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System Administrator

Arcfield

Washington, DC · Posted September 23, 2026

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Pay compared with the market

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Skills this job asks for

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  • Python
  • Kubernetes
  • Linux
  • Docker
  • Git

About the job

Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Mid-Level Linux-Focused System Administrator to join our dynamic team at the Navel Research Lab (NRL) supporting mission-critical systems and lab infrastructures. This role demands a seasoned professional with deep technical expertise, a proactive mindset to oversee suites of hardware and software infrastructure components within high performance lab environments in addition to supporting the development and implementation of customer driven requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and maintain lab environments to ensure optimal performance, availability, and scalability.

Design, configure, and maintain Linux operating systems

Manage LAN/WAN system requirements.

Implement and maintain cybersecurity protocols to safeguard software, operating systems, and networks.

Apply encryption standards and protocols to secure sensitive data and communications.

Develop and maintain scripts using Bash, PowerShell, Ansible, or Python to automate system tasks and deployments.

Support and oversee software builds and version control using Git, ensuring alignment with evolving government and end-user requirements.

Translate complex technical requirements into clear, actionable plans and communicate effectively across teams.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams in fast-paced environments to deliver reliable and secure system solutions.

Systems Administrator III, I08, ITSAEI08

Qualifications

Requirements & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Engineering or related technical field.

5-7 years of hands-on experience in Linux system administration - BS 5-7 Years, MS 3-5, PhD 0-2

Extensive experience with hardware and software infrastructure components.

In-depth knowledge of security practices and protocols, including firewalls, encryption, and access controls.

Working knowledge of implementing DOD security standards (e.g. STIGs)

Familiarity with scripting and automation tools.

Demonstrated success managing technical delivery in government or defense-related projects.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Must have a US SECRET DOD security clearance with the ability to obtain a TS.

Preferred Qualifications

Proficiency with hypervisors (VMWare, Proxmox) and container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).

Knowledge of scripting languages such as Python or Bash for automation.

Prior experience with DOD contracting and familiarity with Naval Research Lab (NRL) environments.

Equal Pay Act

This is the projected compensation range for this position. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories. In addition, Arcfield invests in its employees beyond just compensation. Arcfield ’s benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, Short Term and Long-Term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.

Min: $84,975.05 Max: $147,755.13 EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and federal government contractor. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment as protected by law.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Mid-Level Linux-Focused System Administrator to join our dynamic team at the Navel Research Lab (NRL) supporting mission-critical systems and lab infrastructures. This role demands a seasoned professional with deep technical expertise, a proactive mindset to oversee suites of hardware and software infrastructure components within high performance lab environments in addition to supporting the development and implementation of customer driven requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and maintain lab environments to ensure optimal performance, availability, and scalability.

Design, configure, and maintain Linux operating systems

Manage LAN/WAN system requirements.

Implement and maintain cybersecurity protocols to safeguard software, operating systems, and networks.

Apply encryption standards and protocols to secure sensitive data and communications.

Develop and maintain scripts using Bash, PowerShell, Ansible, or Python to automate system tasks and deployments.

Support and oversee software builds and version control using Git, ensuring alignment with evolving government and end-user requirements.

Translate complex technical requirements into clear, actionable plans and communicate effectively across teams.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams in fast-paced environments to deliver reliable and secure system solutions.

Systems Administrator III, I08, ITSAEI08

Requirements & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Engineering or related technical field.

5-7 years of hands-on experience in Linux system administration - BS 5-7 Years, MS 3-5, PhD 0-2

Extensive experience with hardware and software infrastructure components.

In-depth knowledge of security practices and protocols, including firewalls, encryption, and access controls.

Working knowledge of implementing DOD security standards (e.g. STIGs)

Familiarity with scripting and automation tools.

Demonstrated success managing technical delivery in government or defense-related projects.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Must have a US SECRET DOD security clearance with the ability to obtain a TS.

Preferred Qualifications

Proficiency with hypervisors (VMWare, Proxmox) and container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).

Knowledge of scripting languages such as Python or Bash for automation.

Prior experience with DOD contracting and familiarity with Naval Research Lab (NRL) environments.