The Maritime Network Engineer/Systems Administrator - SME will play a critical role in providing comprehensive IT network engineering support for the Office of Maritime Security and National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) Program at the DOT Maritime Administration (MARAD). This position serves as the principal authority on network operations and development, supporting various agency and interagency maritime programs while maintaining strong partnerships within the maritime industry. The successful candidate will provide IT Network Engineering and System Administration Support for the Office of Maritime Security and National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) Program at the DOT Maritime Administration (MARAD). The selected candidate will serve as an authoritative resource for MARAD relative to network operations, server and virtualization services, cybersecurity hardening, network development and production, and support numerous agency and interagency maritime programs. Direct involvement with MARAD Program Office on all matters related to NSMV network acceptance and testing. This includes providing regular reports. Person would have background on Maritime network architecture, security, hardware, software, IT space configuration, virtualization, and emergency response, if needed. Work closely with MARAD’s Office of Ship Operations to help ensure that MARAD's government owned vessels and shore support establishment are prepared for continuous operations in support of the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security and other Government Departments, Agencies, and organizations. Support Office of Ship Operations assessments, audits, exercises, site visits, training and information development for contracted Ship Managers, and other commercial and government ship operators. Assist in the mitigation / remediation process, following corrective action plans approved by MARAD leadership i.e., Contracting Officer (CO), Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), and/or Task Area Provide network architecture and security expertise to support the system engineering process formally known as the System’s Development Life Cycle (SDLC). Provide Network support to the MARAD’s NSMV Program Office, their Vessel Construction Manager (e.g. - security vendor), the Criterion Cybersecurity SME, and the MARAD ISSM in support of acquiring and maintaining an Authority to Operate (ATO) for the NSMVs. Administer and maintain Windows Server and Linux systems across shipboard and shore environments. Manage Active Directory, including users, groups, GPOs, authentication services, certificates, DNS, DHCP, and related enterprise services. Perform server patching, configuration management, system monitoring, and operational troubleshooting. Manage VMware vSphere/ESXi hosts, vCenter, virtual networking, storage, and shipboard virtualization clusters. Apply DISA STIGs to Windows Server, Linux, VMware ESXi, and network appliances as part of cybersecurity hardening and compliance efforts. Maintain system baselines, documentation packages, backup/recovery procedures, and configuration standards.