Senior Systems Administrator

Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions. 

Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a Senior Systems Administrator to own and operate PDW’s core IT infrastructure across on-premise and cloud environments. This role is responsible for the reliability, security, and performance of Linux systems, virtualization platforms, and supporting Microsoft services (Microsoft 365 and Azure), and serves as the escalation point for complex system issues beyond Tier 2 support.

What You’ll Do

• Own Linux systems across on-premise and cloud environments, ensuring performance, reliability, and uptime.
• Manage virtual infrastructure (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V), including host configuration and capacity planning.
• Enforce secure system baselines through patching, configuration management, and system hardening.
• Serve as the escalation point for complex infrastructure issues; drive root cause analysis and long-term fixes.
• Design, implement, and improve infrastructure to support scalability, performance, and resilience.
• Administer backup and disaster recovery solutions (e.g., Veeam) and validate recovery readiness.
• Manage physical servers, storage, and lab/data center infrastructure.
• Automate system provisioning and management using scripting and configuration tools.
• Partner with Network, Security, and IT Operations teams on secure, integrated solutions.
• Maintain documentation for system architecture, configurations, and procedures.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience administering Linux-based systems in production environments.
• Experience managing virtualized infrastructure (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V) and underlying hardware.
• Strong understanding of system security practices, including patching, hardening, and configuration management.
• Proficiency in scripting or automation (e.g., Bash, Python, Ansible) for system management.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex system issues and serve as a senior escalation point.

Preferred 

• Experience supporting Microsoft 365 and/or Azure environments.
• Experience working in regulated environments (CMMC, NIST 800-171, ITAR, or similar).
• Relevant certifications (e.g., Linux+, RHCSA/RHCE, Security+, VMware or Hyper-V).

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as networking tools and equipment (e.g., rack-mounted gear, cabling, and diagnostic tools). Must be physically capable of installing and maintaining networking hardware in office and lab environments.

Work Environment
This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and may involve exposure to server rooms, networking equipment, and cabling infrastructure. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard works hours for this position are Monday–Friday, with occasional after hours work as operational needs demand. 

Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.
• Employer provided life insurance.