Jr. Systems Administrator

Paragone Solutions, Inc; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Paragone Solutions, Inc in McLean, Virginia is seeking a Junior Systems Administrator responsible for maintaining and supporting Windows-based systems and cloud services. This role involves teamwork with senior staff and includes responsibilities such as troubleshooting, system deployments, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies.

Applicants should have experience in IT support and familiarity with Microsoft technologies, including Azure. This position is ideal for IT professionals looking to grow in a robust technical environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in IT systems administration or technical support.
• Working knowledge of Windows operating systems and Microsoft 365.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Install and troubleshoot Windows workstations and servers.
• Administer user accounts in Microsoft Entra ID and Active Directory.
• Perform patch management and vulnerability remediation.
• Support cybersecurity initiatives.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Windows operating systems

Microsoft 365

Active Directory

Basic networking knowledge

Tools

PowerShell

Microsoft Intune

Job description

The Junior Systems Administrator is responsible for the day-to-day administration, maintenance, and support of Windows-based information systems, cloud services, and end-user computing environments. Working under the guidance of senior technical staff, the Junior Systems Administrator assists with system deployments, user administration, endpoint management, patch management, vulnerability remediation, and security operations while ensuring systems remain reliable, secure, and compliant with organizational policies.

This position provides an excellent opportunity for an early-career IT professional to develop expertise in Microsoft technologies, cybersecurity, cloud administration, and enterprise IT operations.

Primary Responsibilities

• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows workstations, servers, and Microsoft 365 environments
• Administer user accounts in Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD) and Active Directory
• Deploy and manage Windows devices using Microsoft Intune
• Provide technical support for hardware, software, printers, mobile devices, and end users
• Perform operating system updates, patch management, and vulnerability remediation
• Monitor system performance, endpoint compliance, backups, and security alerts
• Assist with server upgrades, migrations, and technology deployments
• Maintain accurate system documentation, asset inventories, and change records
• Support cybersecurity initiatives and compliance with frameworks such as CMMC and NIST SP 800-171
• Collaborate with senior administrators to troubleshoot issues and improve IT operations
• Travel occasionally to customer sites or company locations (approximately one to two trips per year, averaging three days per trip)

Required Qualifications

• Experience in IT systems administration, technical support, or help desk
• Working knowledge of Windows operating systems and Microsoft 365
• Familiarity with Active Directory and/or Microsoft Entra ID
• Basic networking knowledge (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP)
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Due to the requirements of this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and authorized to work in the United States.

Technical Requirements

Candidates should demonstrate the ability to perform the following tasks with minimal supervision:

• Configure and deploy Windows 11 workstations in accordance with organizational standards
• Perform a complete Windows 11 operating system reset, reinstallation, and recovery while preserving or restoring required system functionality
• Build a Windows 11 computer from bare hardware through delivery to the end user, including:
  • Installing Windows 11
  • Applying operating system updates
  • Installing hardware drivers
  • Configuring BIOS/UEFI settings as required
  • Joining devices to Microsoft Entra ID or Active Directory
  • Enrolling devices in Microsoft Intune
  • Applying security baselines and configuration policies
  • Installing and configuring required business applications
  • Configuring Microsoft 365 applications and user profiles
  • Enabling Microsoft Defender security features
  • Verifying device compliance and operational readiness
• Troubleshoot Windows startup, operating system, hardware driver, and application issues
• Install, configure, and update desktop software and security applications
• Understand Windows file systems, user profiles, local security settings, and system configuration tools
• Utilize PowerShell and administrative utilities to perform common system administration tasks
• Follow documented build procedures and configuration standards to ensure consistent, repeatable workstation deployments

Preferred Qualifications and Certifications

• Experience with Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Defender, Windows Server, Hyper-V or VMware, and PowerShell
• Familiarity with vulnerability management and remote monitoring tools
• Experience supporting cloud environments
• Exposure to cybersecurity concepts and best practices
• Experience with ticketing systems such as Autotask, ConnectWise, or ServiceNow
• Prior military experience is highly desired
• CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+
• Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
• Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900)
• Microsoft Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.