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System Administration Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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System Administrator

Bryans Road, MD · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Windows Server and Linux administration. * Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Group Policy. * Networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, VPNs, firewalls). * Virtualization (VMware vSphere and/or Hyper-V)

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System Administration information

See Reston, VA salary details

$42.7K

$92.5K

$143.1K

How much do system administration jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for system administration in Reston, VA is $92,516.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,800.00 and $108,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a System Administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a System Administrator, you need a solid understanding of operating systems, networking, and server management, typically supported by a degree in IT or related certifications like CompTIA Server+ or Microsoft Certified: Windows Server. Familiarity with tools such as Active Directory, virtualization platforms, and monitoring software is crucial. Problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the reliability, security, and efficiency of IT infrastructure, which is vital for organizational productivity and data protection.

Do sys admins make good money?

System administrators typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced sys admins with skills in scripting, networking, and security can command higher pay, especially in enterprise environments.

What is system administration?

System administration is the process of managing, maintaining, and supporting computer systems and servers within an organization. System administrators (sysadmins) are responsible for tasks such as installing and updating software, managing user accounts, ensuring security, monitoring system performance, and troubleshooting issues. Their work ensures that IT infrastructure runs efficiently, securely, and with minimal downtime. Sysadmins often handle both hardware and software components, supporting business operations and user needs.

Is system admin a high paying job?

System administration is generally considered a well-paying IT role, with salaries varying based on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions typically start lower, but experienced system administrators with skills in networking, scripting, and security can earn competitive salaries, especially in high-demand markets.

What are some common challenges faced by system administrators, and how can they be addressed in a professional setting?

System administrators often face challenges such as managing multiple systems across different environments, troubleshooting unexpected outages, and ensuring security compliance. To address these, many organizations encourage proactive system monitoring, thorough documentation, and regular training on new technologies. Collaborating closely with IT teams and end-users also helps identify issues early and implement best practices, creating a more resilient and efficient IT infrastructure.

What is the difference between System Administration vs Network Administration?

AspectSystem AdministrationNetwork Administration
CertificationsCompTIA Server+, Microsoft Certified: Windows Server FundamentalsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentManaging servers, operating systems, and hardwareConfiguring and maintaining network infrastructure
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments across various industries, focusing on servers and systemsOrganizations with complex networks, telecom, and internet providers

While both roles involve maintaining IT infrastructure, System Administrators focus on servers and operating systems, whereas Network Administrators specialize in network hardware and connectivity. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within IT.

What is the job of a systems administrator?

A systems administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization’s computer systems, servers, and networks to ensure they run efficiently and securely. They install, configure, monitor, and troubleshoot hardware and software, often using tools like command-line interfaces and management consoles. Certifications such as CompTIA Server+ or Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) can enhance their qualifications.

Will AI replace sysadmin jobs?

AI can automate certain tasks in system administration, such as monitoring, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance, but it is unlikely to fully replace sysadmins. Human oversight remains essential for complex problem-solving, security, and system design, making sysadmin roles evolving rather than disappearing. Skills in scripting, automation tools, and cybersecurity are increasingly valuable for sysadmins working alongside AI technologies.
What are the most commonly searched types of System Administration jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of System Administration jobs in Reston, VA are:
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What job categories do people searching System Administration jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for System Administration jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for System Administration jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most System Administration job openings:
System Administration jobs near you
Specialist, System Administration

Specialist, System Administration

L3Harris Technologies

Chantilly, VA

$92K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Specialist, System Administration
Job Code: 40564
JobLocation:Chantilly, VA
Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

L3Harris is looking for a driven Systems Administrator to join the Engineering team in Chantilly, VA. This role is ideal for someone who is hands-on and ready to take initiative in a fast-moving technical environment. The right candidate will have experience with Linux systems administration and be comfortable configuring, monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting systems in both physical and virtual environments. We're looking for someone who takes ownership, likes solving real problems, and is excited to keep learning and expanding their technical skills. This role offers the opportunity to learn from an experienced team who will provide hands-on guidance, mentorship, and support as you grow your technical skills and take on new challenges. The responsibilities below highlight the essential functions of the position; the selected candidate is expected to have experience in one or more with the ability to learn the others and grow as needed.

Essential Functions:

  • Configure, monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot Linux systems in both physical and virtual environments.
  • Deploy and manage infrastructure through automation using scripting languages such as Bash, Python, and Perl, as well as tools such as Kickstart, Podman, Ansible, and Puppet.
  • Support RMF and cybersecurity activities in partnership with Cyber Engineering, including BOE development, implementation and maintenance of security controls, and system hardening in compliance with DoD, NIST, STIG, and Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) requirements.
  • Support Software and System Engineers, CI/CD, Agile development, and DevSecOps processes within the system environment.
  • Use software development lifecycle and DevSecOps tools such as Jenkins, Jira, and Bitbucket to support build, integration, tracking, and configuration management activities.
  • Deploy, manage, and troubleshoot containers and containerized services using technologies such as Docker and Podman.
  • Customize, optimize, and troubleshoot enterprise-level applications.
  • Work in cloud-based environments and use monitoring, logging, and observability tools such as CloudWatch, Datadog, Grafana, Elastic, or similar platforms to support security requirements, system health, and performance.
  • This is a full-time onsite role that requires direct access to the team, systems, and mission environment on a daily basis.
  • Apply basic network administration and troubleshooting skills using core networking concepts and protocols such as DNS, DHCP, TCP/IP, routing, switching, and HTTP.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and minimum 4 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 8 years of prior related experience
  • Active TS/SCI w/CI Poly clearance.
  • DoD 8570.01-M IAT Level 2 certification (e.g. Security +) or within 180 days of time of hired.

PreferredAdditionalSkills:

  • Current Certifications such as:
    • RedHat Certification (RHCSA or RHCE)
    • CompTIA Linux+
  • Previous experience supporting DoD & IC Government customers.
  • Experience with Virtualization (KVM), Backup Technologies such as NAS, SAN, iSCSI, SAS.
  • Experience integrating and administering cross-domain systems.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Virginia is $92,500 - $171,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

#LI-FS1

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time

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