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Entry Level Network Administrator Jobs in Reston, VA

Collaborating with system engineers, administrators, and DevSecOps teams to integrate security ... From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe theres always room to learn. We offer ...

Cable Technician

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Install, secure, and organize network and server equipment within racks and cabinets according to ... Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Chantilly ...

Cable Technician

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Install, secure, and organize network and server equipment within racks and cabinets according to ... Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Chantilly ...

Green Card holders or US Citizens only Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a ... With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada ...

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Entry Level Network Administrator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$34.9K

$85K

$129K

How much do entry level network administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network administrator in Reston, VA is $85,048.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,100.00 and $97,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level network administrators during their first year on the job?

Entry level network administrators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unfamiliar network issues, adapting to organization-specific protocols, and balancing multiple support requests simultaneously. Learning to efficiently document changes and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical staff is also crucial. With time, gaining confidence in using network monitoring tools and responding to security alerts becomes easier, and many organizations provide mentorship or structured training to help new administrators succeed.

What Does an Entry-Level Network Administrator Do?

As an entry-level network administrator, your job is to learn how to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair a network system. To accomplish this, you may purchase and replace hardware, train with the company's existing software, and provide service to either customers or coworkers. As an entry-level employee, your primary job is learning about your company's systems, which may frequently involve watching other administrators and providing minor support to a customer. Most companies use this position as a training role with the intention of promoting you to a full network administrator after you meet their criteria. Entry-level network administrators often use software to monitor network performance and analyze traffic.

How to become a network administrator with no experience?

To become an entry-level network administrator with no experience, focus on gaining foundational knowledge of networking concepts through online courses or self-study, and obtain relevant certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA. Practical experience can be built by setting up home labs, volunteering for IT tasks, or participating in internships to develop skills in network configuration, troubleshooting, and security.

Can I become a sysadmin without a degree?

Entry level network administrators can often enter the field without a degree by gaining relevant certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA, and developing practical skills through hands-on experience. Employers may prioritize skills, certifications, and experience over formal education for such roles.

What does an Entry Level Network Administrator do?

An Entry Level Network Administrator is responsible for supporting and maintaining an organization’s computer networks. Their tasks typically include monitoring network performance, troubleshooting connectivity issues, setting up network hardware, and assisting with network security measures. They work under the supervision of more experienced IT staff to ensure reliable and efficient network operations. This role is a great starting point for those looking to build a career in network administration or IT.

What is the difference between Entry Level Network Administrator vs Network Technician?

AspectEntry Level Network AdministratorNetwork Technician
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (optional)CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (optional)
Work EnvironmentNetwork management, configuration, troubleshooting, and monitoringHardware setup, cabling, on-site troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, service providers, corporate networksTelecom companies, ISPs, enterprise networks

Both roles often require similar certifications like CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA. While a Network Technician focuses more on hardware and physical network setup, an Entry Level Network Administrator handles network configuration, management, and troubleshooting. The roles are complementary, with the administrator overseeing network health and the technician implementing physical infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Network Administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Network Administrator, you need a fundamental understanding of networking concepts, TCP/IP protocols, and at least an associate degree or relevant certification such as CompTIA Network+. Familiarity with network management tools, basic command-line utilities, and operating systems like Windows and Linux is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you diagnose and resolve network issues efficiently. These skills ensure reliable network operations and support the organization's IT infrastructure needs.

Is network administrator an entry-level job?

A network administrator role can be entry-level, especially for those with basic knowledge of networking concepts, operating systems, and certifications like CompTIA Network+. However, many positions require some prior experience or technical skills, and advanced roles often demand additional certifications or experience. Entry-level positions typically involve supporting existing networks and learning on the job.

What is a typical sysadmin salary?

A typical entry-level network administrator salary ranges from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA. Salaries tend to increase with experience, additional skills, and specialized tools knowledge, such as network security or cloud platforms.
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Administrator jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Network Administrator jobs in Reston, VA are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Network Administrator jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Network Administrator jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Network Administrator jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Network Administrator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Administrator job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,048 per year, or $40.9 per hour.
Jr Cyber Security Engineer

Full-time

Posted 5 hours ago


Job description

Summary

Jr Cyber Security Engineer

Vienna, VA

Are you ready to enhance your skills and build your career in a rapidly evolving business climate? Are you looking for a career where professional development is embedded in your employer’s core culture? If so, Chenega Military, Intelligence & Operations Support (MIOS) could be the place for you! Join our team of professionals who support large-scale government operations by leveraging cutting-edge technology and take your career to the next level!  

Chenega Agile Real-Time Solutions (CARS) was created with the purpose of providing integrated enterprise IT support to Federal customers both CONUS and OCONUS. CARS employs Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) with decades of experience working in the Federal marketplace. 

