1

Senior Windows System Administrator Jobs in Virginia

Windows Systems Administrator Location: Arlington, VA Schedule: 100% On-Site | Monday-Friday | 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM (2nd Shift) Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI Overview We are seeking a Windows ...

Description Windows Systems Administrator We are seeking a Windows Systems Administrator to join our team. This program is establishing a modern secure web service (SWS) operation as part of a ...

Windows Systems Administrator Location: Arlington, VA Schedule: 100% On-Site | Monday-Friday | 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM (2nd Shift) Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI Overview We are seeking a Windows ...

We are recruiting for a TS/SCI with Polygraph cleared Windows Systems Administrator for an exciting, growing mission! The qualified candidate will leverage their development skills and experience to ...

We are recruiting for a TS/SCI with Polygraph cleared Windows Systems Administrator for an exciting, growing mission! The qualified candidate will leverage their development skills and experience to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Senior Windows System Administrator information

See Virginia salary details

$58K

$105.7K

$136.8K

How much do senior windows system administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior windows system administrator in Virginia is $105,719.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,200.00 and $113,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior Windows system administrator?

Senior Windows System Administrators are experienced IT professionals responsible for managing, configuring, and maintaining Windows-based servers and systems within an organization. They ensure the reliability, security, and performance of these systems, often overseeing backups, updates, and troubleshooting technical issues. In addition, they may lead a team of administrators, develop automation scripts, and implement best practices for system management. Their expertise is crucial for maintaining a stable and secure IT infrastructure, supporting business operations, and planning for future technology needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior Windows system administrator?

To thrive as a Senior Windows System Administrator, you need deep expertise in Windows Server environments, network administration, and troubleshooting, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in IT or related certifications like Microsoft Certified: Windows Server or Azure Administrator. Proficiency with tools such as Active Directory, PowerShell scripting, virtualization platforms, and system monitoring software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills help you manage complex systems and coordinate with IT teams effectively. These skills ensure the reliability, security, and optimal performance of critical IT infrastructure in enterprise environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by senior Windows system administrators, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Windows System Administrators often encounter challenges such as managing complex Active Directory environments, ensuring system security, and minimizing downtime during maintenance or updates. Staying current with the latest Windows Server technologies and security best practices is crucial. Collaborating closely with network engineers, security teams, and help desk staff helps streamline issue resolution and maintain system integrity. Leveraging automation tools like PowerShell can also significantly improve efficiency and reduce human error.

What is the difference between Senior Windows System Administrator vs Windows Server Engineer?

AspectSenior Windows System AdministratorWindows Server Engineer
CertificationsMicrosoft Certified: Windows Server, MCSEMicrosoft Certified: Windows Server, MCSE
Work EnvironmentIT departments, enterprise networks, data centersData centers, enterprise IT teams, cloud environments
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging Windows servers, troubleshooting, maintenanceDesigning, deploying, optimizing Windows server infrastructure
Industry UsageCommon in large organizations, government, financeUsed in enterprise environments, cloud services, hosting providers

While both roles require similar certifications and work in enterprise environments, Senior Windows System Administrators focus on managing and troubleshooting existing Windows server infrastructure, whereas Windows Server Engineers are more involved in designing and deploying new server solutions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Windows System Administrator jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Windows System Administrator jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Windows System Administrator jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Windows System Administrator job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Windows System Administrator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,719 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Sr. Windows Systems Admininstrator

Chantilly, VA

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

SSA has an urgent need for a Senior Windows Systems Administrator to support a Federal Program in Chantilly, VA.  This is a direct-hire role with our client, a highly respected player in the Intelligence Community. 
**Due to the nature of the work, an active TS/SCI Clearance and CI Polygraph is required.** (this means a current, active clearance)

Sr Windows System Administrator
If you enjoy working with new technologies, enterprise-leading equipment, and have a passion for building and maintaining infrastructures, we would like to speak to you. This position will play a key role in supporting engineers responsible for leveraging next-generation infrastructure to drive innovation in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) field.
We are seeking an experienced and skilled Senior Windows System Administrator to join our IT team. As a key member of our infrastructure support team, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining our Windows-based systems, networks, and applications. This is a great opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented individual who is passionate about delivering exceptional technical support.
Key Job Responsibilities
· 8+ years of experience as a Windows System Administrator or similar role
· Must be able to architect and support Windows infrastructure
· In-depth knowledge of Windows Server / Desktop Operating Systems
· Strong understanding and hands-on experience with:
o Active Directory
o Group Policy
o DNS
o Patching and update management
o File Server administration
o Exchange Server / Enterprise Email Systems
· Experience with Windows deployment tools such as SCCM or MDT
· Familiarity with backup and disaster recovery procedures
· Excellent problem solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues
· Strong communication and interpersonal skills
· Design, implement, and maintain Windows-based systems, networks, and applications
· Provide technical support and assistance to users via phone, email, and in-person
· Monitor system performance, identify and resolve issues, and optimize system resources
· Develop and maintain documentation for system administration tasks and procedures
· Collaborate with other IT teams to ensure seamless integration of new technologies and systems
· Stay up-to-date with the latest Windows OS updates, security patches, and best practices
· Travel up to 20% of the time, as required, to perform on-site installations, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities at customer sites or data centers. 
Core Competencies – Leadership
Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues in distributed systems.
Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively with leads, security, and other stakeholders.
Collaboration: Ability to work effectively in a team environment, mentor junior engineers, and lead technical initiatives.
Mentorship: As a Senior role, the ability to guide and mentor junior engineers, share knowledge, and foster best practices.
Proactive & Ownership: Proactive approach to identifying and addressing potential issues, with a strong sense of ownership over the platform.
Beneficial Skills
· Experience installing, configuring, and supporting the Linux operating system (Server / Workstation)
· Knowledge of PowerShell / Python / Bash scripting and automation
· Certification in Microsoft MCSA or MCSE and other industry certifications
· Familiarity with security best practices (e.g. firewalls, antivirus software)
· Experience with virtualization technologies (VMware, Hyper-V, KVM)
· Proficiency in SQL Server administration
· Experience with IT service management frameworks (e.g. ServiceNow)