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Technical Associate

Sterling, VA

Core One is looking for a Technical Associate to join our engineering team. This is a hands-on role built for someone who wants to break into IT and engineering. You'll gain experience across help desk, networking, field tech work, and system administration — exposure most early-career techs don't see for years.

Why This Role

This role goes well beyond traditional help desk work. You'll work alongside engineers on real infrastructure and gain hands-on experience with new technologies. Your contributions will have direct impact, and your professional development is a priority. Previous associates have advanced into network engineering, systems administration, and senior technical roles.

Primary Responsibilities

Tier 1 Support & User Services

  • Provide first-line technical support for end-users, handling troubleshooting requests, password resets, and access provisioning
  • Identify root causes of technical problems and implement effective troubleshooting steps to resolve them
  • Perform basic system administration tasks like user account management, access control, and system updates
  • Provide technical training to end-users on new software applications and system features

Network & Infrastructure Support

  • Monitor and maintain network infrastructure including routers, switches, firewalls, and VPN configurations
  • Assist with network troubleshooting, configuration changes, and performance monitoring
  • Support project-specific network infrastructure under guidance of senior engineers
  • Assist with the installation, configuration, and maintenance of computer hardware, software systems, and hypervisors

Field Operations & On-Site Support

  • Conduct on-site installations, system deployments, and hardware configurations at customer locations
  • Support field operations and customer site engagements, including multi-site deployments
  • Perform site surveys, equipment setup, and customer handoff procedures
  • Travel as needed to support programs and client engagements

Documentation & Collaboration

  • Create and maintain technical documentation including troubleshooting guides, knowledge base articles, runbooks, and process manuals
  • Work with other technical teams to identify and resolve complex issues, ensuring seamless system integration
  • Stay updated on new technologies and product features to effectively support team operations
  • Effectively communicate technical challenges, options considered, and recommended solutions to senior leaders

Professional Development

  • Participate in cross-training program across help desk, network operations, field support, and system administration
  • Evaluate technologies and commercial products for potential customer applicability
  • Must be a self-starter with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision

What We're Looking For

We value initiative and aptitude. Qualified candidates will have:

  • A baseline understanding of hardware, operating systems (Windows, Linux), and networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, DNS, VPNs)
  • Strong problem-solving skills and resourcefulness
  • Clear communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences
  • Willingness to travel
  • Genuine curiosity about how systems work and a commitment to continuous learning
  • A degree is preferred but not required.

Bonus points if you have:

  • 1-3 years' relevant experience in IT support, network administration, or field operations
  • Experience with network monitoring tools and troubleshooting methodologies
  • Hands-on experience with hardware installation and configuration
  • Familiarity with system administration and infrastructure management

What You'll Get

  • Exposure across multiple technical disciplines
  • Hands-on work with new technologies and interesting client projects
  • A team committed to your professional development
  • A clear path to grow into engineering and senior technical roles

Location/Travel

Based in Washington DC area with travel requirements up to 50% depending on project needs. This role provides extensive hands-on experience through customer site deployments and field operations, including extended on-site assignments of 4-6 weeks during major installations. Travel frequency varies by project phase, with heavier periods during active deployments.

About Core One

Our mission is to be at the forefront of devising analytical, operational and technical solutions to our Nation's most complex national security challenges.  In order to achieve our mission, Core One values people first and is comprised of outstanding professionals from the national security community.  Because Core One is committed to seeking top talent, we offer competitive compensation and benefits packages. In addition, Core One is a team-oriented, dynamic and growing company that values exceptional performance.

Core One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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