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Cyber Systems Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cyber Systems Administrator

Herndon, VA · On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Responsibilities Currently seeking a Cyber Systems Administrator to support an Intel Community (IC) customer in the Herndon, Virginia area. The Systems Administrator provides mid-level operational ...

Responsibilities Currently seeking a Cyber Systems Administrator to support an Intel Community (IC) customer in the Herndon, Virginia area. The Systems Administrator provides mid-level operational ...

Responsibilities Currently seeking a Cyber Systems Administrator to support an Intel Community (IC) customer in the Herndon, Virginia area. The Systems Administrator provides mid-level operational ...

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Cyber Systems Administrator information

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$65.5K

$90.9K

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How much do cyber systems administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber systems administrator in the United States is $90,944.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is SOC an entry level job?

A Security Operations Center (SOC) analyst role is typically not entry-level and usually requires some experience in cybersecurity, network administration, or related fields. Entry-level positions in cybersecurity may be labeled as SOC analyst I or junior analyst, but higher-tier SOC roles often demand certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP and practical skills in threat detection and incident response.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cyber Systems Administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cyber Systems Administrator, you need strong knowledge of network administration, cybersecurity principles, and systems management, often supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA. Familiarity with operating systems (Windows, Linux), virtualization platforms, and security monitoring tools is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for quickly addressing security incidents and collaborating with IT teams. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining secure, reliable system environments and defending against evolving cyber threats.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Cyber Systems Administrators typically earn salaries below $200,000 annually, with higher earnings possible for senior or specialized roles such as cybersecurity managers or consultants. Reaching a $500,000 annual salary generally requires advanced positions, extensive experience, certifications like CISSP or CISA, and often involves leadership or consulting responsibilities. Such high salaries are uncommon for entry- or mid-level roles in cybersecurity.

What is a typical sysadmin salary?

A Cyber Systems Administrator typically earns a median salary ranging from $60,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications like CompTIA or Cisco can earn higher salaries. Salaries also vary based on the size and industry of the organization and the complexity of the systems managed.

What is a cyber systems administrator?

A cyber systems administrator is a professional responsible for managing and maintaining an organization’s computer networks, servers, and security systems. They configure firewalls, monitor network activity, and implement security protocols to protect against cyber threats, often requiring knowledge of cybersecurity tools and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP.

What does a Cyber Systems Administrator do?

A Cyber Systems Administrator is responsible for maintaining, securing, and optimizing an organization's computer systems and networks. Their duties include installing software and hardware, monitoring for security breaches, managing user access and permissions, and ensuring systems are up-to-date with the latest security patches. They also troubleshoot technical issues, back up data, and implement cybersecurity measures to protect against threats. This role is crucial for keeping business operations running smoothly and securely.

What is the difference between Cyber Systems Administrator vs Network Security Specialist?

AspectCyber Systems AdministratorNetwork Security Specialist
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, Cisco CCNACompTIA Security+, CISSP, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentIT departments, data centers, cloud environmentsSecurity operations centers, cybersecurity firms, IT teams
Employer & Industry UsageOrganizations managing IT infrastructure and systemsOrganizations focusing on cybersecurity and threat mitigation
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for cybersecurity roles involving system managementFocuses more on protecting networks from threats

The Cyber Systems Administrator and Network Security Specialist roles share certifications and work environments but differ in focus. The administrator manages overall system operations, while the security specialist concentrates on protecting networks from threats. Both roles are vital in cybersecurity teams, with overlapping skills but distinct responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Cyber Systems Administrators, and how can they be effectively managed?

Cyber Systems Administrators often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving security threats, managing system updates across diverse platforms, and balancing security with usability for end-users. Staying current with the latest cybersecurity trends and regularly participating in training can help address these challenges. Additionally, collaborating closely with IT teams and end-users fosters a proactive approach to identifying vulnerabilities and implementing effective solutions, ensuring systems remain secure and operational.
What cities are hiring for Cyber Systems Administrator jobs? Cities with the most Cyber Systems Administrator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Cyber Systems Administrator jobs? The top employers for Cyber Systems Administrator jobs are:
What states have the most Cyber Systems Administrator jobs? States with the most job openings for Cyber Systems Administrator jobs include:
Cyber Systems Administrator

Cyber Systems Administrator

Peraton

Herndon, VA • On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Peraton rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 204 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities
Currently seeking a Cyber Systems Administrator to support an Intel Community (IC) customer in the Herndon, Virginia area.
The Systems Administrator provides mid-level operational support for enterprise information systems within classified environments. This role is execution-focused and emphasizes privileged system administration, security tool operations, log analysis, scripting, and audit evidence production. Systems Administrator IV supports ongoing Authorization to Operate (ATO) activities by maintaining system security posture, generating technical artifacts, and implementing approved security controls under the direction of Information System Security Officers (ISSOs), System Engineers, and audit leads or audit SMEs.
This position requires hands-on experience administering Windows and Linux systems, executing Splunk queries, developing operational scripts, and supporting compliance activities through accurate and timely evidence generation.
Systems Administrator responsibilities for conducting information system activities for new or existing system(s) may include, but not limited to, the following:
  • Perform Systems Administrator activities for Windows and Linux environments, including configuration, hardening, patching, and operational sustainment.
  • Maintain and operate systems requiring privileged user access, ensuring least-privilege enforcement and auditability.
  • Support system lifecycle activities including design changes, re-engineering efforts, upgrades, and performance tuning.
  • Troubleshoot complex system issues across infrastructure, applications, and security tooling.
  • Develop, maintain, and optimize Splunk searches, dashboards, and alerts to support, Security monitoring, audit evidence collection, and operational troubleshooting
  • Write and refine Search Processing Language (SPL) queries to extract, correlate, and validate log data across multiple data sources.
  • Ensure log sources are properly onboarded, retained, and aligned with audit and compliance requirements.
  • Develop and maintain scripts (e.g., PowerShell, Bash, Python, SQL) to automate data collection for audits, validate system configurations, and support continuous monitoring activities
  • Assist with automating evidence generation for recurring FISCAM, RMF, and internal audits.
  • Provide technical support to Audit SMEs and ISSOs by producing, validating, and explaining system-level artifacts required for FISCAM audits and RMF assessments.
  • Support documentation and validation of technical controls related to logging and monitoring, configuration management, access control, system integrity
  • Assist in responding to audit findings, including root cause analysis and technical remediation.
  • Work closely with ISSOs, ISSEs, auditors, and operations teams to ensure systems are both secure and operationally effective.
  • Translate technical system behavior into clear, defensible explanations for auditors and assessors.
  • Participate in engineering reviews, change control boards, and security assessments as needed.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in an area relevant to the position and 8+ years of relevant experience; Master's degree in an area to the position and 6+ years of relevant experience; or 4+ additional years of experience in lieu of a degree.
  • TS/SCI with polygraph clearance adjudication or ability to obtain SCI and pass a poly
  • Hold active Security+, CISSP, CISA, or equivalent certifications (DoD 8570 IAM 2 equivalent)
  • One (1) year of experience with IC Community
  • Experience in systems engineering or system administration in enterprise environments.
  • Hands-on experience with Splunk (searches, dashboards, or administration).
  • Experience using scripting or query languages (PowerShell, Bash, Python, SQL).
  • Familiarity with RMF, ATO processes, and audit support in federal environments.
  • Ability to operate with privileged system access in classified environments.
  • Proven experience with Linux/RedHat 8 or higher, Windows Server 2019 or higher and/or Networking Appliances in Virtualized/Cloud platforms (VMSphere or AWS)
  • Proven experience with Oracle 19C or higher or SQL 2019 or higher database systems
  • Proven experience with DISA Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG) implementation and Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) tool usage
  • Hands on experience performing Systems Security tasks including: Security Information and Event Monitoring (Splunk); Endpoint security (HBSS); Compliance and vulnerability scanning (ACAS / Nessus)
  • Demonstrated experience with creating and validating evidence for NIST security controls.
  • Experience using and maintaining records in Xacta

Desired Qualifications:
  • Skilled in implementing mitigation strategies and how to resolve problems, and to re-test/ re-evaluate systems
  • Experience with IT general controls (ITGC), Financial Information System Control Audit Manual (FISCAM), and National Institute of Standards and Technology Special Publication (NIST) 800-53v4
  • Experience with performing Security Control Assessment in compliance with NIST SP 800- 37, NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-53A, and other NIST 800 guide series
  • IT audit advisory experience
  • Experience with effective policy, instruction, and development for Federal or DoD Information Security Programs
  • Experience with risk analysis and assessment determinations incorporating system/mission owner, and unique operational constraints
  • Possess a working knowledge of administrating servers, system and application security threats and vulnerabilities
  • Experience extending existing applications in areas such as security, monitoring, task automation, continuous integration, deployment, and performance optimization

Peraton offers enhanced benefits to employees working on this critical National Security program, which include heavily subsidized employee benefits coverage for you and your dependents, 25 days of PTO accrued annually up to a generous PTO cap and eligible to participate in an attractive bonus plan
Peraton Overview
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.
Target Salary Range
$112,000 - $179,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
EEO
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017