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Principal Systems Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

$94K - $141K/yr

Northrop Grumman is seeking a Windows Server Administrator/Principal Windows Server Administrator to maintain and enhance Windows Systems and Infrastructure in support of the National Air and Space ...

Raytheon

Principal Systems Administrator

Tucson, AZ

Provide IT systems administration in a heterogeneous Microsoft Windows and Redhat Enterprise Linux environment. * Experience with Windows Server internals or Linux fundamentals to include DNS, DHCP ...

Raytheon

Principal Systems Administrator

Tucson, AZ

Provide IT systems administration in a heterogeneous Microsoft Windows and Redhat Enterprise Linux environment. * Experience with Windows Server internals or Linux fundamentals to include DNS, DHCP ...

Raytheon

Principal Systems Administrator

Tucson, AZ

Provide IT systems administration in a heterogeneous Microsoft Windows and Redhat Enterprise Linux environment. * Experience with Windows Server internals or Linux fundamentals to include DNS, DHCP ...

Raytheon

Principal Systems Administrator

Tucson, AZ

Provide IT systems administration in a heterogeneous Microsoft Windows and Redhat Enterprise Linux environment. * Experience with Windows Server internals or Linux fundamentals to include DNS, DHCP ...

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Principal Systems Administrator information

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$41K

$88.9K

$137.5K

How much do principal systems administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems administrator in the United States is $88,927.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Principal Systems Administrator typically collaborate with other IT teams to ensure system reliability and security?

A Principal Systems Administrator often serves as a key liaison between multiple IT teams, such as network engineering, security, and application development. They coordinate activities like system upgrades, incident response, and vulnerability assessments, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and aligned. Regular collaboration occurs through meetings, documentation, and project management tools, allowing for efficient troubleshooting and proactive risk mitigation. This cross-functional teamwork helps maintain robust, secure, and high-performing IT infrastructure.

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

To thrive as a Principal Systems Administrator, you need deep expertise in systems architecture, troubleshooting, and network management, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in IT or related fields. Familiarity with enterprise operating systems (like Linux and Windows Server), virtualization platforms (such as VMware), and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you manage teams and complex projects effectively. These skills are crucial for maintaining robust, secure IT infrastructure and ensuring business continuity in demanding environments.

What does a principal systems administrator do?

A principal systems administrator oversees the design, implementation, and maintenance of an organization’s IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and security systems. They often lead technical teams, develop policies, and ensure system reliability and security, requiring strong technical skills and certifications such as CISSP or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE).

What is the difference between Principal Systems Administrator vs Systems Administrator?

AspectPrincipal Systems AdministratorSystems Administrator
CredentialsTypically requires advanced certifications like CISSP, VMware, or Cisco certificationsOften requires basic certifications such as CompTIA A+, Network+, or Microsoft Certified
Work EnvironmentHandles complex, enterprise-level systems, often in large organizationsManages day-to-day IT operations, often in smaller teams or companies
ResponsibilitiesDesigns, implements, and oversees large-scale systems and infrastructureMaintains and supports existing systems, troubleshooting issues

The Principal Systems Administrator typically has more advanced certifications and handles complex, enterprise-level systems, while the Systems Administrator focuses on daily system maintenance and support. Both roles are essential in IT operations but differ in scope and responsibility.

What is a Principal Systems Administrator?

A Principal Systems Administrator is a senior-level IT professional responsible for overseeing, managing, and optimizing an organization's computer systems and network infrastructure. They lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of complex systems, ensure security and reliability, and often mentor junior administrators. Their role typically involves troubleshooting advanced technical issues, developing automation scripts, and supporting the strategic IT goals of the organization. Principal Systems Administrators also collaborate with other IT teams to plan for scalability and future technology needs.

Can I become a sysadmin without a degree?

A Principal Systems Administrator role typically requires a strong technical background, which can be gained through hands-on experience, certifications, and self-education rather than a formal degree. Many employers value practical skills, knowledge of operating systems, networking, scripting, and relevant certifications like CompTIA or Cisco, making it possible to pursue this career path without a degree if you develop the necessary expertise. However, some organizations may prefer or require a degree for senior or specialized positions.

Is sysadmin a stressful job?

A principal systems administrator role can be stressful due to the responsibility of maintaining critical IT infrastructure, managing system outages, and ensuring security. The job often requires troubleshooting, working under pressure, and sometimes being on-call outside regular hours. However, experience, proper training, and effective time management can help mitigate stress levels.

How much do sys admins get paid?

The average salary for a Principal Systems Administrator typically ranges from $90,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior sys admins with specialized skills in network security, cloud platforms, or automation tools often earn higher compensation. Salaries can also vary based on the size and industry of the organization.
More about Principal Systems Administrator jobs
What states have the most Principal Systems Administrator jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Systems Administrator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Principal Systems Administrator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Systems Administrator jobs are:
Principal Systems Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Systems Administrator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,927 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
Principal Systems Administrator

Principal Systems Administrator

Envision Innovative Solutions

Annapolis Junction, MD

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Envision Innovative Solutions
Current Job Openings >> Principal Systems Administrator
Principal Systems Administrator
Summary
Title: Principal Systems Administrator ID: 1039 Department: Mission Intelligence and Cyber Location: Annapolis Junction, Maryland Clearance Requirements: TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph
Description
Envision Innovative Solutions, delivers mission-focused technology solutions to the defense and  Intelligence Community. Since 2006, we have supported critical national security programs by building high-performing engineering teams and developing innovative enterprise solutions. Our engineers work in a collaborative, zero-bureaucracy environment where expertise is valued, ideas are heard, and contributions directly drive mission success. 
Envision is seeking a motivated, career, and customer-oriented Principal Systems Administrator to join our team in Annapolis Junction, Maryland. This position is onsite.
Primary Responsibilities:
    Provide support for implementation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of IT systems
    Provides support to IT systems including day-to-day operations, monitoring and problem resolution for all of the client/server/storage/network devices, mobile devices
    Manage the daily activities of configuration and operation of IT systems.
    Provide assistance to users in accessing and using IT systems
    Provide Tier I (Help Desk) and Tier 2 (Escalation) problem identification, diagnosis and resolution of problems
    Provide support to IT systems including day-to-day operations, monitoring and problem resolution for all of the client/server/storage/network devices, mobile devices, etc.
    Provide support for the escalation and communication of status to agency management and internal customers
    Optimize system operations and resource utilization, and perform system capacity analysis and planning
    Provide support for the dispatch system and hardware problems and remains involved in the resolution process
    Configure and manage UNIX and Windows (or other applicable) operating systems and installs/loads operating system software, troubleshoot, maintain integrity and configure network
    Analyze and resolve complex problems associated with server hardware applications and software integration                      
Required Skills:
    15 years' experience as a Systems Administrator in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity
    Bachelor's degree in technical discipline from an accredited college or university. Five (5) years of additional Systems Administrator experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree.
Security Clearance Requirement: Current/Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph.


Why Envision:

  • Average Employee Tenure: 7-10 Years - Stability and long-term growth.
  • $3,000 Annual Training Budget
  • 5 Weeks PTO
  • 100% Employer-Paid Medical Coverage
  • $1,200 Phone & Internet Stipend
  • 401(k) + ~10% (Vested Day One)
  • 5% Annual Performance Bonus
Envision Innovative Solutions is an equal-opportunity employer. All Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age, disability or any other basis prohibited by law.
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