Classified Systems Administrator, III

Job Type Regular Position Description The Classified Systems Administrator, III is responsible for the administration, evaluation, and optimization of classified servers, network infrastructures, and communication systems operating within secure, regulated environments. Serving as a senior technical contributor, this role independently maintains mission‑critical systems, ensures operational effectiveness, and supports infrastructure projects while adhering to federal security and compliance standards. The position requires strong expertise in either Windows or Linux systems and works closely with cybersecurity, network, and program teams to ensure the reliability, performance, and security of classified IT operations. Administer, configure, and maintain classified servers, LAN/WAN networks, and secure communications systems to ensure high availability, performance, and operational continuity. Proactively monitor system health, logs, and alerts; troubleshoot hardware, software, and network issues; and elevate complex enterprise‑level problems when needed. Execute system updates, patch management, backups, and disaster recovery procedures in accordance with security requirements and organizational standards. Support infrastructure modernization efforts, including system upgrades, migrations, and deployments within classified environments. Assist in the design, configuration, implementation, and documentation of secure IT solutions that meet operational and mission needs. Implement and maintain security controls for classified systems aligned with NIST 800‑series, STIGs, ICD 503, RMF, and organizational policies. Support vulnerability remediation, accreditation and validation activities, audit readiness, and formal change‑management/control processes. Analyze system and network performance to identify capacity or reliability gaps and recommend improvements that enhance scalability, resilience, security, and cost‑effectiveness. Partner closely with cybersecurity, engineering, program, and IT teams to deliver compliant, secure, and reliable technical solutions. Contribute to technical documentation, process improvements, knowledge sharing, and mentoring or training for team members and users as needed. Perform other related duties in support of classified program and operational objectives. Qualifications Knowledge of PC hardware, software, and network systems for Windows and Linux. Proficiency in administration, troubleshooting, and performance tuning of classified servers, networks, and storage. Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills for moderately complex technical issues. Ability to plan and execute technical solutions independently while escalating enterprise‑level issues appropriately. Effective communication and collaboration skills with technical teams, management, and functional departments. Knowledge of backup, disaster recovery, and secure communications practices in classified environments. Must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Linux OS experience is preferred. Understanding of NIST 800‑171 and CMMC requirements. Experience working in classified cloud solutions. Experience conducting audit of classified systems. Advanced troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills for completing network, system, and application issues in a classified environment. Experience with DCSA and IC Community System assessments. Education Requirements Associate's degree is required. BA/BS preferred. Experience Minimum of 5 years' experience in classified network systems is required. 9 years of experience is preferred. Security Clearance This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain active TS/SCI access with Poly, along with the technical certifications. Location This position is located in RAND's Washington D.C. office (Arlington, VA) and will require a presence of 5 days per week, Monday‑Friday. The workday is 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. EST and the role is 100% in‑office with potential on‑call duties as needed. Salary Range $88,000 - $130,900 RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate’s work experience, education/training, skills, expertise; and internal equity. The salary range includes base pay plus RAND’s sabbatic pay (additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken). In addition, RAND provides strong benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, paid time‑off and more. Equal Opportunity Employer Equal Opportunity Employer #J-18808-Ljbffr RAND