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Senior Windows Systems Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Sr. Windows Systems Administrator

Columbia, MD · On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

Overview Senior Windows Systems Administrator LOCATION: Columbia, MD (Onsite) JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Active Top Secret / TS/SCI (Required) TRAVEL: Less than 10% SALARY RANGE: $145k - $165k ...

Astrion

Sr. Windows Systems Administrator

Columbia, MD · On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

Overview Senior Windows Systems Administrator LOCATION: Columbia, MD (Onsite) JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Active Top Secret / TS/SCI (Required) TRAVEL: Less than 10% SALARY RANGE: $145k - $165k ...

CALNET, Inc.

$100 - $125/hr

... Senior Windows System Administrator with Secret Clearance to workin Washington DC Job Requirements Windows Systems Administrator manages, secures, and optimizes an organization's Microsoft ...

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Senior Windows Systems Administrator information

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$58.5K

$106.6K

$138K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior windows systems administrator in the United States is $106,633.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior Windows systems administrator?

Senior Windows Systems Administrators are experienced IT professionals responsible for managing, maintaining, and optimizing Windows-based server environments within an organization. They handle tasks such as system installation, configuration, troubleshooting, security management, and performance tuning. Senior administrators often lead projects, mentor junior staff, and ensure the reliability and security of Windows infrastructure. Their role is critical in supporting business operations by maintaining uptime and addressing technical issues efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Senior Windows Systems Administrator, you need deep expertise in Windows Server administration, Active Directory, networking, and troubleshooting, often backed by a bachelor’s degree in IT or related field and several years of relevant experience. Familiarity with tools like PowerShell, System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), virtualization platforms, and certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure reliable system performance, effective issue resolution, and seamless collaboration within IT teams and across the organization.

What are some common challenges senior Windows systems administrators face when managing enterprise-scale environments?

Senior Windows Systems Administrators often encounter challenges such as ensuring system uptime during maintenance, managing complex Active Directory structures, and staying ahead of emerging security threats. Balancing the need for robust security with user accessibility, as well as coordinating updates or patches across multiple servers without disrupting business operations, are also common hurdles. Collaborating effectively with network engineers, security teams, and application owners is essential to address these challenges and ensure seamless IT operations.

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

AspectSenior Windows Systems AdministratorWindows Server Engineer
CertificationsMicrosoft Certified: Windows Server, MCSEMicrosoft Certified: Windows Server, MCSE
Work EnvironmentIT departments, enterprise networksData centers, enterprise IT teams
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging Windows infrastructure, troubleshooting, user supportDesigning, deploying, and optimizing Windows Server environments
Industry UsageCorporate, government, healthcareLarge organizations, cloud services

While both roles require expertise in Windows Server and similar certifications, the Senior Windows Systems Administrator focuses on maintaining and supporting existing infrastructure, whereas the Windows Server Engineer is more involved in designing and implementing new server solutions. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus within enterprise IT environments.

What cities are hiring for Senior Windows Systems Administrator jobs?

Cities with the most Senior Windows Systems Administrator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Windows Systems Administrator jobs?

The most popular types of Windows Systems Administrator jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Senior Windows Systems Administrator jobs?

The top employers for Senior Windows Systems Administrator jobs are:

What states have the most Senior Windows Systems Administrator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Senior Windows Systems Administrator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Senior Windows 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 $106,633 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Sr. Windows Systems Admininstrator

Select Search Associates LLC

Chantilly, VA

Full-time

Posted 26 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)