Lead Network/Systems Administrator
LightFeather is seeking a Lead Systems/Network Administrator with strong experience in Cybersecurity who will oversee the design, implementation, and security of on-premises IT infrastructure for a federal agency, ensuring compliance with FISMA regulations and maintaining 24x7 operational excellence. This role requires strong leadership, expertise in Windows Server environments, network security, and federal compliance frameworks, as well as the ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders in supporting mission-critical government registry operations.
This role provides the opportunity to lead comprehensive IT infrastructure management and cybersecurity initiatives in the federal sector, ensuring secure, efficient, and compliant systems operations.
- Location: Silver Spring, MD (On-site presence required for emergency response)
- Job Type: Full Time
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship Required
- Clearance Requirement: Public Trust or higher preferred
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee Windows servers (Dell PowerEdge R200s to R530s), network switches (Cisco 2960XR), and SonicWall firewall coordination.
- Conduct Information Security Risk Assessments, maintain FISMA compliance, and implement cybersecurity best practices across all systems.
- Manage Veeam backup solutions, AWS GovCloud integration, and ensure 72-hour recovery time objectives.
- Coordinate DNS services, manage Active Directory, and support SQL Server environments including migration planning.
- Provide 24x7 monitoring support and on-site emergency response for critical system failures.
- Oversee help desk operations with 4-hour response SLA and coordinate resolution of technical support tickets.
- Implement security patches, coordinate system updates, and maintain vulnerability management programs.
- Coordinate with external service providers and serve as technical point of contact for contract administration.
- Serve as primary technical liaison with government stakeholders, third-party vendors, and federal partners.
- Prepare Monthly Status Reports (MSR), maintain Project Management Plans (PMP), and coordinate technical status meetings.
- Maintain technical documentation, compliance reports, and Quality Management Plans (QMP).
Required Qualifications
- U.S. Citizenship required.
- Public Trust clearance or ability to obtain.
- Minimum 7+ years of experience in systems administration, network management, or cybersecurity, with strong focus on Windows Server environments.
- Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator, CompTIA Security+, or equivalent cybersecurity certification preferred.
- Deep understanding of FISMA compliance, risk assessment frameworks, and federal security standards (NIST, RMF).
- Strong expertise in Windows Server 2019, Veeam backup solutions, Active Directory, Cisco networking equipment, and AWS GovCloud.
- Experience with SQL Server administration, backup/recovery operations, and database security implementations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for stakeholder coordination and technical reporting.
Preferred Skills
- Experience working with federal agencies or government IT infrastructure projects.
- Knowledge of SolarWinds monitoring, Redis, and automated monitoring systems.
- Expertise in disaster recovery planning and business continuity operations.
- Project management experience or PMP certification.
Why Join LightFeather?
At LightFeather, you're not just taking a job—you're joining a purpose-driven team that delivers innovative, mission-critical solutions to make a real difference. You'll work on diverse, meaningful projects that challenge and inspire you, alongside some of the best minds in the industry.
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