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Systems Administrator Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$115 - $155/hr

Join our team and discover why we are atop veteran employer and Certified Great Place to Workโ„ข ASRC Federal Agile Decision Sciences LLC is seeking an experienced Systems Administrator - Lead (LINUX ...

$116 - $254/hr

Systems Administrator Lead Job Category: Information Technology Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret Employee Type: Regular Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10% Type ...

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Systems Administrator Lead information

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$41K

$88.9K

$137.5K

How much do systems administrator lead jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems administrator lead 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 systems administrator lead?

A Systems Administrator Lead is an IT professional responsible for overseeing a team of system administrators and managing the overall operation, maintenance, and security of an organization's computer systems and networks. They ensure that systems run efficiently, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and implement upgrades or new technologies as needed. Additionally, they often develop policies, mentor junior staff, and coordinate with other departments to support business objectives. Their role is critical in maintaining uptime and ensuring data integrity across the organization's IT infrastructure.

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

To thrive as a Systems Administrator Lead, you need advanced knowledge of system architectures, server management, networking, and a relevant degree or certifications such as CompTIA Server+, Microsoft Certified: Windows Server, or Red Hat Certified System Administrator. Expertise in tools like Active Directory, VMware, Linux/Unix systems, and monitoring platforms is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and coordinate with other IT departments. These skills ensure the stability, security, and optimal performance of critical IT infrastructure while effectively guiding and mentoring junior administrators.

What are some typical challenges a systems administrator lead faces when managing a diverse IT team?

As a Systems Administrator Lead, you may encounter challenges such as aligning team members with varying skill sets, ensuring consistent adherence to security protocols, and coordinating responses to critical system incidents. Balancing project deadlines with ongoing maintenance tasks and facilitating effective communication between stakeholders and technical staff are also common hurdles. Proactively fostering collaboration and continuous learning within your team can help address these challenges and contribute to overall IT performance.

What is the difference between Systems Administrator Lead vs Systems Administrator?

AspectSystems Administrator LeadSystems Administrator
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified: Windows Server, Cisco CCNACompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified: Windows Server
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, project coordination, overseeing IT infrastructureMaintaining and supporting IT systems, troubleshooting, daily operations
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments across various industries, often in larger organizationsIT support teams, small to medium businesses, enterprise environments

The Systems Administrator Lead typically has additional responsibilities in team management and project oversight compared to the Systems Administrator. While both roles require similar technical certifications and work in similar environments, the Lead focuses more on leadership and strategic planning, whereas the Systems Administrator concentrates on daily system maintenance and support.

Do systems administrator leads make good money?

Systems administrator leads typically earn higher salaries than standard administrators due to their leadership responsibilities and technical expertise. According to industry data, their median annual pay ranges from $80,000 to over $120,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as CompTIA or Cisco. They often work in enterprise environments and require strong skills in network management, security, and team coordination.
More about Systems Administrator Lead jobs
Infographic showing various Systems Administrator Lead 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 Lead with Security Clearance

CACI

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Systems Administrator Lead Job Category: Information Technology Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret Employee Type: Regular Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10% Type of Travel: Local * * * The Opportunity: Lead systems administration efforts for complex Department of Defense IT infrastructure supporting intelligence and mission systems. As a Systems Administrator Lead, you will: * Administer and support daily operational requirements of computer network systems including workstations, file servers, web servers, and cloud-based infrastructure
* Lead the installation, configuration, and maintenance of hardware, software, and systems upgrades across multiple security domains
* Manage network accounts, network security, and web services for mission-critical systems
* Implement and maintain network security tools including firewalls, anti-virus, and intrusion detection services
* Monitor system configuration and performance to ensure optimal operation and availability
* Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior systems administrators
* Interface with government customers, cybersecurity teams, and cross-functional technical staff Responsibilities: * Lead the design, implementation, and management of enterprise-level IT infrastructure solutions
* Administer Windows and Linux server environments across multiple security enclaves
* Manage Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, and enterprise identity management systems
* Implement and enforce Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and secure configuration baselines
* Maintain system security compliance with NIST 800-53, Risk Management Framework (RMF), and DoD security requirements
* Perform system troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and incident response activities
* Develop and maintain system documentation including standard operating procedures, network diagrams, and configuration management databases
* Plan and execute system patching, vulnerability remediation, and system hardening activities
* Manage backup and recovery operations to ensure data integrity and business continuity
* Coordinate with cybersecurity personnel to implement security controls and respond to security events
* Lead infrastructure projects including system migrations, upgrades, and technology refresh initiatives
* Train staff on software applications, systems access, and security best practices
* Automate routine administrative tasks using PowerShell, Bash, Python, or other scripting languages
* Support virtualization platforms such as VMware, Hyper-V, or cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure)
* Maintain system monitoring and alerting tools to proactively identify and resolve issues Qualifications: Required: * Active Secret security clearance (required)
* Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or Information Systems
* 10+ years of professional experience in systems administration
* Strong experience administering Windows Server and/or Linux server environments
* Demonstrated experience with Active Directory, Group Policy, and enterprise identity management
* Experience with network security tools including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and anti-virus solutions
* Knowledge of virtualization technologies (VMware, Hyper-V) and/or cloud platforms (AWS, Azure)
* Understanding of networking concepts including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, routing, and switching
* Experience implementing STIGs and security compliance requirements for DoD systems
* Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with ability to resolve complex technical issues
* Excellent communication skills with ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
* Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and mentor junior staff
* Compliance with Cyber WorkForce (CWF) directives, including any required certifications Desired: * Industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Network+, Server+, Linux+, MCSA, MCSE, or RHCE
* Experience with DoD Risk Management Framework (RMF) and Authorization to Operate (ATO) processes
* Knowledge of DISA Enterprise Mission Assurance Support Service (eMASS) and Assured Compliance Assessment Solution (ACAS/Nessus)
* Experience with containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
* Familiarity with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools such as Ansible, Terraform, or Puppet
* Experience with scripting and automation using PowerShell, Python, Bash, or similar languages
* Understanding of DevSecOps principles and CI/CD pipelines
* Experience supporting intelligence community systems or special access programs
* Knowledge of Cross Domain Solutions (CDS) and multi-level security architectures
* Experience with enterprise backup solutions (Veeam, Commvault, etc.)
* Familiarity with SIEM tools and log aggregation platforms (Splunk, ELK)
* Previous experience supporting government program offices or defense contractors
* Experience with configuration management tools (SCCM, Satellite, etc.) - What You Can Expect: A culture of integrity. At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation. An environment of trust. CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality. A focus on continuous growth. Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy. Pay Range : There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits. The proposed salary range for this position is: $115,600 - 254,200 USD CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.