Classified Systems Administrator, III

RAND•Washington, DC

1d•$88,000 - $130,900•Onsite

About The Position

The Classified Systems Administrator, III is responsible for the administration, evaluation, and optimization of classified servers, network infrastructures, and communication systems operating within secure, regulated environments. Serving as a senior technical contributor, this role independently maintains mission-critical systems, ensures operational effectiveness, and supports infrastructure projects while adhering to federal security and compliance standards. The position requires strong expertise in either Windows or Linux systems and works closely with cybersecurity, network, and program teams to ensure the reliability, performance, and security of classified IT operations. This position requires 100% in office support.

Requirements

Knowledge of PC hardware, software and network systems for Windows and Linux.
Proficient in administration, troubleshooting, and performance tuning of classified servers, networks, and storage.
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills for moderately complex technical issues.
Ability to plan and execute technical solutions independently while escalating enterprise-level issues appropriately.
Effective communication and collaboration skills with technical teams, management, and functional departments.
Knowledge of backup, disaster recovery, and secure communications practices in classified environments.
Must be able to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
Understanding of Nest 800-171 and CMMC requirements.
Must have experience working in classified cloud solutions.
Experience conducting audit of classified systems.
Advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for completing network, system, and application issues in a classified environment.
Experience with DCSA and IC Community System assessments.
Associate's degree is required
Minimum of 5 years' experience in classified network systems is required.
Must have active TS/SCI access with Poly preferred.
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain security and technical certifications such as Security+.

Nice To Haves

Linux OS experience is preferred.
BA/BS preferred
9 years of experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Administer, configure, and maintain classified servers, LAN/WAN networks, and secure communications systems to ensure high availability, performance, and operational continuity.
Proactively monitor system health, logs, and alerts; troubleshoot hardware, software, and network issues; and escalate complex enterprise-level problems when needed.
Execute system updates, patch management, backups, and disaster recovery procedures in accordance with security requirements and organizational standards.
Support infrastructure modernization efforts, including system upgrades, migrations, and deployments within classified environments.
Assist in the design, configuration, implementation, and documentation of secure IT solutions that meet operational and mission needs.
Implement and maintain security controls for classified systems in alignment with NIST 800-series, STIGs, ICD 503, RMF, and organizational policies.
Support vulnerability remediation, accreditation and validation activities, audit readiness, and formal change management/configuration control processes.
Analyze system and network performance to identify capacity or reliability gaps and recommend improvements that enhance scalability, resilience, security, and cost-effectiveness.
Partner closely with cybersecurity, engineering, program, and IT teams to deliver compliant, secure, and reliable technical solutions.
Contribute to technical documentation, process improvements, knowledge sharing, and mentoring or training for team members and users as needed.
Perform other related duties in support of classified program and operational objectives.