IT Specialist – Service Desk Support and Systems Administrator

Overview

Lynker is seeking a sharp IT Specialist - Service Desk and Systems Administrator, for a long term contract supporting the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) at the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). Space Weather refers to variations in the space environment between the sun and Earth that can affect technologies in space and on Earth. Space weather is primarily driven by solar storm phenomena that include coronal mass ejections, solar flares, solar particle events and solar wind. These phenomena that are directed toward Earth are potential drivers of space weather events that can disrupt communications, satellite and airline operations, navigation and surveying systems, as well as electric power grids across large geographic regions on Earth. Space weather is a global issue and an understanding of solar storm phenomena is an important component to SWPC’s success at developing accurate space weather forecasts (event onset, location, duration, and magnitude). 

 

The incumbent provides advanced technical support for users at SWPC. This role serves as the primary resolution point for complex IT issues beyond user-reported incident support, ensuring secure, reliable, and effective troubleshooting and resolution of hardware, software, and network problems. The technician also performs Windows Systems Administration tasks, supports operational continuity for the 24/7 forecast mission, and ensures compliance with IT security policies and configuration management standards. The position ensures secure, reliable, and responsive IT support across SWPC’s desktop computing environment, while also assisting with broad IT infrastructure initiatives.

 

The incumbent manages tasks from an established Help Desk trouble-ticketing system, administering email and endpoint encryption platforms, and supporting inventory and compliance requirements. This position requires strong technical troubleshooting capabilities, excellent communication skills, and a customer-focused approach to problem resolution.  The Ideal IT Specialist - Service Desk Support and Systems Administrator will be located in the Boulder, CO, however the role could operate remotely for the right candidate. 

Responsibilities

The work will primarily include the following responsibilities:

• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve user-reported technical problems involving workstations, laptops, mobile devices, and peripherals.
• Respond to and resolve advanced Service Desk tickets within defined Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and to the highest thresholds of customer satisfaction.
• Perform advanced user account management in Active Directory and Google Workspace, including permissions, groups, and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
• Perform client-system and server patching, upgrades, imaging, and configuration management for Windows environments.
• Coordinate and execute desktop, laptop, and mobile device provisioning, including end-point security and configuration management agent installation (NBFS, MAAS360, Manage Engine.)
• Support the Space Weather Forecast Office (SWFO) by maintaining National Critical Systems (NCS) and Business Enterprise System (BES) desktops, laptops, and telephony platforms to ensure 24/7 operational availability.
• Perform asset management activities including: inventory control, labeling, tracking, receiving, sanitization, decommissioning, and reporting of service-tagged equipment.
• Provide user training, education, and advanced guidance on system access, platform and OS usage, cybersecurity, and best practices.
• Install and support networked audio/visual systems for conference rooms, including cameras, projection devices, networked computers, and telephony.
• Assist senior system administrators with network authentication, server troubleshooting, and compliance with security audits.
• Research and develop technical specifications, provide cost quotes, and validate equipment orders to support procurement.
• Support physical movement, deployment, and decommissioning of hardware assets; assist the Property Manager with inventory tracking and asset audits.
• Follow documented technical task procedures, applying good judgment and best practices to complete assignments independently or under general guidance.

Qualifications

At least a Bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science, space physics, geophysics, engineering, computer science, or mathematics from an accredited institution and at least 5 years of experience in related areas.

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Requirements:

• At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience providing IT helpdesk support and systems administration in a Windows environment.
• Strong worki