IT SysAdmin

Desktop Services System Administrator
Location : Fort Meade, MD
Category: Technical
Clearance Requirement: Active TS/SCI with Polygraph (most recent poly within the last 7 years)
Certification Requirement: DoD 8570 IAT II (Required)
Education Requirement: B.S in technical discipline
Experience Requirement: Level I: 3+ with degree, 8+ without degree. Level II: 5+ with degree, 10+ without.
Compensation Range: $83,000-$158,000 Position Overview
TAP Engineering is seeking System Administrators at the I and II levels to provide Infrastructure Server and Desktop Sustainment services in support of High Performance Computing (HPC) environments. This role enhances and complements HPC sustainment capabilities across two geographically dispersed locations , supporting mission-critical desktop, workstation, and peripheral infrastructure.
This position focuses on the deployment, integration, configuration, tuning, and operational support of custom Linux-based workstations, peripheral hardware, and desktop ecosystem components in a secure, fast-paced environment. Technical Environment
Custom Linux-based workstations and desktops
Enterprise desktop and workstation hardware
Monitors and display systems
KVM switches
Peripheral devices (keyboards, mice, media converters, etc.)
Printers and multifunction devices (HP, Dell, Lexmark, etc.)
Structured cabling (Ethernet, fiber, serial, VGA, DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.)
Client/server, storage, and network devices
Linux, Unix, and Windows operating systems
Key Responsibilities (All Levels)
Provide support for the implementation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of IT systems
Support installation, deployment, integration, configuration, tuning, and operational support of workstation hardware and peripherals
Perform day-to-day system operations, monitoring, and incident response
Manage daily configuration and operational health of desktop systems
Assist users with accessing and using IT systems
Provide Tier 1 and Tier 2 support based on experience level
Escalate issues appropriately and communicate status to Government and internal stakeholders
Support dispatch operations for hardware issues and remain involved through resolution
Optimize system performance and resource utilization
Support system capacity analysis and planning
Maintain accurate system documentation and operational records
Follow Government-defined ticketing, change management, and operational procedures
Level Differentiation
System Administrator I (Entry-Level)
Focus: Execution, Tier 1 support, and foundational desktop operations
Performs routine desktop and workstation support tasks under supervision
Provides Tier 1 (Help Desk) support and basic Tier 2 escalation assistance
Supports installation and configuration of workstations and peripherals
Assists users with system access and basic troubleshooting
Performs standard maintenance, patching, and documentation
Supports cabling, hardware setup, and device integration
Escalates complex issues to mid-level administrators
System Administrator II (Mid-Level)
Focus: Independent operations, Tier 2 ownership, and advanced troubleshooting
Independently administers desktop and workstation environments
Provides Tier 1 and Tier 2 support, including advanced troubleshooting
Performs root cause analysis and remediation
Manages daily configuration and operational health of desktop systems
Supports Linux, Unix, and Windows desktop environments
Executes system deployments, upgrades, and transitions
Provides detailed analysis and feedback for escalated incidents
Supports dispatch operations for hardware-related issues
Configures and manages operating systems and device integrations
Implements system enhancements to improve reliability and performance
Serves as an escalation point for junior administrators
Required Qualifications (All Levels)
Active TS/SCI clearance with Full Scope Polygraph (most recent poly within the last 7 years)
DoD 8570 IAT II certification
Experience supporting desktop or workstation environments
Experience supporting Linux-based or Unix-based systems
Familiarity with enterprise IT infrastructure
Strong troubleshooting and documentation skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work effectively in a 24/7 operational environment (as required)
Ability to collaborate with Government and contractor personnel
TAP Engineering offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
Paid Time Off: 15–25 days annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays (never use-or-lose)
Retirement: Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through match and profit sharing
Medical Coverage: Free medical insurance for employees, with optional buy-up plans for dependents
Dental & Vision: Employer-paid plans with optional enhancements
Insurance Coverage: Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care FSAs
Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework
Additional Benefits: Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support
Performance-Based Rewards: Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses
Clearance Requirement
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance with Full Scope Polygraph , based on a current Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI/SBI). Clearance and polygraph processing will be completed by the U.S. Government. Factors considered for U.S. Government security clearance eligibility include, but are not limited to:
U.S. citizenship
Favorable criminal history review
Education verification
Drug and substance use review
Credit history review
Subject interview
Additional Information
By submitting your resume for this position, you acknowledge and agree that TAP Engineering may share your resume and related application materials with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for consideration for other available positions.
TAP Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer . All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.