Windows Systems Administrator

Leidos Holding$116K — $210K *
Information Technology
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 12+ years in systems or infrastructure engineering
  • Active TS/SCI with Poly security clearance
  • Strong experience in Windows enterprise environments
  • Proven experience in high-availability systems
  • Familiarity with restricted or air-gapped environments
  • Strong troubleshooting skills across various IT layers
  • Ability to take independent ownership of complex systems

Responsibilities

  • Administer and maintain Windows-based infrastructure across enclave environments
  • Manage VMware vCenter/ESXi for optimal performance and resource configuration
  • Support AWS cloud infrastructure operations and management
  • Maintain and troubleshoot Active Directory and identity systems
  • Oversee patching and compliance using WSUS and SCCM
  • Administer Microsoft Exchange and Citrix environments
  • Manage backup and recovery operations using Rubrik
  • Perform deep-dive troubleshooting and root cause analysis

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work in secure, high-impact environments
  • Direct ownership of mission-critical systems
  • Focus on driving meaningful improvements
  • Engagement in legacy infrastructure challenges and modernization efforts
  • Contribution to critical operations with visible impact
Full Job Description
Position Overview

We are seeking a Senior Infrastructure Engineer to support and operate mission-critical, enclave-based environments across on-premises VMware infrastructure and AWS cloud.

This role sits at the center of a high-security, high-availability ecosystem, supporting systems where downtime has real operational impact. You will be responsible for owning, stabilizing, and improving a complex hybrid environment consisting of both legacy and modern platforms.

This is not a passive support role-this is for someone who can step in, take control of the environment, and drive reliability and performance forward.

Clearance Requirement
  • Active TS/SCI with Poly security clearance required
  • Must be eligible to work in restricted / air-gapped environments


What You'll Own
  • Two standalone/enclave Windows domains:
  • On-prem VMware-based infrastructure
  • AWS-hosted environment
  • A 24/7 mission-critical system footprint
  • Core enterprise services: identity, storage, compute, backup, and security tooling
  • Environments with limited external connectivity and strict security controls


Key Responsibilities
  • Administer and maintain Windows-based infrastructure across enclave environments
  • Manage VMware vCenter / ESXi (host performance, VM lifecycle, resource optimization)
  • Support AWS cloud infrastructure (EC2, VPC, storage, IAM fundamentals)
  • Maintain and troubleshoot Active Directory, Group Policy, and identity systems
  • Oversee patching and system compliance via WSUS and SCCM
  • Administer Microsoft Exchange and Citrix environments
  • Maintain DNS, networking, and core infrastructure services
  • Support and optimize SAN storage environments
  • Manage backup and recovery operations using Rubrik
  • Support and troubleshoot security platforms, including:
  • Trellix ePO
  • Rapid7
  • Security Onion IDS
  • Centrify
  • Perform deep-dive troubleshooting and root cause analysis across systems
  • Maintain system documentation, SOPs, and incident response procedures
  • Identify and implement infrastructure improvements and automation opportunities


Environment Characteristics
  • Air-gapped / enclave networks
  • Hybrid on-prem (VMware) + AWS cloud
  • Legacy mission systems with modernization constraints
  • Security-first architecture with strict compliance requirements
  • High uptime expectations with minimal tolerance for disruption


Required Qualifications
  • Must have at least 12 years of experience in systems engineering or infrastructure engineering
  • Active TS/SCI with Poly
  • Strong experience supporting Windows enterprise environments
  • Proven experience in high-availability / mission-critical systems
  • Experience operating in restricted, regulated, or air-gapped environments
  • Strong troubleshooting skills across OS, virtualization, networking, and storage layers
  • Ability to work independently and take ownership of complex systems


Core Technical Expertise
  • Operating Systems
  • Windows Server (2016/2019/2022)
  • Windows 11
  • Linux (Rocky Linux, Red Hat)
  • Virtualization & Cloud
  • VMware vCenter / ESXi
  • AWS (EC2, VPC, storage, IAM basics)
  • Core Infrastructure
  • Active Directory & Group Policy
  • DNS / networking fundamentals
  • SAN Storage
  • Systems Management
  • SCCM, WSUS
  • Microsoft Exchange
  • Citrix
  • Security Tooling
  • Trellix ePO
  • Rapid7
  • Security Onion IDS
  • Centrify
  • Backup & Recovery
  • Rubrik
  • Preferred
  • PowerShell / Bash scripting
  • Experience with compliance frameworks (STIGs, RMF, NIST)


Operational Expectations
  • Support a 24/7 operational environment
  • Participate in a rotational on-call schedule
  • Must be able to respond (Return-to-Base) within 2 hours, including travel if required
  • Support after-hours maintenance windows and incident response


What Sets This Role Apart
  • Direct ownership of mission-critical systems supporting real-world operations
  • Opportunity to work in secure, high-impact environments
  • Exposure to both legacy infrastructure challenges and modernization efforts
  • Ability to drive meaningful improvements, not just maintain status quo


Who We're Looking For an Engineer Who:
  • Has operated in cleared environments and understands the constraints
  • Can walk into a complex, imperfect system and make it better
  • Doesn't wait for direction-identifies problems and solves them
  • Is trusted to handle high-pressure situations without supervision
  • Brings both technical depth and operational accountability


Bottom Line

If you're looking for a role where:
  • Your work directly supports critical operations
  • You have real ownership and responsibility
  • And your impact is immediate and visible


Original Posting:
September 2, 2026

Pay Range:
Pay Range $116,350.00 - $210,325.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Explore Career Opportunities

Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

Innovation and Professional Growth

At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

Join the Team

Leidos Holding is hiring! Explore job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Leidos Holding looks for driven, curious, and innovative individuals to join their team. Positions are available across various disciplines and experience levels.

Stay Connected

Stay informed with the latest career tips, industry insights, and company news from Leidos Holding. Subscribe to receive updates and be the first to know about new job opportunities, company developments, and more.

Prepare for Your Interview

To prepare for an interview at Leidos Holding, candidates should familiarize themselves with the company's missions and values, update their resumes, and be ready to discuss how their background and skills align with the position they are applying for.

Networking and Career Advancement

Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

Explore Leidos Holding Jobs and Careers

Discover the exciting career opportunities at Leidos Holding today. With a commitment to employee growth, innovation, and diversity, Leidos Holding is the perfect place to advance your career. Check out the latest job listings and find your perfect fit at Leidos Holding.

SEARCH LEIDOS HOLDING JOBS

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences from Leidos Holding. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await in your professional journey.
Learn more about Leidos Holding

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Leidos Holding

More Information Technology Jobs

Find similar Windows Systems Administrator jobs: