Systems Administrator

System AdministratorThe System Administrator operates and supports NIAID end-user device management, automation, software-distribution, endpoint-security, and virtual desktop systems. The administrator performs daily system health monitoring, configuration, patching, troubleshooting, scripting, access support, and compliance reporting across a diverse environment supporting Windows, macOS, Linux, scientific applications, and mobile devices. The role supports systems such as Microsoft MECM/SCCM, JAMF Pro, Absolute, SaltStack, Citrix, Microsoft Software Center, remote-support tools, and related endpoint-management technologies.Key ResponsibilitiesPerform daily administration, configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting of NIAID endpoint-management and software-distribution systems.Monitor device check-in, client health, agent communication, deployment success, patch compliance, system performance, and error conditions.Package, test, deploy, and validate operating-system and application updates using approved NIAID tools.Create and maintain automated software installation packages, scripts, task sequences, configuration profiles, and device-management policies.Use PowerShell, Shell Scripting and other approved scripting technologies to automate repetitive administration, reporting, installation, and remediation tasks.Investigate failed deployments, non-communicating devices, configuration drift, policy conflicts, and software-installation errors.Coordinate with Field Support and Help Desk personnel to resolve endpoint issues requiring hands-on support.Maintain approved software catalog entries, versions, installation methods, deployment groups, and support documentation.Support Windows, macOS, Linux, Microsoft 365, Chrome, Edge, Safari, VPN, Wi-Fi, virtual desktops, and approved biomedical research applications.Assist with testing new operating-system releases, applications, hardware configurations, drivers, peripherals, and management-platform updates.Implement approved security waivers and exceptions and track associated devices, conditions, expiration dates, and remediation actions.Support virtual desktop administration, application provisioning, patching, capacity monitoring, and user-access troubleshooting.Maintain technical documentation, operating procedures, implementation records, test results, rollback plans, and troubleshooting guides.Support device-related security investigations, vulnerability remediation, log collection, containment, and recovery actions.Participate in planned after-hours deployments, patching, or maintenance when required.Required QualificationsMinimum of 4 years of system administration, endpoint engineering, desktop engineering, or related experience.Hands-on experience with at least one enterprise endpoint-management platform such as MECM/SCCM or JAMF Pro.Experience with Windows and at least one additional platform such as macOS, Linux.Experience with application packaging, patch deployment, device compliance, troubleshooting, and scripting.Working knowledge of TCP/IP, Wi-Fi, VPN, remote support, identity integration, encryption, and endpoint security.Ability to document technical procedures and communicate effectively with engineering teams, field technicians, and customers.Preferred ExperienceMECM/SCCM, JAMF Pro, Absolute, SaltStack, Citrix, PowerShell, Shell Scripting, Microsoft Software Center, and Bomgar.Supporting scientific instruments, biomedical research applications, or specialized laboratory endpoints.Federal endpoint-security, vulnerability-remediation, and configuration-compliance requirements.Microsoft, Apple, Citrix, Jamf, ITIL, or related technical certification.