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Principal Systems Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$76 - $141/hr

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 ...

Provide IT systems administration support in a heterogeneous Microsoft Windows environment. * Manage and maintain core services including DNS, DHCP, Active Directory (AD), and server replication.

Provide IT systems administration support in a heterogeneous Microsoft Windows environment. * Manage and maintain core services including DNS, DHCP, Active Directory (AD), and server replication.

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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 Sep 6, 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 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,927 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Systems Administrator/Principal Systems Administrator (AHT)

Northrop Grumman

Wright-patterson Air Force Base, OH • On-site

$94K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 370 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.

Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. 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 Intelligence Center (NASIC) at Wright Patterson Air Force Base.

NASIC is responsible for creating all-source intelligence defining the present and future air, air defense, cyber, space and ballistic missile threats to enable military operations, force modernization, and policy making. Successful candidates will clearly demonstrate strong technical skills to achieve high availability, security, and integrity for the operating environment. They should have a track record as an effective communicator and problem solver who is able to develop and maintain good working relationships with internal and external stakeholders This Windows Systems Administrator will be an active part of a team of Systems, Network, and Storage Administrators who collaborate to support two production networks and a R&D environment to include Linux and Windows.

This requisition may be filled at a level 2 or level 3 based on the qualifications below. Basic Qualifications: Systems Administrator (level 2): Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 2 years of relevant experience or a master's degree with 0 year of relevant experience. An additional 4 years' experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Systems Administrator (level 3): Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 5 years of relevant experience or a master's degree with 3 years of relevant experience. An additional 4 years' experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. Ability to obtain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Active IAT Level II certification (such as Security X (formerly CASP+), Security+, or CISSP), or the ability to obtain one within a defined timeframe. Minimum of three years of IT experience. Preferred Qualifications: Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager/Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager experience.

Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS) Experience with scripting using tools such as PowerShell, Perl, Bash, etc. Experience with hardware installation and maintenance to include firmware upgrades. Experience in enterprise backup and restore solutions, storage area network (SAN), and network attached storage (NAS).

HTC Condor Elasticsearch/Kibana Primary Level Salary Range: $75,800.00 - $113,800.00 Secondary Level Salary Range: $94,200.00 - $141,200.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results

Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date.

However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO

U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.


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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939