1

Senior Systems Administrator Jobs in Ridgecrest, CA

Salary Range: $70,310 - $90,000 We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) Senior Systems Administrator to join our growing IT team. In this role, you will be ...

Salary Range: $70,310 - $90,000 We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) Senior Systems Administrator to join our growing IT team. In this role, you will be ...

JT4 China Lake is seeking an experienced Systems Administrator to perform operations in systems security, access, configuration of the systems, and to ensure hardware/software compatibility. **An ...

JT4 China Lake is seeking an experienced Systems Administrator to perform operations in systems security, access, configuration of the systems, and to ensure hardware/software compatibility. **An ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Senior Systems Administrator information

See Ridgecrest, CA salary details

$48.7K

$101.5K

$142.5K

How much do senior systems administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior systems administrator in Ridgecrest, CA is $101,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,400.00 and $115,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a senior systems administrator make in the US?

A senior systems administrator in the US typically earns between $80,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often hold certifications like CompTIA Server+ or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) and work with environments involving Windows, Linux, or cloud platforms.

What are some common challenges faced by senior systems administrators, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Systems Administrators often encounter challenges such as managing complex, multi-platform environments, ensuring uptime during upgrades or maintenance, and responding to unexpected technical incidents. Balancing proactive system improvements with urgent troubleshooting is a frequent demand. To address these challenges, it's important to prioritize clear documentation, automate routine tasks where possible, and foster strong communication with IT and non-IT teams. Staying current with industry best practices and security protocols also helps prevent many common issues before they arise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior systems administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Systems Administrator, you need deep expertise in server management, network administration, and operating systems, typically backed by a bachelor’s degree in IT or a related field. Familiarity with tools like VMware, Active Directory, Linux/Windows Server, and certifications such as CompTIA Server+, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with IT teams. These competencies are crucial for maintaining system reliability, minimizing downtime, and supporting organizational technology needs.

What is the difference between Senior Systems Administrator vs Systems Engineer?

AspectSenior Systems AdministratorSystems Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires certifications like CompTIA Server+, Microsoft Certified: Windows Server, or Cisco CCNAOften requires similar certifications, with additional focus on network design and engineering
Work EnvironmentPrimarily manages and maintains existing IT infrastructure within organizationsDesigns, develops, and implements new systems and network solutions
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in IT departments across various industries, focusing on operational stabilityFound in organizations needing system design and integration, often in tech and engineering sectors

While both roles require strong technical skills and certifications, Senior Systems Administrators focus on maintaining and supporting existing systems, whereas Systems Engineers are more involved in designing and implementing new systems and solutions.

What is a senior systems administrator?

Senior Systems Administrators are IT professionals responsible for managing and maintaining an organization's computer systems, servers, and networks. They oversee system performance, ensure security, troubleshoot complex issues, and often mentor junior administrators. Their work is critical for minimizing downtime, implementing upgrades, and ensuring the reliability and security of IT infrastructure. Senior Systems Administrators typically have years of experience and deep technical knowledge in areas like operating systems, networking, and cloud platforms.

What does a senior systems administrator do?

A senior systems administrator is an IT professional who manages the network and computer system infrastructure for a company or organization. Your responsibilities may vary depending on your employer; at a large company, you may be in a management position in which you oversee a team or department to design and implement network and database solutions for an organization, perform software programming to expand technological capabilities, or troubleshoot network issues and devise solutions. In a smaller company, you may more directly engage with these duties, supported by a small technical staff.

Do senior systems administrators make good money?

Senior systems administrators typically earn a competitive salary that reflects their experience, technical skills, and certifications such as CompTIA or Cisco. Their compensation often includes benefits and opportunities for advancement, with salaries varying by industry and location. They are also responsible for managing complex IT infrastructure and ensuring system security and reliability.

What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Administrator jobs in Ridgecrest, CA?

The most popular types of Systems Administrator jobs in Ridgecrest, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Systems Administrator jobs in Ridgecrest, CA?

For Senior Systems Administrator jobs in Ridgecrest, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Ridgecrest, CA are hiring for Senior Systems Administrator jobs?

