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Senior Systems Administrator - Contract

South San Francisco, CA
Aechelon Technology, Inc. is a leading producer of 3D simulator content, including Geospecific visual/sensor databases and realistic 3D models. We seek people who share our passion for real-time computer graphics and commitment to our mission of helping make our Nation’s pilots safer. We will give you a chance to work with some of the most talented people in the graphics industry. 
 
We seek a skilled Senior IT Systems Administrator to play a critical role in managing and securing our IT infrastructure. This position is ideal for a self-starter with extensive experience in hybrid Microsoft environments, security, automation, and troubleshooting.
 
The ideal candidate will have expertise in managing Hybrid Active Directory, Microsoft Exchange, Proofpoint email security, Microsoft Defender for Endpoints, and Windows Server environments, along with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail..
 
The Hybrid Work requirement for this role consists of 2 days per week in-office at the company’s South San Francisco location, while the remaining 3 days per week can be worked remotely from a home office.
 
This role is a contract position with an anticipated duration of 6 months.
United States citizenship required due to restrictions on access to certain data.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Microsoft Exchange Administration
    • Administer, monitor, and maintain hybrid Exchange 2016 and Exchange Online infrastructure.
    • Troubleshoot mail flow, Microsoft Entra Connect, and third-party service integrations (e.g., NetSuite, ADP, Lever).
    • Administer Proofpoint email security solutions to enhance protection against spam, malware, and phishing threats.
    • Plan and execute system upgrades, patches, and configurations for optimal performance.
  • Hybrid Active Directory & Entra ID Management
    • Install, configure, and secure Domain Controllers (DCs) and manage GPOs.
    • Administer Azure AD Connect for hybrid AD synchronization and manage conditional access policies.
  • Endpoint Security & Microsoft Defender for Endpoints
    • Configure and manage endpoint security policies using Group Policy and Microsoft Security Portal.
    • Conduct threat analysis and respond to security incidents following IT protocols.
    • Perform vulnerability scans and collaborate on remediation strategies.
  • Windows Server & Infrastructure Administration
    • Automate and standardize Windows Server deployment (physical/virtual).
    • Maintain Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS) for secure communications.
    • Manage Intel AMT/vPro servers for remote workstation administration.
    • Administer Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) for patch management and compliance.
    • Collaborate with vendors on new product evaluations and proof of concepts.
  • Dell PowerScale (Isilon) Cluster Administration
    • Serve as the primary administrator for Dell PowerScale (Isilon) storage.
    • Create and manage file shares and quotas according to company policies.
    • Troubleshoot and remediate hardware failures, performance issues, and connectivity problems.
  • Backup Responsibilities & Additional IT Duties
    • Provide backup support for physical access control systems (S2 Lenel).
    • Work with cross-functional teams to support security and infrastructure initiatives.

Required Skills & Experience:

  • 5+ years managing Hybrid Microsoft Exchange Server and Microsoft Exchange Online.
  • 5+ years supporting Hybrid Microsoft AD & Entra ID environments.
  • Experience with Microsoft Defender for Endpoints and enterprise endpoint security solutions.
  • Proficiency in PowerShell or Python scripting for task automation.
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills with the ability to work independently.
  • Bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or equivalent experience (6+ years).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in a help desk escalation role for 150+ users.
  • Familiarity with JIRA, Confluence or Perforce for IT documentation and issue tracking.
  • Relevant certifications (e.g., Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate).
  • SAN Administration experience is a plus

 Additional Requirements:

  • U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency (due to export-controlled materials).
  • Ability to respond to urgent infrastructure needs and manage IT service tickets effectively.

Supervisory Requirements:

  • None

Salary Range: $70 - $80 USD per hour

The above range is specific to CALIFORNIA and may not be applicable to other locations. The pay scale for this role is between $70 - $80 per hour. Final compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience.

For more information about our company, please visit www.aechelon.com

This position description is not intended to be a complete listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee holding this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may be changed or others may be assigned at any time by the Company with notice to the employee. 

Aechelon Technology is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing access and opportunities to individuals with disabilities. If you are an applicant who is unable to fully utilize/access our application process because of a disability, Aechelon Technology will provide a reasonable accommodation. Please send an email to hr_team@aechelon.com to request that accommodation, and please be sure to include a detailed description of your requested accommodation, your name and preferred method of contact.

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