1

Principal Systems Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are hiring a Principal Systems Administrator (Linux) to work in Laurel, MD . Position location is subjectto change based on central MD client's needs. Required: TS/SCI with a Polygraph Description:

Showing results 21-40

Principal Systems Administrator information

See salary details

$41K

$88.9K

$137.5K

How much do principal systems administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 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.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal systems administrator?

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.

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 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.

Do principal systems administrators make good money?

Principal systems administrators typically earn high salaries due to their advanced technical skills, leadership responsibilities, and experience managing complex IT infrastructure. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and certifications such as CISSP or VMware, but they generally offer competitive compensation within the IT field.

Is a principal systems administrator a high paying job?

A principal systems administrator is typically a senior IT role with a high salary, reflecting advanced technical skills, leadership responsibilities, and experience in managing complex systems. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and certifications such as CISSP or VMware, but generally, it is considered a well-compensated position within the IT field.
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:

Infographic showing various Principal Systems Administrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,927 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Principal Systems Administrator

Raytheon Technologies

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Date Posted:
2026-08-06
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-CA-EL SEGUNDO-E04 ~ 2006 E El Segundo Blvd ~ BLDG E04
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
Security Clearance Type:
DoD Clearance: Secret
Security Clearance Status:
Active and existing security clearance required after day 1
At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.
Raytheon brings the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today's mission and stay ahead of tomorrow's threat. We deliver solutions that help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression, creating a safer, more secure world. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.
What You Will Do:
The candidate's day-to-day activities include but are not limited to: Windows server management; storage management; file server management; access management; data backup; software and license configuration; and workstation support. Each day in the life of a Systems Administrator can bring something new - building a new IT infrastructure for a group of engineers, restoring files due to an outage, updating virus definitions and security patches, teaming with our brilliant engineers on how to improve their processes, and more.
What You Will Learn
You will provide System Administration in a heterogeneous Microsoft Windows (Primary OS) environment.
Understanding and knowledge of Windows Server internals to include DNS, DHCP, AD, and Windows integration methods.
Working as a team member in a fast-paced technological environment. Use troubleshooting techniques to resolve technical problems of a moderate to high scope and complexity to include the integration of hardware and operating systems (OS).
Understanding of data RAID, data backup uses and technologies. Install and configure software applications requested by end users.
Work with Cybersecurity professionals to maintain security requirements.
Must be able to obtain Department of Defense Directive (DoDD) 8140 / 8570 Certification requirements within 6 months of start date.
This position has the potential to work off hours and weekends.
Qualifications You Must Have:
  • Typically requires a University degree or equivalent experience and a minimum of 5 years of prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 3 years experience.
  • The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance.
  • Experience with some of, but not limited to, the following technologies: Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Active Directory, WSUS, VMware, prior systems administration experience.

Qualifications We Prefer:
  • An active DoD Top Secret clearance.
  • Experience with infrastructure backup, restore, disaster recovery and business continuity products.
  • Scripting Experience.
  • Experience using tools like SCAP and following STIGs.
  • Experience with Linux architecture, deployment, administration, performance monitoring/tuning, security hardening, and troubleshooting.

What We Offer:
Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.
Learn More & Apply Now!
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 95,500 USD - 181,700 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
Privacy Policy and Terms:
Click on this link to read the Policy and Terms