System Administrator, Level 1

Independent Software; Corridor North (MD); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing training and mentorship

Competitive compensation

Generous benefits

Work-life balance

Job summary

Independent Software is seeking a System Administrator Level 1 to support mission-critical Linux environments within secure Department of Defense networks. The ideal candidate will administer Linux systems, manage infrastructure, and ensure security compliance.

This role offers exposure to cloud platforms, containers, and virtualization technologies while supporting critical national missions. Candidates should have a technical degree or equivalent experience and must meet specific certification and security clearance requirements.

Qualifications

• Five years of experience as a System Administrator or ten years of relevant experience without a degree.
• Must meet DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification.
• Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph.

Responsibilities

• Administer and troubleshoot Linux-based servers and infrastructure.
• Support containerized and cloud-hosted environments.
• Manage virtualization platforms and enterprise storage.
• Configure IP networking and firewall technologies.
• Implement and maintain PKI, TLS certificates.

Skills

Linux system administration

Cloud and containerized environment support

Virtualization management

Network configuration and troubleshooting

PKI and TLS certificate management

Analytical and troubleshooting skills

Strong communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline

Job description

What You Will Do:

As a System Administrator Level 1 at Independent Software, you will support mission‑critical Linux environments within secure Department of Defense and Intelligence Community networks. You will be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting Linux systems, supporting applications, managing infrastructure components, and ensuring compliance with security requirements in highly secure operational environments.

This role offers the opportunity to work with modern technologies including cloud platforms, containers, virtualization, storage systems, networking, and enterprise security solutions while supporting critical national security missions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administer, maintain, and troubleshoot Linux‑based servers and infrastructure.
• Support containerized and cloud‑hosted environments.
• Manage virtualization platforms and enterprise storage solutions.
• Configure and troubleshoot IP networking, routing, and firewall technologies.
• Support application deployments, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities.
• Implement and maintain PKI, TLS certificates, and enterprise cryptographic policies.
• Perform system patching, hardening, upgrades, and lifecycle management.
• Support SSP compliance activities and STE/STN requirements.
• Troubleshoot system, application, network, and infrastructure issues.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation and operational procedures.
• Collaborate with engineering, security, and operations teams to support mission requirements.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Experience administering Linux systems in enterprise environments.
• Experience supporting cloud and containerized environments.
• Experience with virtualization and storage management technologies.
• Experience configuring and troubleshooting IP networking and firewalls.
• Strong understanding of PKI, TLS, certificates, encryption technologies, and cryptographic policies.
• Experience supporting enterprise applications and performing system troubleshooting.
• Understanding of SSP compliance requirements and STE/STN support processes.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Education and Experience:

• Five (5) years of experience as a System Administrator supporting programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required.
• Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline from an accredited college or university is required.

OR

• Ten (10) years of System Administrator experience supporting programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity may be substituted for a bachelor's degree.

Certifications:

• Must meet DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification.

Clearance Requirement:

• Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role.

Why Choose Independent Software:

At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive. When you join us, you will:

• Support critical national security missions that matter.
• Be part of a close‑knit, employee‑first culture where your voice is heard.
• Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development.
• Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work‑life balance.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger. Apply today.

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.