Senior Systems Administrator

Senior Systems AdministratorThis Senior Systems Administrator role supports mission performance and security systems within research, development, and defense integration labs. You will design, implement, and maintain secure, Linux-centric infrastructure across standalone, on-premises, virtualized, and cloud-based environments. The position focuses on enabling engineers and developers to build, integrate, and test complex mission systems in a highly secure, classified setting. This is an on-site, hands-on role in Colorado Springs, CO, ideal for a proactive problem solver who thrives in dynamic lab environments and enjoys owning critical lab and infrastructure systems that support cutting-edge national security space technology.ResponsibilitiesPlan, design, deploy, configure, and maintain secure lab environments that support software, hardware, and network integration efforts.Install, configure, and troubleshoot servers, workstations, and storage systems used in mission-critical labs.Support integration of complex systems, including embedded hardware, FPGA-based platforms, simulation environments, and test platforms.Create and manage system baselines, containers, virtualized environments, directory objects, configurations, and documentation in alignment with DoD RMF, ATO, and CMMC security and compliance requirements.Provide hands-on support for system builds, upgrades, patching, and troubleshooting in lab and test environments.Develop and maintain automation scripts and tools to streamline system provisioning, configuration, and maintenance.Monitor system performance, reliability, and security posture, and proactively identify and resolve issues before they impact mission activities.Maintain inventory and lifecycle management of lab assets, infrastructure components, and related documentation.Support incident response activities, audit readiness, and compliance inspections in CUI and classified environments.Collaborate closely with engineers, developers, and project leadership to ensure lab infrastructure meets evolving mission and security requirements.Apply security controls, including STIGs, SCAP, patching, and hardening, to maintain compliant and resilient systems.Support integration of systems across various operating systems, interfaces, and virtualized platforms such as VMware and ProxMox.Contribute to continuous improvement of lab processes, automation, and documentation to enhance operational efficiency and reliability.Essential Skills8+ years of experience in systems administration in complex, mission-critical environments, including at least 3+ years of DoD or Federal work experience.Strong hands-on experience with Linux-based systems administration in virtualized environments such as VMware or ProxMox.Demonstrated experience working in CUI and classified environments with a strong understanding of security protocols and operational constraints.Proficiency with Linux software maintenance using package management tools and compilation from source when required.Experience integrating hardware and software systems across various operating systems and interfaces.Solid networking fundamentals, including routing, switching, firewalls, and VLANs, to support secure lab and test network integration.Experience with storage systems and backup solutions in mission-critical environments.Proficiency with scripting and automation tools such as Bash, PowerShell, and Python to streamline provisioning, configuration, and maintenance.Experience implementing and maintaining security controls including STIGs, SCAP, patching, hardening, and CMMC requirements.Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple systems, configurations, and priorities simultaneously.Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities in dynamic lab and test environments.Demonstrated hunger to learn and develop cross-functional skills.Ability to obtain a Secret DoD Security Clearance.Preferred: Active DoD Security Clearance at the Secret or Top Secret level, with eligibility for SCI as required.United States citizenship.Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.Linux certifications such as RHCSA, LFCS, or Linux+.DCWF Work Role 451 compliant.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience with FPGA-based or embedded systems integration in lab environments.Experience supporting defense or aerospace integration labs or test environments.Familiarity with DevSecOps practices and CI/CD pipeline infrastructure.Experience with containerization technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes.Knowledge of configuration management tools such as Ansible, Puppet, or similar platforms.Experience administering virtualized environments including VMware and ProxMox, with a focus on provisioning and lifecycle management.Familiarity with automation frameworks and infrastructure-as-code concepts to enhance lab repeatability and reliability.Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary engineering and security teams.Interest in working within a mission-driven nonprofit R&D environment focused on national security space technology.Work EnvironmentThis is a fully on-site position based in Colorado Springs, CO, working directly in research, development, and defense systems integration labs that support mission performance and security systems. The environment is CUI-aware and includes classified lab spaces, requiring disciplined adherence to security protocols and operational procedures. You will work hands-on with Linux-based systems, virtualized platforms such as VMware and ProxMox, networking equipment, storage systems, and automation tools including Bash, PowerShell, Python, and configuration management technologies like Ansible or Puppet. The role involves close collaboration with engineers and developers in a highly technical, team-oriented setting. Occasional travel of approximately 10% to CONUS and Hawaii locations is required to support distributed lab and test environments. The organization promotes an equal opportunity workplace and a mission-driven culture focused on advancing secure, space-based solutions in support of national security.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Colorado Springs, CO.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $95000.00 - $190000.00/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 22, 2026. Actalent