Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Classified Senior System Administrator
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland, United States, 20724
Join to apply for the
Classified Senior System Administrator
role at
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory .
This role is located at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) and offers a competitive pay range based on skills and experience. Please consult with your recruiter for specific compensation details.
Pay Range Base pay: $100,000.00 – $227,500.00 per year.
Job Description Do you thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic classified environment? Are you ready to take ownership of complex systems and help elevate team performance? APL, ranked by Computerworld as one of the Top Places to Work in IT, is seeking a System Administrator with extensive classified systems experience to manage, secure, and evolve our mission‑critical environments.
Core Responsibilities
Manage, configure, and maintain a wide range of classified IT systems including VMware, Microsoft Exchange, Windows Server, and enterprise storage and backup platforms.
Oversee VMware vCenter, ESXi, and Horizon VDI (RDSH and Desktop) environments, ensuring stability, scalability, and security across multiple networks.
Administer Microsoft technologies including Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, Certificate Authority, WSUS patching, SQL, and SharePoint.
Manage Exchange environments, including mail routing, malware filtering, and tuning for performance and security.
Design, deploy, and maintain Dell and NetApp enterprise storage systems and manage backup infrastructures using platforms such as Rubrik, CommVault, Veeam, or NetBackup.
Ensure compliance with DoD and APL security requirements by applying STIGs, remediating vulnerabilities via Tenable Nessus, and maintaining audit‑ready documentation.
Implement security measures, configure access controls, and maintain logging and patch management processes across systems and applications.
Collaborate with networking, cybersecurity, and development teams to support infrastructure projects, migrations, and upgrades.
Develop and maintain system documentation, SOPs, and recovery plans; continuously refine processes to enhance efficiency and reliability.
Mentor junior administrators, promote technical growth within the team, and contribute to a positive, solutions‑driven culture.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
At least 5 years of hands‑on experience administering and securing classified systems within DoD or similar environments.
Proven expertise with VMware (vCenter, ESXi, Horizon), Microsoft Server technologies (AD, DNS, DHCP, GPO), and enterprise storage and backup systems.
Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and documentation skills, with an ability to solve complex infrastructure challenges independently.
Experience applying STIGs, managing POA&Ms, and ensuring DoD compliance across multiple systems.
Current DoD 8140/8570 IAT Level II or higher certification (e.g., Security+, CISSP).
An active Secret clearance and eligibility to obtain a Top‑Secret clearance (U.S. citizenship required).
Preferred Credentials
Master’s degree in Information Systems, Cybersecurity, or Computer Science.
Advanced certifications such as VMware Certified Professional (VCP), MCSE, or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE).
Experience with PowerShell or Python scripting to automate tasks and optimize workflows.
Experience configuring Arista and Cisco network switches.
Experience configuring Palo Alto firewalls.
Proficiency with Rubrik, NetApp, Dell Unity, or S3‑compatible storage solutions.
Leadership experience, mentorship, or introduction of process improvements in classified or enterprise environments.
Understanding and application of disaster recovery and business continuity best practices for virtualized and hybrid infrastructures.
Active Top‑Secret clearance or higher.
About Us The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. We celebrate diversity and encourage creativity and bold new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Classified Senior System Administrator
role at
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory .
This role is located at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) and offers a competitive pay range based on skills and experience. Please consult with your recruiter for specific compensation details.
Pay Range Base pay: $100,000.00 – $227,500.00 per year.
Job Description Do you thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic classified environment? Are you ready to take ownership of complex systems and help elevate team performance? APL, ranked by Computerworld as one of the Top Places to Work in IT, is seeking a System Administrator with extensive classified systems experience to manage, secure, and evolve our mission‑critical environments.
Core Responsibilities
Manage, configure, and maintain a wide range of classified IT systems including VMware, Microsoft Exchange, Windows Server, and enterprise storage and backup platforms.
Oversee VMware vCenter, ESXi, and Horizon VDI (RDSH and Desktop) environments, ensuring stability, scalability, and security across multiple networks.
Administer Microsoft technologies including Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, Certificate Authority, WSUS patching, SQL, and SharePoint.
Manage Exchange environments, including mail routing, malware filtering, and tuning for performance and security.
Design, deploy, and maintain Dell and NetApp enterprise storage systems and manage backup infrastructures using platforms such as Rubrik, CommVault, Veeam, or NetBackup.
Ensure compliance with DoD and APL security requirements by applying STIGs, remediating vulnerabilities via Tenable Nessus, and maintaining audit‑ready documentation.
Implement security measures, configure access controls, and maintain logging and patch management processes across systems and applications.
Collaborate with networking, cybersecurity, and development teams to support infrastructure projects, migrations, and upgrades.
Develop and maintain system documentation, SOPs, and recovery plans; continuously refine processes to enhance efficiency and reliability.
Mentor junior administrators, promote technical growth within the team, and contribute to a positive, solutions‑driven culture.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
At least 5 years of hands‑on experience administering and securing classified systems within DoD or similar environments.
Proven expertise with VMware (vCenter, ESXi, Horizon), Microsoft Server technologies (AD, DNS, DHCP, GPO), and enterprise storage and backup systems.
Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and documentation skills, with an ability to solve complex infrastructure challenges independently.
Experience applying STIGs, managing POA&Ms, and ensuring DoD compliance across multiple systems.
Current DoD 8140/8570 IAT Level II or higher certification (e.g., Security+, CISSP).
An active Secret clearance and eligibility to obtain a Top‑Secret clearance (U.S. citizenship required).
Preferred Credentials
Master’s degree in Information Systems, Cybersecurity, or Computer Science.
Advanced certifications such as VMware Certified Professional (VCP), MCSE, or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE).
Experience with PowerShell or Python scripting to automate tasks and optimize workflows.
Experience configuring Arista and Cisco network switches.
Experience configuring Palo Alto firewalls.
Proficiency with Rubrik, NetApp, Dell Unity, or S3‑compatible storage solutions.
Leadership experience, mentorship, or introduction of process improvements in classified or enterprise environments.
Understanding and application of disaster recovery and business continuity best practices for virtualized and hybrid infrastructures.
Active Top‑Secret clearance or higher.
About Us The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. We celebrate diversity and encourage creativity and bold new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.
#J-18808-Ljbffr