A Jr Cyber Security Engineer supports critical DoD and Intel missions and programs. This role focuses on cybersecurity engineering, risk management, and compliance across the cloud

and on-prem systems, supporting system authorization, vulnerability management, and

secure operations in classified environments.


Responsibilities
  • Applying RMF processes to support system Assessment & Authorization (A&A), including control selection, implementation, assessment, and continuous monitoring
  • Developing, reviewing, and maintaining security documentation such as SSPs, POA&Ms, SARs, and ATO artifacts in tools such as XACTA or eMASS
  • Conducting vulnerability assessments and compliance scans (e.g., ACAS) and tracking remediation of findings and IAVM requirements
  • Implementing and validating security controls aligned with NIST 800-53, CNSSI 1253, and related DoD guidance
  • Supporting system hardening, patching, and configuration management in compliance with STIGs for Linux, Windows, and network devices
  • Monitoring systems for security events and supporting incident response and risk mitigation activities
  • Assessing security impacts of system changes and supporting configuration control boards (CCBs)
  • Collaborating with system engineers, administrators, and DevSecOps teams to integrate security throughout the system lifecycle
  • Providing cybersecurity risk input to program leadership, Authorizing Officials (AOs), and stakeholders
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree with 1+ years of experience (or equivalent experience)
    • Experience with RMF, A&A, POA&M, and ATO documentation (XACTA/eMASS)
    • Experience securing Linux and Windows systems, STIGs, patching, and system hardening
  • DoD 8570 IAT Level II or higher certification (e.g., Security+, CySA+, CISSP)
  • Active or Current (within two years of active) Top Secret Security Clearance with SCI eligibility

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Scripting or development experience (Python, Java, React)
  • DevSecOps tools and pipeline experience
  • Experience with Linux (Red Hat/CentOS), databases, web apps, or big data platforms
  • Familiarity with Agile environments and tools (Jira, Confluence)
  • Experience with NIST SP 800-171 and System Security Engineering (SSE)

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Ability to work independently and yet be effective within a team setting
  • Must be capable of managing multiple efforts with time-related constraints in a fast-paced contracting environment
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse internal and external stakeholder groups and individuals
  • Friendly presence, helpful attitude, good interpersonal skills, and ability to work well with others.
  • Excellent skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and other Office applications
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Applications, and experience working in a home office setting, as well as the ability to train end users on frequently asked technical issues.
  • Ability to provide technical assistance and support over the phone; good phone skills, professional demeanor, and previous customer service experience strongly desired.
  • Good problem-solving skills; ability to visualize a problem/situation and think abstractly to solve it
  • Hands-on vulnerability scanning and compliance tracking (ACAS, IAVM)
  • Knowledge of NIST 800-series publications and incident response processes
  • Strong analytical, communication, and collaboration skills

How you’ll grow  

At Chenega MIOS, our professional development plan focuses on helping our team members at every level of their careers to identify and use their strengths to do their best work every day. From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe there’s always room to learn.  

We offer opportunities to help sharpen skills in addition to hands-on experience in the global, fast-changing business world. From on-the-job learning experiences to formal development programs, our professionals have a variety of opportunities to continue to grow throughout their careers.  

Benefits  

At Chenega MIOS, we know that great people make a great organization. We value our team members and offer them a broad range of benefits.  

Learn more about what working at Chenega MIOS can mean for you.  

Chenega MIOS’s culture  

Our positive and supportive culture encourages our team members to do their best work every day. We celebrate individuals by recognizing their uniqueness and offering them the flexibility to make daily choices that can help them be healthy, centered, confident, and aware. We offer well-being programs and continuously look for new ways to maintain a culture where we excel and lead healthy, happy lives.  

Corporate citizenship  

Chenega MIOS is led by a purpose to make an impact that matters. This purpose defines who we are and extends to relationships with our clients, our team members, and our communities. We believe that business has the power to inspire and transform. We focus on education, giving, skill-based volunteerism, and leadership to help drive positive social impact in our communities.  

Learn more about Chenega’s impact on the world.  

Chenega MIOS News- https://chenegamios.com/news/  

Tips from your Talent Acquisition Team  

We want job seekers exploring opportunities at Chenega MIOS to feel prepared and confident. To help you with your research, we suggest you review the following links:  

Chenega MIOS web site - www.chenegamios.com  

Glassdoor - https://www.glassdoor.com/Overview/Working-at-Chenega-MIOS-EI_IE369514.11,23.htm  

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/1472684/  

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/chenegamios/ 

#Chenega Agile Real Time Solutions, LLC