Senior Systems Administrator (Windows & Linux) (5801)

SMX is seeking an experienced Senior, Systems Administrator to support enterprise infrastructure, systems engineering, and development operations within a mission-focused Department of Defense (DoD) environment at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, MD.

This position supports a technical environment that brings together traditional systems administration, virtualization, containerized applications, infrastructure automation, and cybersecurity compliance. The selected candidate will be responsible for maintaining secure and reliable infrastructure while supporting development, integration, and operational requirements across multiple platforms.

The ideal candidate brings a strong background in Windows and Linux administration, experience supporting development and testing environments, and the ability to balance operational security requirements with the need for efficient technical delivery. This role requires someone who can independently troubleshoot complex infrastructure challenges, identify opportunities for automation, and collaborate with developers, engineers, and cybersecurity personnel to maintain mission readiness.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Administer, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows Server and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) environments, including core infrastructure services such as Active Directory, IDM, Group Policy, DNS, and DHCP

Support enterprise virtualization, cloud infrastructure, and containerized applications using technologies such as VMware, OpenStack, Docker, Podman, and Kubernetes

Perform system provisioning, configuration management, patching, upgrades, and maintenance to ensure infrastructure availability, security, and performance

Develop and maintain automation solutions using PowerShell, Python, Bash, and other scripting technologies to streamline administrative processes and reduce manual effort

Support development, integration, testing, and simulation environments, working closely with engineering and development teams to address infrastructure requirements and technical challenges

Implement and maintain DoD cybersecurity requirements, including STIG compliance, system hardening, vulnerability management, and ACAS findings remediation

Support RMF and ATO activities through security documentation, continuous monitoring, configuration validation, and coordination with cybersecurity personnel

Perform hardware and software troubleshooting, system imaging, backup and recovery, and incident resolution across physical and virtual infrastructure

Collaborate with infrastructure, development, and cybersecurity teams to implement technical solutions that balance operational requirements, system security, and mission objectives

Maintain technical documentation, support infrastructure improvements, and identify opportunities to improve system reliability, automation, and operational efficiency

Required Skills & Experience

Clearance required: Top Secret

Security+ CE certification or equivalent DoD 8570/8140 qualification

Advanced experience administering Windows Server and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) environments

Strong knowledge of Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, and enterprise networking. Experience with virtualization, cloud infrastructure, and container technologies such as VMware, OpenStack, Docker, Podman, or Kubernetes

Proficiency in scripting and automation using PowerShell, Python, Bash, or similar tools

Experience with DoD cybersecurity requirements, including STIGs, ACAS, RMF, and ATO processes

Experience supporting system patching, troubleshooting, configuration management, and backup/recovery operations

Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills, particularly in development and mission-critical environments

Desired Skills & Experience

Experience administering OpenStack environments and advanced VMware virtualization infrastructure. Hands-on experience with Kubernetes orchestration and container management

Familiarity with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools such as Ansible, Terraform, and Git. Experience supporting DevSecOps pipelines, automated deployments, and software development environments

Knowledge of DoD RMF processes, eMASS, NIST SP 800-53, and POA&M management

Experience supporting enterprise storage, networking, and distributed infrastructure

Familiarity with system imaging, disaster recovery, and infrastructure modernization initiatives

Previous experience supporting DoD, Navy, or other government IT environments

#cjpost #LI-ONSITE

The SMX salary determination process takes into account a number of factors, including but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories, relevant prior work experience, specific skills, education and certifications. At SMX, one of our Core Values is to Invest in Our People so we offer a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits. Some key components of our robust benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement.

The proposed salary for this position is:

$130,000 — $185,000 USD

At SMX®, we are a team of technical and domain experts dedicated to enabling your mission. From priority national security initiatives for the DoD to highly assured and compliant solutions for healthcare, we understand that digital transformation is key to your future success.

We share your vision for the future and strive to accelerate your impact on the world. We bring both cutting edge technology and an expansive view of what’s possible to every engagement. Our delivery model and unique approaches harness our deep technical and domain knowledge, providing forward-looking insights and practical solutions to power secure mission acceleration.

SMX is an Equal Opportunity employer including disabilities and veterans.

Selected applicant may be subject to a background investigation and/or education verification.

SMX does not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization or immigration related support for this position (i.e. H1B, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, TN, E-2, E-3, L-1 and O-1, or any EADs or other forms of work authorization that require immigration support from an employer).