Job Information
Tecolote Research, Inc. Senior Systems Administrator in Arlington, Virginia
Overview We are seeking a skilled and self-driven Systems Administrator with strong expertise in cloud services, Microsoft enterprise technologies, virtualization, and modern security platforms The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with AWS, Microsoft 365/Intune, VMware, and Zscaler, and will play a key role in maintaining secure, scalable, and well-documented systems. This position is best suited to someone who enjoys solving technical challenges, improving infrastructure through automation and best practices, and operating with autonomy in a dynamic environment. Responsibilities
Responsibilities
Cloud and Enterprise Services Manage AWS environments and implement infrastructure-as-code using Terraform Administer Microsoft 365 and Exchange Online Configure and manage Intune for device/application security
Network Security and Access Maintain and optimize Zscaler (ZIA, ZPA, ZDX) Implement security policies, access controls, and monitoring standards
Infrastructure and Virtualization Maintain VMware vSphere 8 (vCenter, ESXi, Horizon View) Administer Windows Server roles (AD, DNS, DHCP, IIS, BitLocker)
Skills Required
Qualifications Required 4+ years experience in systems administration or similar role 2+ Experience with AWS, Microsoft 365/Exchange, VMware, Zscaler Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills Ability to operate independently and collaboratively
Preferred Certifications in one or more: AWS, Microsoft, VMware, or Zscaler Scripting/automation background Familiarity with compliance and regulatory frameworks relevant to IT (e.g., CMMC, NIST 800-171 or C-SCRM).
Additional Value-add Skills PowerShell/Python automation skills Enterprise hardware management (PowerEdge, SANs, Unifi) Understanding of CMMC, NIST, or C-SCRM frameworks Experience tuning Defender, Horizon View, or IIS Strong documentation + communication capability
Candidates who meet 70-80% of the core requirements are encouraged to apply we value growth, curiosity, and capability over perfection.
Education Bachelors degree preferred, preferably in management information systems, math or engineering. Additional degrees or certifications may subsitute for years of experience.
Benefits We offer competitive salaries commensurate with education and experience. We have an excellent benefits package that includes: Comprehensive health, dental, life, long and short-term disability insurance 100% Company funded Retirement Plans Generous vacation, holiday and sick pay plans Tuition assistance
About Tecolote Research Tecolote Research is a private, employee-owned corporation where people are our primary resource. Our investments in technology and training give our employees the tools to ensure our clients are provided the solutions they need, and our very high employee retention rate and stable workforce is an added value to our customers. Apply now to connect with a company that invests in you. View all career opportunities: www.tecolote.com Follow us on social media: LinkedIn | X @TecoloteInc | Facebook [EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans]