Systems Administrator Spec II

General Atomics; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 53,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) seeks a System Administrator Specialist to join the SIL team in Poway, CA. You will maintain multi-user, Linux-based systems and provide hands‑on engineering support.

Responsibilities include configuring users, backing up data, securing resources, and coordinating hardware/software deployments. Strong communication and problem‑solving skills are essential for handling routine and complex issues.

Qualifications

• Typically requires an Associate's degree in information technology or a related discipline, plus 1+ year of professional systems administration experience.
• Equivalent military IT experience may be substituted for education.
• Fundamental hands‑on knowledge of Windows and Linux operating systems.

Responsibilities

• Set up user accounts and maintain system documentation.
• Install system software and manage storage, security, and backups.
• Coordinate day‑to‑day IT operations and deploy hardware/software.
• Reimage workstations/servers using deployment baselines and recovery media.
• Troubleshoot routine and non‑routine system problems and coordinate upgrades.

Skills

Linux systems

System administration

Cybersecurity awareness

Communication skills

Education

Associate's degree in IT or related

Military IT/Networking experience

Tools

VMware

Hyper-V

Windows Server

Windows Client

Linux

Job description

58101BR

Job Summary:

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

We have an exciting opportunity for a System Administrator Specialist to join our System Integration Lab (SIL) team in Poway, CA. Under general supervision, this position is responsible for maintaining the smooth operation of multi-user, multi-computer Linux-based systems. This is a hands‑on engineering support position.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Setting up user accounts, maintaining documentation, installing system software using platform loading procedures, allocation of mass storage space, providing security to computing resources, and backing up systems to provide data integrity.
• Coordinates the assigned organizations electronic office systems activities which may include personal computers, client servers, electronic mail, on‑line and internet resources and standard software products.
• Interacts with users and may analyze vendor products.
• May make recommendations to purchase hardware and software, coordinate installation and may train internal users.
• Coordinates day‑to‑day functions to ensure the operation and maintenance of computer systems. Coordinates installation of computer hardware and software.
• Perform workstation and server re‑imaging using approved deployment baselines, disk images, and recovery media.
• Resolves routine and non‑routine system problems: May be startup, configuration, performance, and connectivity issues.
• Troubleshoots systems and may recommend solutions including new hardware or software or upgrades.
• Coordinates the implementation of system changes or upgrades including deployment, resource requirements, testing, documentation, integration and compliance and safety IAW AWI’s, PTP’s, and Platform Users Guides.
• Support cybersecurity compliance activities by assisting with vulnerability assessment scans, applying physical port locks, and logging security checklist items in accordance with STIG/RMF guidance. May act as the primary contact with suppliers and vendors.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Any other additional functions or duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications:

• Typically requires an Associate's degree in information technology or a related discipline, along with one or more year professional systems administration experience. Equivalent professional experience in information technology may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Equivalent military experience includes technical training in communications, IT/helpdesk support, or ground network infrastructure (e.g., Air Force 3D1X2, Army 25B, Navy/Air Force 17S, or equivalent technical ratings).
• Certifications (Preferred / In-Progress):
• CompTIA A+ Network+ Security+ Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Must demonstrate full knowledge of two or more system administration functions including system performance tuning and measurement, back‑up, recovery, configuration, internet protocol, security/firewalls, web servers and load balancing.
• Fundamental hands‑on knowledge of Windows Server, Windows Client, and Linux operating systems.
• Practical understanding of foundational networking principles, including IP addressing, subnetting, DHCP/DNS concepts, and switch port connectivity.
• Familiarity with system imaging tools, baseline deployment procedures, and driver/software installation in offline or air‑gapped environments.
• Basic awareness of virtualization concepts (VMware, Hyper‑V) and host/guest architectures.
• Ability to read and follow network cabling diagrams, rack elevation drawings, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Strong technical communication, detailed log‑keeping, and discrepancy‑reporting skills.
• Must have a comprehensive understanding of systems test concepts, theory, and operations and experience demonstrating those skills.
• Must be able to schedule and coordinate work assignments to meet established completion dates.
• The ability to identify issues, interpret data and develop solutions to a variety of routine and non‑routine problems.
• Good analytical, verbal and written communication skills to accurately document and report findings.
• The ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Strong analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to accurately document, report and assess situations and make judgments.
• Demonstrate an understanding of engineering terminology and be able to work well in a technically diverse engineering team environment.
• Expected to work in a safe manner, in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Ability to lift, transport, and rack server and network hardware in accordance with workplace safety standards.
• Strong technical communication, detailed log‑keeping, and discrepancy‑reporting skills.
• The ability to work independently or in a team environment is essential.
• The ability to work extended hours and travel, both domestically and internationally, as required.
• Prior experience working in a classified or ITAR‑regulated environment is highly desirable.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.

Job Category:

Engineering

Experience Level:

Entry‑Level (0-2 years)

Workstyle:

Onsite

Full-Time/Part-Time:

Full‑Time Hourly

Pay Range Low:

52,500

Pay Range High:

78,000

Travel Percentage Required:

0% - 25%

Relocation Assistance Provided?:

No

US Citizenship Required?:

Yes

Clearance Required?:

Desired

Clearance Level:

Secret

General Atomics is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. In accordance with applicable federal law, General Atomics takes affirmative action to employ and advance the employment of qualified protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws. U.S. Citizenship is required for certain positions. To learn more, please review the EEOC’s "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal" poster.