Lead Systems Administrator

Lead Systems Administrator

KBR — Delivering Solutions, Changing the World.

KBR is a global leader in delivering technology-driven, mission-critical, and sustainable solutions that truly matter. For over a century, we have powered bold missions across defense, space, industry, and government through our two core business lines Mission Technology Solutions and Sustainable Technology Solutions. With nearly 38,000 talented people operating in more than 80 countries, we thrive on a culture built on safety, integrity, and teamwork. At KBR, we empower our people to solve the world's toughest challenges and create lasting value for communities and the planet. We don't just deliver results, we deliver game-changing solutions, innovative technology, deep domain expertise, and cutting-edge technologies.

KBR is seeking a Lead Systems Administrator to join our Corporate IT team in Beavercreek, OH and provide technical leadership in the administration, optimization, and strategic oversight of enterprise systems, including servers, desktops, storage platforms, and supporting infrastructure. In this role, you will serve as a team lead, ensuring the stability, security, and performance of mission-critical environments while coordinating daily operations and guiding system administrators. You will drive system modernization, oversee upgrades and lifecycle management, and implement best practices across Windows and Linux environments, while collaborating with network, cybersecurity, and support teams to deliver scalable, secure solutions. This position requires a balance of hands-on technical expertise and leadership, with responsibility for improving processes, mentoring team members, and influencing IT strategy in a dynamic, high-impact environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the administration, maintenance, and optimization of enterprise systems, including servers, desktops, storage devices, and peripheral equipment
• Serve as the technical lead and primary escalation point for complex system, infrastructure, and performance issues
• Oversee OS and software upgrades, patching strategies, and lifecycle management to maintain a secure and compliant environment
• Provide hands-on support for advanced troubleshooting across Windows, Linux, and integrated environments
• Coordinate and prioritize team activities, ensuring timely execution of operational tasks and project deliverables
• Design, implement, and lead infrastructure improvements, system enhancements, and modernization initiatives
• Manage and validate backup, recovery, and disaster recovery processes to ensure business continuity
• Monitor system performance, identify risks, and proactively implement security and optimization measures
• Collaborate with network, cybersecurity, and IT support teams to support enterprise-wide initiatives and system integrations
• Partner with vendors and third-party providers to resolve complex issues and support system enhancements
• Provide clear communication and status updates to stakeholders, leadership, and customers
• Develop, standardize, and improve system administration processes, procedures, and documentation
• Mentor and guide junior administrators, fostering technical growth and best practices across the team

Basic Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• B.S. Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Systems Engineering, or related field and 8+ years of relevant experience. Additional relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree
• Citizenship & Clearance: Must be a US Citizen. Must have a TS/SCI Clearance with a CI Polygraph or be able to obtain and maintain.
• Certifications: Must have CompTIA Security+ CE, CISSP, or IAW DoD 8570 certifications

Technical Expertise:

• Advanced, hands-on experience with Windows and Linux system administration, including Windows Server, Active Directory, Group Policy, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux
• Strong experience with virtualization technologies (VMware) and enterprise storage and backup solutions
• Deep understanding of system patching, security hardening, and compliance frameworks (e.g., HBSS)
• Proven ability to design, evaluate, and implement IT infrastructure solutions in complex environments
• Expertise in troubleshooting and resolving high-impact system, hardware, and network issues
• Experience leading system upgrades, migrations, and infrastructure transformation initiatives
• Strong collaboration skills with the ability to act as a technical liaison between teams and stakeholders
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a strong customer-focused mindset

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with COMSEC equipment, including TACLANE KG175 and KG250 Secure Key Loaders
• Familiarity with the DoD Risk Management Framework (RMF) and configuring systems for DoD Special Access Programs in accordance with JSIG requirements
• Hands-on experience with machine virtualization, including transitioning legacy products to virtualized environments
• Experience with vulnerability scanning tools and implementing mitigation strategies
• Knowledge of advanced security practices and compliance standards in a government or defense IT environment
• Prior experience leading small teams or projects with significant complexity and risk

Additional Compensation: KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short term incentives, long term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

Benefits: KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include a 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.