Senior Systems Administrator/Helpdesk Engineer

Description Leidos is seeking a highly motivated Senior Systems Administrator/Help Desk Engineer to support a cutting‑edge Agile software development program, Chinook, for an Intelligence Community customer. In this critical role, you’ll ensure the stability, security, and performance of the environments that enable mission users and Agile teams to deliver capabilities that directly support national security. As a trusted technical expert, you’ll solve complex challenges, optimize infrastructure, support cloud and on‑premises environments, and provide exceptional customer service to users operating in fast‑paced, mission‑critical settings. Working side‑by‑side with software engineers, DevSecOps specialists, cybersecurity professionals, and customer stakeholders, you’ll play a key role in maintaining reliable operations while continuously improving the user experience. In a highly classified environment, you will lead systems operations, ensuring availability, reliability, and security of infrastructure supporting geospatial analytics, software development, and data services. Note: Candidate must commit to covering either the morning shift starting at 6 AM EST or the evening shift working until 10 PM EST. Position may be performed in the following locations. Program’s primary work location is Gaithersburg, MD. Gaithersburg, MD Alexandria, VA Chantilly, VA Englewood, CO St. Louis, MO Tucson, AZ Clearance Level Required Active Top Secret/SCI with the ability to successfully pass a Polygraph examination. Primary Responsibilities Lead system administration for Linux and Windows‑based systems in secure, mission‑critical environments. Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and end‑user technical issues while serving as the primary IT support contact, managing support tickets through resolution, and delivering responsive customer service. Architect and manage complex server, storage, and virtualization infrastructure (VMware, KVM). Perform OS installation, configuration, hardening, and patching in compliance with DoD STIGs and agency policies. Monitor and tune system performance, conduct root cause analysis, and resolve complex issues quickly and efficiently. Support backup/recovery strategies, disaster recovery plans, and continuity of operations. Oversee and maintain automation scripts and infrastructure as code (Ansible, PowerShell, Bash, etc.). Maintain system documentation, configuration baselines, and support CM and RM activities. Lead and support deployment of system enhancements and modernization initiatives for the Chinook program. Collaborate with cybersecurity, network engineering, and software development teams to ensure system compliance and performance. Participate in security audits, incident response, and operational readiness activities. Basic Qualifications US citizenship is required per contract. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or related discipline and 8–12 years of prior relevant experience, or Master’s with 6–10 years of prior relevant experience. DoD 8570 IAT Level II or III certification (e.g., Security+ CE, CASP+, CISSP). Experience with cloud platforms (AWS GovCloud, Azure Government) and hybrid cloud environments. Experience with Linux (Red Hat Enterprise Linux or CentOS) and Windows Server platform system administration. Proficiency with virtualization platforms (VMware, KVM) and management tools. Experience with automation and scripting (Ansible, Bash, PowerShell, Python). Familiarity with STIG compliance, system hardening, ACAS scans, and RMF processes. Strong understanding of enterprise networking, identity/access management, and storage concepts. Proven ability to troubleshoot, document, and lead systems‑related projects independently. Experience supporting IC or DoD classified environments. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting our customer or GEOINT missions. Familiarity with DevOps tools and pipelines (Git, Jenkins, Docker, etc.). Knowledge of enterprise backup solutions, DNS, DHCP, Active Directory, and PKI. Pay Range $92,300.00 – $166,850.00 Commitment to Non‑Discrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr