Infrastructure & Systems Administrator

Job Description

Job Description

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.Who We Are:

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a 'one-to-many' system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.

What You'll Do:

Space Kinetic is seeking a mid-level Infrastructure & Systems Administrator to maintain and scale the infrastructure supporting our engineering, manufacturing, simulation, secure collaboration, and export-controlled programs. You will work across servers, virtualization, networking, cybersecurity, Microsoft 365, and engineering systems. The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex technical problems and building secure, scalable infrastructure in a fast-moving environment.

Job Responsibilities:

• Administer Windows Server and Linux environments, including Ubuntu or Rocky Linux.
• Manage Proxmox virtualization environments and deploy new infrastructure as the company grows.
• Support Microsoft 365, Entra ID, Intune, Exchange Online, and SharePoint.
• Configure and troubleshoot switches, routing, VLANs, VPNs, wireless networks, and related network infrastructure.
• Support cybersecurity initiatives and CMMC Level 2 compliance efforts.
• Monitor infrastructure health, resolve technical issues, respond to incidents, and maintain system availability.
• Manage backups, disaster recovery processes, engineering applications, technical infrastructure, and license servers.
• Automate administrative tasks using PowerShell or Bash while maintaining infrastructure documentation and operating procedures.

What It Takes:

• Associate or bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, networking, information systems, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. A degree is not required for candidates with substantial relevant experience.
• 3 to 7 years of experience supporting IT infrastructure or enterprise systems.
• Experience administering Windows Server and Linux environments, preferably Ubuntu or Rocky Linux.
• Hands-on experience with Microsoft 365, Entra ID, Intune, Exchange Online, and SharePoint.
• Working knowledge of TCP/IP, VLANs, VPNs, routing, switches, and wireless networks.
• Experience with virtualization platforms, preferably Proxmox, as well as backup, disaster recovery, and infrastructure-monitoring technologies.
• Proficiency with PowerShell, Bash, or similar scripting tools.

What We'd Love:

• Graduates of CAE-CD programs designated by the NSA and CISA are encouraged to apply.
• Microsoft, Linux, or CompTIA Security+ certifications.
• Experience supporting aerospace, engineering, CAD, or manufacturing environments.
• Experience with Docker, Kubernetes, Python, or Ansible.
• Familiarity with NIST SP 800-171, CMMC, or other regulated security frameworks.

Where You'll Be:

The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA. Domestic travel may be required, approximately 25% to 40% of the year.

What We Offer:

• Equity-Based Compensation
• Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure

ITAR Requirements:

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.

The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data.  Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity. 

Pay Range

$80,000—$100,000 USD