POSITION SUMMARY Location: On-site at our Pinehurst, NC area facility We are seeking an Systems Administrator to own the company's day-to-day IT infrastructure, hardware, and systems. This person keeps the business running technically: provisioning new hires, administering endpoints and network equipment, and standing up our first on-premises server environment - while working alongside a dedicated Cybersecurity & Compliance Manager and a Help Desk / Desktop Support Lead. This role owns infrastructure and systems administration specifically. It is not responsible for cybersecurity strategy or CMMC/NIST compliance ownership (that sits with the Cybersecurity & Compliance Manager) or front-line ticket support (that sits with the Help Desk Lead) - though close day-to-day coordination with both is essential, especially as we bring our first on-premises server online. Key Responsibilities • Own and administer company IT hardware, network systems, and (soon) on-premises server infrastructure. • Provision and manage endpoints (Windows, macOS, and iOS) across the full device lifecycle - issuance, configuration, maintenance, and retirement. • Administer network equipment: routers, switches, firewalls, access points, and VPN connections. • Stand up and maintain the company's first on-premises server environment, including Windows Server, Active Directory, virtualization, backups, and patching, as this capability comes online. • Provision new hires: accounts, hardware, and system access, in coordination with HR and the Help Desk Lead. • Maintain the official IT asset registry and configuration baselines. • Support integrations with enterprise systems (ERP, MRP, IMS) as the company grows. • Partner with the Cybersecurity & Compliance Manager and our Managed Security & Compliance Partner (MSCP) to ensure systems and endpoints meet required security configurations. • Serve as the Tier 3 escalation point for issues the Help Desk Lead cannot resolve. • Recommend infrastructure improvements, tools, and standards that support growth and reliability. Infrastructure and Systems • Administer on-premises server infrastructure (Windows Server, AD, virtualization, backup/recovery) as it is deployed. • Maintain network infrastructure across the office, including connectivity, Wi-Fi, and site-to-site/VPN access. • Ensure encryption, patching, and security configurations are applied and monitored across all endpoints and infrastructure. Device and Access Management • Manage the full device lifecycle for company-owned hardware. • Provision and de-provision user accounts and access as employees join, move, or leave the company. • Maintain accurate, audit-ready asset and configuration records. Cross-Functional Coordination • Work with the Cybersecurity & Compliance Manager to implement security controls and configuration baselines defined by the MSCP. • Support the Help Desk Lead on escalated technical issues and infrastructure-level troubleshooting. • Support enterprise system integrations (ERP/MRP/IMS) alongside business stakeholders. QUALIFICATIONS Requirements • 4-7 years of professional IT systems administration experience (mid-to-senior level). • Hands-on experience with Windows Server, Active Directory, and virtualization - or strong systems administration fundamentals with readiness to stand up on-premises infrastructure. • Experience managing network hardware (routers, switches, firewalls, VPN). • Experience with endpoint management and device lifecycle across Windows, macOS, and iOS. • Familiarity with Microsoft 365 (GCC or GCC High preferred) and coordinating with a managed service/security provider. • Strong documentation and asset management discipline. Preferred Qualifications • Certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate, or Azure Administrator Associate (not required at this time, as the company does not yet handle CUI). • Experience in DoD, aerospace, or defense industrial base (DIB) environments. • Experience supporting ERP/MRP/IMS system integrations. • Experience working alongside an MSSP/MSCP or other outsourced IT security partner. SALARY & BENEFITS Kraken Kinetics is committed to offering a competitive compensation package to attract and retain top talent. This full-time, on-site exempt position offers an annual salary range of $125,000- $145,000 depending on qualifications and experience. Security Requirement US Citizen Security Statement: This position requires special access to U.S. government information. You must be a U.S. citizen for consideration Benefits included: • Generous PTO policy • Comprehensive medical coverage (80% company-paid for employee + dependents). • Vision & dental (100% company-paid) • Short and long-term disability coverage (100% company-paid) • Generous 401(k) retirement plan • Company-paid life insurance • Great teammates and well stocked snacks LIFE IN MOORE COUNTY, NC (PINEHURST AREA) Kraken Kinetics is based in Moore County, North Carolina, home to Pinehurst, a nationally recognized destination offering an exceptional quality of life. Employees benefit from a low cost of living, minimal congestion, and a strong sense of community, with easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh-Durham. Whether you're looking to accelerate your career or put down long-term roots, the Pinehurst area offers a compelling alternative to traditional tech and defense hubs. We are committed to supporting relocation for the right candidates. 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