IT Specialist – Service Desk Support and Systems Administrator

Lynker Corporation•Boulder, CO

4d•$70,000 - $89,000

About The Position

Lynker is seeking an IT Specialist to provide advanced service desk support and systems administration for the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) at the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). The position supports SWPC’s desktop computing environment and broader IT infrastructure, resolving complex hardware, software, and network issues while maintaining secure, reliable, and responsive service. The role includes Windows systems administration, help desk ticket management, email and endpoint encryption administration, inventory and compliance support, and assistance with infrastructure initiatives. The position supports the Space Weather Forecast Office’s 24/7 forecast mission by maintaining National Critical Systems (NCS) and Business Enterprise System (BES) workstations, laptops, and telephony platforms. The successful candidate will follow security policies and configuration management standards, work independently or under general guidance, and provide customer-focused support to users with varied technical backgrounds. The role is ideally based in Boulder, Colorado, but may be performed remotely for the right candidate. The position is contingent on funding approval.

Requirements

At least a bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science, space physics, geophysics, engineering, computer science, or mathematics from an accredited institution.
At least 3 years of experience in related areas, including 3 or more years of progressively responsible IT helpdesk support and systems administration in a Windows environment.
Strong working knowledge of Windows operating systems, including Windows 10/11 and prior versions, Microsoft Office Suite, and endpoint configuration management and security tools.
Experience with endpoint encryption, MFA, and IT security compliance practices.
Proficiency in troubleshooting hardware, software, desktop deployment practices, and network connectivity.
Familiarity with Service Desk trouble-ticketing systems and escalation workflows.
Strong customer service and communication skills, including the ability to support users ranging from entry-level staff to scientists and senior executives professionally and courteously.
Must be a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder.
U.S. citizens must have lived in the United States for 3–5 years before applying.
Applicants should indicate their qualifying citizenship or residency status in their cover letter.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting IT services in a 24/7 operational environment or within a federal agency.
Familiarity with NOAA/NWS IT and computing standards, Continuity of Operations (COOP) plans, cybersecurity standards, and configuration management requirements.
Working knowledge of scripting or automation tools for deploying, maintaining, patching, and updating Windows-based IT systems and mobile devices.
Experience supporting conference-room A/V equipment and VOIP telephony.
Relevant industry certifications such as CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, or Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate.

Responsibilities

Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve user-reported technical problems involving workstations, laptops, mobile devices, and peripherals.
Respond to and resolve advanced Service Desk tickets within defined Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and customer satisfaction expectations.
Manage user accounts in Active Directory and Google Workspace, including permissions, groups, and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Perform client-system and server patching, upgrades, imaging, and configuration management for Windows environments.
Coordinate and execute desktop, laptop, and mobile device provisioning, including installation of endpoint security and configuration management agents such as NBFS, MAAS360, and Manage Engine.
Maintain NCS and BES desktops, laptops, and telephony platforms to support 24/7 operational availability at the Space Weather Forecast Office.
Conduct asset management, including inventory control, labeling, tracking, receiving, sanitization, decommissioning, and reporting of service-tagged equipment.
Provide user training, education, and guidance on system access, platform and operating system usage, cybersecurity, and best practices.
Install and support networked conference-room audio/visual systems, including cameras, projection devices, networked computers, and telephony.
Assist senior system administrators with network authentication, server troubleshooting, and security-audit compliance.
Research and develop technical specifications, provide cost quotes, and validate equipment orders for procurement.
Support the physical movement, deployment, and decommissioning of hardware assets; assist the Property Manager with inventory tracking and asset audits.
Follow documented technical task procedures and apply sound judgment and best practices to complete assignments independently or under general guidance.

Benefits

Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost, covering medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision.
Personal Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays.
Competitive compensation plan calibrated against industry and location benchmarks.
401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
Flexible spending accounts.
Employee assistance program (EAP).
Short- and long-term disability insurance.
Life and accident insurance.
Tuition assistance, training, and workforce improvement reimbursement.
Spot bonuses for exceptional performance.
Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses.
Employee Referral Program.
Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System.
Personalized career growth plans.