Cities near Ridgecrest, CA with the most Senior Systems Administrator job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Systems Administrator job openings in Ridgecrest, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,525 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Senior Systems Administrator - China Lake CA

JT4 LLC

Ridgecrest, CA • On-site

$96K - $111K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

JT4 China Lake is seeking a highly experienced Senior Systems Administrator. This role is responsible for maintaining systems configuration and having hardware/software being compatible to maintain a high level cybersecurity posture. The position will also perform network systems administration. JT4, LLC provides engineering and technical support to multiple western test ranges for the U.S. Air Force, Space Force, and Navy under the Joint Range Technical Services Contract, better known as J-Tech II. JT4 develops and maintains realistic, integrated test and training environments and prepares our nation's war-fighting aircraft, weapons systems, and aircrews for today's missions and tomorrow's global challenges. **An ideal candidate will have an active Secret clearance** **This position is located at China Lake and is not eligible for telework** Job Summary -- Essential Functions/Duties Evaluates system specifications, configures system, establishes standards, insures hardware / software compatibility and maintains workstations and Microsoft (MS) Windows Operating Systems for stable performance. Employee will be responsible to perform the following functions/duties: Performs the daily operation of MS Win server software to include system security, appropriate access, configuration and backing up the system Specifies network requirements, monitors locate area network (LAN) performance, troubleshoots networking hardware and insures system is working properly according to specifications and parameters Organizes and secures directory structure and assists / trains staff members in the use of department. Document Management (DM) System, associated databases and Configuration Management (CM)/ DM release procedures Maintains and designs functional, visually esthetic web pages Specifies hardware requirements and provides a Computer Authorization and Custodial Receipt Listing (CA/CRL) to track equipment configurations and identification logs Serves as point of contact (POC) for problem reporting, incremental version updates and monitors yearly support contract Makes recommendations for future hardware / software implementations and related process improvements, schedules, plans and performs system upgrades including the transition from design, test, production and documentation environments Provides operational status as required Uses established policies and procedures and subject matter knowledge to complete complex assignments requiring originality and ingenuity performed under minimum supervision with considerable latitude for independent contribution. Requirements -- Education, Technical, and Work Experience A bachelor's degree in associated discipline from an accredited academic institution or equivalent experience through technical training, completion of a recognized certification program, or experience. Requires at least nine years of experience in computer system related areas of expertise and must possess and apply a broad knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures in computer science, graphics, and information systems. In addition, a Systems Administrator IV must possess the following qualifications: Must have specific experience in the maintenance of Operating Systems and support applications, in a centralized and distributed server environment Must possess planning/organizing skills and must be able to work under deadlines Must be able to obtain and maintain a government security clearance Must possess a valid, state-issued driver's license. Other Responsibilities Will be asked to make functional the initiatives established by management and will coordinate with other organizations as affected by upgrades, capabilities, policy and procedures. Each employee must read, understand, and implement the general and specific operational, safety, quality, and environmental requirements of all plans, procedures, and policies pertaining to their job. Salary The expected salary range for this position is $96,491.20 to $111,491.20 annually. The salary range offered for this position is a good faith description of the expected salary range this role will pay. JT4 LLC considers factors such as (but not limited to) responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and business considerations when extending an offer. Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance Benefits Active on Day 1 Life Insurance Health Savings Accounts/FSA's Disability Insurance Paid Time Off 401(k) Plan Options with Employer Match JT4 will match 50% up to an 8% contribution 100% Immediate Vesting Tuition Reimbursement Working Conditions This position involves work typical of an office environment with no unusual hazards. There is occasional lifting (up to 20 pounds), constant sitting and use of a computer terminal, constant use of sight abilities while writing, reviewing, and editing documents, constant use of speech/hearing abilities for communication, and constant mental alertness. Disclaimer The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by personnel assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of persons so classified. Tasking is in support of a federal government contract that requires U.S. citizenship. Some jobs may require a candidate to be eligible for a government security clearance, state-issued driver's license or other licenses/certification and the inability to obtain and maintain the required clearance, license or certification may affect an employee's ability to maintain employment. SCC: CSAN6; A4CLR

JT4 logo

About JT4

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

JT4 provides engineering and technical support to multiple western test ranges for the U.S. Air Force and Navy under the Joint Range Technical Services Contract, better known as J-Tech II. We develop and maintain realistic integrated test and training environments, and prepare our nation's war-fighting aircraft, weapons systems, and aircrews for today's missions and tomorrow's global challenges.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Las Vegas, NV, US

Year founded

2001

Social media