Windows Systems Administrator - McLean, VA - TS/SCI

PGTEK; Illinois; On-site; USD 185,000 - 265,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical coverage

Vision and dental insurance

401(k) matching plan

Generous PTO and Holidays

Education Assistance Program

Job summary

PGTEK is seeking a Senior System Administrator in McLean, VA, transitioning to Chantilly, VA, with an active TS/SCI clearance. The role involves maintaining and optimizing Windows-based systems and providing tiered technical support. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience and expertise in enterprise infrastructure design. PGTEK offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and 401(k) contributions, plus PTO, holiday, and education assistance programs.

Qualifications

• MUST have a current and active TS/SCI clearance with CI Poly.
• 8+ years of experience as a Windows System Administrator.
• Deep expertise in systems optimization and maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain Windows-based systems.
• Administer Active Directory, Group Policy, and DNS.
• Provide Tier II/III technical support.

Skills

Windows Server expertise

Active Directory management

Troubleshooting

Communication

Collaboration

Education

IAM Level II certification

Tools

PowerShell

SCCM

ServiceNow

Job description

Senior System Administrator (Windows)

Location: McLean, VA (transitioning to Chantilly, VA)
Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph
Salary Range: $185,000 – $265,000
Travel: Up to 20%

Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior System Administrator to join a dynamic infrastructure team supporting next-generation technologies, including initiatives in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) space. This role is ideal for a hands‑on technical expert who thrives in complex environments and is passionate about building, maintaining, and optimizing enterprise systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and maintain Windows-based systems, networks, and applications
• Architect and support enterprise-level Windows infrastructure
• Administer and manage:
  • Active Directory
  • Group Policy
  • DNS
  • File servers
  • Exchange / enterprise email systems
• Manage patching, updates, and system performance optimization
• Monitor systems, troubleshoot issues, and ensure high availability
• Support system deployments using tools such as SCCM or MDT
• Develop and maintain technical documentation and standard operating procedures
• Provide Tier II/III technical support via phone, email, and in-person
• Collaborate with cross-functional IT teams to integrate new technologies
• Travel up to 20% for on‑site support, installations, and maintenance

• MUST have a current and active TS/SCI clearance with CI Poly
• 8+ years of experience as a Windows System Administrator or similar role
• Deep expertise in Windows Server and Desktop operating systems
• Strong experience with enterprise infrastructure design and support
• Hands‑on experience with Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, and patch management
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• IAM Level II certification (DoD 8570 IAT compliant)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Linux (server or workstation environments)
• Scripting and automation skills (PowerShell, Python, Bash)
• Microsoft certifications (MCSA, MCSE) or equivalent
• Experience with virtualization technologies (VMware, Hyper‑V, KVM)
• Knowledge of backup and disaster recovery strategies
• Familiarity with security best practices (firewalls, antivirus, etc.)
• SQL Server administration experience
• Experience with ITSM platforms such as ServiceNow

Core Competencies

• Problem‑Solving: Strong analytical skills with the ability to resolve complex system issues
• Communication: Clear and effective communicator across technical and non‑technical teams
• Collaboration: Team‑oriented with the ability to work across multiple stakeholders
• Mentorship: Ability to guide junior engineers and promote best practices
• Ownership: Proactive mindset with strong accountability for system performance and reliability

Our comprehensive benefits package for full‑time salaried employees is effective immediately upon the start date. Benefits include comprehensive PPO medical coverage with access to a Health Savings Account (HSA) option, a vision plan, and dental insurance with the base dental plan option paid for by PGTEK. Life Insurance, Short and Long‑Term disability, and Critical Illness insurance have premiums covered. Additionally, PGTEK offers a matching 401(k) plan and a discount on pet insurance through ASPCA Pet Insurance. An Employee Assistance Program is available at no cost to all employees. PGTEK offers a generous amount of PTO and Holidays, and an Education Assistance Program is available after 12 months of employment.

EOE, including disability/veterans