Systems Administrator at ValidaTek in Washington, DC

Company Overview

At ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our success starts and ends with our people, so we built a company where great people can do great things, with the resources and autonomy to make decisions that transform organizations. We operate as one team of diverse people, united by a passion for continuous growth and optimization. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation. www.validatek.com

Summary

We are seeking a Systems Administrator who will be responsible for supporting and maintaining enterprise IT systems within a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) environment. This role provides hands-on technical support across multiple applications, operating systems, networks, and infrastructure platforms. Responsibilities include system administration, troubleshooting, performance monitoring, security hardening, automation, and operational support of both Windows and Linux environments.

The selected candidate will support the implementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of IT systems and infrastructure while ensuring system reliability, security, and compliance with organizational standards. The Systems Administrator will provide day-to-day operational support, monitor system health, resolve technical issues, and support escalation activities for both internal customers and agency management.

Responsibilities

• Administering and supporting enterprise Linux environments, including Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
• Developing and maintaining Bash scripts to automate repeatable administrative tasks
• Utilizing PowerShell to automate Windows system administration and common operational functions
• Implementing and maintaining operating system security hardening standards, including STIGs, OSCAP, and CIS Benchmarks
• Managing Microsoft Active Directory environments, including Group Policy Object (GPO) implementation and enforcement of security configurations
• Supporting SCCM methodologies and deploying updates using WSUS and PowerShell
• Performing vulnerability management and remediation using tools such as Tenable.SC, SecurityCenter, and Nessus
• Monitoring, maintaining, and tuning systems to ensure optimal performance and availability
• Troubleshooting and resolving escalated server, infrastructure, and application issues
• Supporting hardware, software, and operating system installations, upgrades, and patch management activities
• Conducting routine audits to ensure compliance with established standards, security policies, and configuration baselines
• Developing and maintaining system documentation, configuration libraries, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Implementing system enhancements to improve reliability, performance, and operational efficiency
• Coordinating with Help Desk, Engineering, Security, and Operations teams to support enterprise IT initiatives

Qualifications

• Active DoD Secret clearance
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, and a minimum of five (5) years of Systems Administration experience; equivalent combinations of education, certifications, and experience may be considered
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience supporting IT operations or providing IT-related customer service in large-scale, multi-disciplinary technology environments involving virtual servers and cloud-based services
• Hands-on experience with one or more of the following technologies:
  • Microsoft Windows Server
  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
  • VMware vSphere (ESXi) and VMware Workstation
  • Microsoft SQL Server
  • Oracle DBMS
  • Active Directory and LDAP
  • SharePoint
  • Network switches and firewalls
  • McAfee or equivalent enterprise security products
• Strong troubleshooting, communication, and documentation skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment
• Experience supporting secure federal or government IT environments preferred

Posted Min Pay Rate

USD $100,000.00/Yr.

Posted Max Pay Rate

USD $120,000.00/Yr.

Salary Disclosure

Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, geographic location, contract affordability, internal equity, education, and certifications. The upper end of the salary range may be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated tenure with the company, seniority, and proven excellent performance. This includes factors such as education, certifications, and extensive/unique experience beyond what is required.

EEO Statement

ValidaTek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to verify authorization to work in the United States. Offers of employment will be contingent upon passing a post-offer background check.