Junior Systems Administrator

ValidaTek, Inc.; Illinois; On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in IT service optimization is looking for a motivated Junior Systems Administrator to join their team. This entry-level position offers hands-on support for enterprise IT systems in a secure Department of Defense environment, ideal for someone eager to learn and grow in cybersecurity and IT support. Applicants should be detail-oriented and possess foundational IT knowledge, with opportunities for career progression in a high-stakes federal environment.

Qualifications

• Active Secret clearance required, with ability to obtain Top Secret clearance.
• 1+ years of experience in system administration or IT support.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity compliance tools like RMF, STIGs is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist in installation and configuration of Windows/Linux servers.
• Monitor system performance and troubleshoot hardware/software issues.
• Respond to user support tickets and resolve end-user issues.

Skills

Basic understanding of system administration

User account management

Patching

File system organization

Eagerness to learn

Education

Associate’s degree in Information Technology

DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification (e.g., Security+ CE)

Tools

Windows Server

Linux operating systems

Job description

Company Overview

At ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our success starts and ends with our people, so we built a company where great people can do great things, with the resources and autonomy to make decisions that transform organizations. We operate as one team of diverse people, united by a passion for continuous growth and optimization. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation. www.validatek.com

Summary

ValidaTek is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Systems Administrator to support the Cybersecurity Systems Support (CSS) contract with the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA). This entry-level position provides hands-on support for enterprise IT systems in a secure Department of Defense environment. The ideal candidate will have foundational IT knowledge, a desire to learn, and a strong sense of responsibility for maintaining secure and efficient system operations. This is a 100% on-site position located in Pensacola, FL.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of Windows and/or Linux servers.

• Perform basic system administration tasks, including account creation, password resets, and permissions management.

• Monitor system performance and assist in troubleshooting hardware and software issues.

• Support patching, updates, and antivirus deployment in accordance with DoD STIG and IAVM compliance requirements.

• Help manage enterprise services such as Active Directory, DNS, and Group Policy under supervision.

• Participate in implementing security controls as part of Risk Management Framework (RMF) activities.

• Assist in maintaining system documentation, including configuration baselines and operational procedures.

• Work with senior system administrators to support backup and recovery tasks.

• Support cybersecurity tools and platforms, such as HBSS, ACAS, and SIEM solutions, as directed.

• Respond to user support tickets and help resolve end-user issues in coordination with the help desk.

Qualifications

• Active Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance.

• Associate’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field OR equivalent experience/training.

• DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification (e.g., Security+ CE) – required or must be obtained within 90 days of hire.

• 1+ years of experience in a system administration, IT support, or help desk role.

• Basic understanding of system administration, including user account management, patching, and file system organization.

• Familiarity with Windows Server or Linux operating systems.

• Ability to follow standard operating procedures, document work, and escalate issues appropriately.

• Eagerness to learn and contribute in a structured, security-focused DoD environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a DoD or federal IT environment.

• Exposure to RMF, STIGs, or cybersecurity compliance tools such as eMASS or ACAS.

• Knowledge of scripting languages (e.g., PowerShell, Bash) is a plus.

• IT certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Fundamentals, or Linux+.

Posted Min Pay Rate

USD $50,000.00/Yr.

Posted Max Pay Rate

USD $70,000.00/Yr.

Salary Disclosure

Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, geographic location, contract affordability, internal equity, education, and certifications. The upper end of the salary range may be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated tenure with the company, seniority, and proven excellent performance. This includes factors such as education, certifications, and extensive/unique experience beyond what is required.

EEO Statement

ValidaTek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to verify authorization to work in the United States. Offers of employment will be contingent upon passing a post-offer background check.