Systems Administrator / Systems Engineer

SMS Data Products Group, Inc.; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

SMS Data Products Group, Inc. is seeking a Tier II/III Systems Administrator to provide embedded IT support for AFRL's Space Vehicles Directorate at Kirtland AFB, NM.

The role focuses on Windows and Linux workstation and development environment administration to sustain mission-critical systems. The ideal candidate has an active SECRET clearance or the ability to obtain one, hands-on experience with Windows and Linux, and a proven ability to work independently in a fast-paced, government-related

Qualifications

• Active SECRET clearance (or ability to obtain).
• Security+ CE, CASP, CISSP, or other DoD 8570‑compliant certifications (or ability to obtain).
• 3+ years of experience in systems administration and engineering.
• Experience with Windows and Linux operating systems and associated tools.
• Proficiency in installing and maintaining both COTS and GOTS applications.
• Understanding of system security, access control, and configuration management.
• Ability to operate independently and coordinate with remote teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide Tier II/III support for troubleshooting, resolving, and escalating hardware and software issues across Windows and Linux environments.
• Perform installation, configuration, maintenance, and upgrades of hardware and software on NIPRNet, SIPRNet, DREN, SDREN, stand-alone, and enclave networks.
• Maintain compliance with USAF Standard Desktop Configurations (SDC) and Air Force-approved software.
• Install and configure Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) and Government Off-The-Shelf (GOTS) software.
• Work directly with developers for software installation and configuration.
• Provide guidance on hardware and software selection, as well as system capacity planning, to ensure performance and scalability.
• Ensure physical and administrative access to required systems and coordinate with centralized support for technical issues and continuity of operations.
• Provide reach-back capability to the main support facility and coordinate technical inquiries or emergency support needs.
• Manage and document IT hardware asset inventory and lifecycle processes.
• Ensure continuity of support during the absence of primary staff through coordination with backup personnel.
• Demonstrate proficiency in creating, maintaining, and referencing technical documentation and knowledge base (KB) articles to support consistent IT practices.

Skills

SECRET clearance

DoD 8570 certifications

Windows

Linux

COTS/GOTS software

Independent work

Remote team coordination

Job description

United States, New Mexico, Kirtland Air Force Base

Oct 06, 2026

We are seeking a highly skilled and mission-driven Tier II/III Systems Administrator to provide embedded IT support to the RVS Division of AFRL's Space Vehicles Directorate at Kirtland AFB, NM. This role focuses on delivering advanced and dedicated support for Windows/Linux workstations and development environments, ensuring reliable operations for systems that underpin space research and technology development efforts.

The successful candidate will be directly embedded in a division that develops cutting-edge space component technologies and leads premier satellite experiment programs. Working side-by-side with leading scientists and engineers, this individual will help enable AFRL's mission to maintain U.S. and allied space superiority through secure and resilient IT infrastructure.

This position operates independently on site, serving as a "one deep" technical presence with reach-back support from the central IT team, and in coordination with a System Administrator from an aligned Division.

Since 1976, SMS has specialized in modernizing legacy IT and sustaining complex enterprise environments for federal agencies. With the goal of building long-term partnerships with our customers, we invest in our employees by providing the training, tools, and support they need to keep critical missions operational, improve performance, and reduce risk. SMS is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, with offices and on-site operations at customer locations throughout the United States. For additional information on SMS, visit www.sms.com.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide Tier II/III support for troubleshooting, resolving, and escalating hardware and software issues across Windows and Linux environments.
• Perform installation, configuration, maintenance, and upgrades of hardware and software on NIPRNet, SIPRNet, DREN, SDREN, stand-alone, and enclave networks.
• Maintain compliance with USAF Standard Desktop Configurations (SDC) and Air Force-approved software.
• Install and configure Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) and Government Off-The-Shelf (GOTS) software.
• Work directly with developers for software installation and configuration.
• Provide guidance on hardware and software selection, as well as system capacity planning, to ensure performance and scalability.
• Ensure physical and administrative access to required systems and coordinate with centralized support for technical issues and continuity of operations.
• Provide reach-back capability to the main support facility and coordinate technical inquiries or emergency support needs.
• Manage and document IT hardware asset inventory and lifecycle processes.
• Ensure continuity of support during the absence of primary staff through coordination with backup personnel.
• Demonstrate proficiency in creating, maintaining, and referencing technical documentation and knowledge base (KB) articles to support consistent IT practices.

Required Qualifications

• Active SECRET clearance (or ability to obtain).
• Security+ CE, CASP, CISSP, or other DoD 8570-compliant certifications (or ability to obtain).
• 3+ years of experience in systems administration and engineering.
• Experience with Windows and Linux operating systems and associated tools.
• Proficiency in installing and maintaining both COTS and GOTS applications.
• Understanding of system security, access control, and configuration management.
• Ability to operate independently and coordinate with remote teams.

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of USAF and DoD IT policies and procedures, including STIG compliance.
• Technology certifications such as RHCSA, MCSE, or other credentials that show technical depth.
• Experience supporting DoD/DOE/ or research environments.
• Familiarity with IT asset management tools and processes.
• Experience with Air Force software baselines and SDC implementation.
• Prior experience working in isolated or "one deep" positions.
• Familiarity with virtualization technologies (VMware, Hyper-V).
• Exposure to backup, restore, and disaster recovery strategies.
• Knowledge of network configuration and troubleshooting (Ethernet, VLAN, etc.).
• Working knowledge of ticketing systems and IT service management tools.

SMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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.