IT Systems and Communications Technician I

Job Title: IT Systems and Communications Technician I Job Type: Full Time/Contract Location: Norfolk, VA Clearance: Secret Who is Ardalyst Defense, LLC? Ardalyst Defense, LLC is a Maryland, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) that provides engineering services and technical, analytical and cyberspace operations services to integrated U.S. government agency operations. Ardalyst personnel have decades of direct operations experience in full-scope Cyberspace Operations - at the Service, Joint and National Agency levels. Are you an Ardalyst? Ardalyst is a mashup of Ardent, meaning "passionate" and Catalyst, meaning "change agent." To be an Ardalyst means to be passionate about creating and sustaining meaningful transformations. Speak your mind – Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do and our belief in diversity of people supports our goal for diversity in thought. Ardalysts (that's just what we call ourselves) come ready to contribute and find solutions. Focus On Your Strengths – We invest in understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each employee so that you can shine at what YOU do best. See Yourself Grow – Ardalysts have cited being encouraged to take educated risk, kick-start progress, and advance their skills as one of their favorite things about working at Ardalyst and we’re determined to keep it that way. Job Description We are seeking an IT Technician I to support our Navy customer in the Norfolk, VA area. In this role, you will assist with the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and lifecycle support of shipboard IT, communications, and network systems. You will work under the guidance of senior technical personnel to support system operations, cybersecurity compliance, user support, and crew training on LAN and IT equipment as required. Duties and Responsibilities Perform or assist with the installation, configuration, testing, maintenance, and lifecycle replacement of shipboard IT, communications, and network equipment under the supervision of senior technical personnel. Install, image, configure, patch, upgrade, and maintain Windows 10/11 workstations, laptops, peripherals, network devices, and communications equipment in accordance with approved technical and cybersecurity procedures. Assist with the deployment, operation, sustainment, and upgrade of Local Area Networks (LANs), virtualization platforms, communications systems, and other IT infrastructure supporting Navy operational requirements. Support Information Assurance (IA) and cybersecurity compliance activities through patch management, vulnerability scanning, STIG implementation, ACAS/Nessus assessments, remediation efforts, and adherence to applicable DoD and Navy policies. Assist with the installation, testing, certification, labeling, and maintenance of copper and fiber-optic cabling infrastructure. Work collaboratively with government personnel, shipboard crews, contractors, and support teams to maintain system operability, compliance, and mission readiness. Document technical issues, troubleshooting activities, root causes, corrective actions, and lessons learned in accordance with established processes. Prepare and submit daily status reports, work accomplishment summaries, inventory reports, and other customer-required documentation. Travel as required to customer sites, naval installations, shipyards, and vessels in support of installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities. Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisors, team leads, or program management. Required Skills/Qualifications Associate's degree in Information Technology, Networking, Cybersecurity, or a related field. Active DoD Secret Security Clearance required. Must possess an IAT Level I certification (e.g., Security+ CE) in accordance with DoD requirements and possess (or be able to obtain) required operating system certifications supporting Navy systems. One (1) year of experience supporting IT systems, networks, communications equipment, or help desk operations. Experience with Microsoft Windows operating systems, system imaging, patch management, hardware/software troubleshooting, and peripheral device support. Working knowledge of networking technologies, including TCP/IP, routers, switches, network connectivity, and communications systems. Familiarity with cybersecurity and Information Assurance (IA) principles, including vulnerability management, STIG compliance, and system accreditation requirements. Working knowledge of Windows Server, Active Directory, virtualization technologies (VMware or Hyper-V), and ACAS/Nessus tools preferred. Experience with Cat5/Cat6 and fiber-optic cabling, and shipboard or DoD environments preferred. Ability to communicate effectively, follow technical documentation and procedures, work under supervision, and collaborate with customers and team members. Benefits Competitive salary commensurate with experience Paid Time Off (PTO) Paid Holidays 401(k) Retirement Plan Health, Dental, Vision and Life insurance Short Term and Long-Term Disability insurance Monetary assistance with training and certifications What Ardalyst Offers You The opportunity to support meaningful Navy missions while working alongside experienced IT, engineering, and cybersecurity professionals. A collaborative environment where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas, expand their technical skills, and take on new challenges. Exposure to a wide range of technologies, systems, and operational environments that support professional growth and hands‑on experience. Opportunities for training, certification development, and continued learning. Disclaimer Ardalyst Defense, LLC is an EOE that empowers employees, no matter their race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic—to meet and exceed customer expectations and thrive in a collaborative and dynamic work environment. #J-18808-Ljbffr Gilder Search Group