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Tier 2 System Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Tier 2 System Administrator to join our growing IT team. In this role, you will serve as an escalation point for Tier 1 support and be responsible for ...

The Level 2 System Administrator shall possess the following capabilities: * Provide support for ... * Provide Tier 1 (Help Desk) and Tier 2 (Escalation) problem identification, diagnosis, and ...

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Tier 2 System Administrator information

See salary details

$41K

$88.9K

$137.5K

How much do tier 2 system administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for tier 2 system administrator 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 Tier 2 system administrator?

Tier 2 System Administrators are IT professionals responsible for handling more complex technical issues that cannot be resolved by Tier 1 support staff. They provide advanced troubleshooting, system maintenance, and support for hardware and software problems within an organization. Tier 2 admins often escalate particularly challenging issues to Tier 3 specialists, but they are expected to resolve most technical incidents efficiently. Their role is crucial for ensuring smooth IT operations and minimizing downtime for users.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tier 2 system administrator?

To thrive as a Tier 2 System Administrator, you need a solid background in IT fundamentals, troubleshooting, and systems administration, usually supported by a relevant degree or certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Microsoft Certified: Windows Server. Familiarity with technical tools such as Active Directory, virtualization platforms, ticketing systems, and scripting languages is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help Tier 2 administrators excel when working with users and resolving escalated issues. These skills ensure efficient resolution of technical problems, minimize system downtime, and support overall organizational productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by Tier 2 system administrators, and how can they be addressed?

Tier 2 System Administrators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex technical issues that Tier 1 cannot resolve, managing escalated user tickets under tight deadlines, and balancing multiple priorities. These challenges can be addressed by developing strong diagnostic skills, maintaining clear documentation, and collaborating closely with both Tier 1 and Tier 3 teams. Regular training and staying updated on new technologies also help Tier 2 admins handle a wide range of issues more effectively and continue advancing in their careers.

What is the difference between Tier 2 System Administrator vs Tier 1 Support Technician?

AspectTier 2 System AdministratorTier 1 Support Technician
CredentialsIT certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified)Basic technical certifications or none required
Work EnvironmentData centers, enterprise networks, IT departmentsHelp desks, call centers, user support
ResponsibilitiesAdvanced troubleshooting, system maintenance, network configurationInitial user support, basic issue resolution, ticket logging

The main difference is that Tier 2 System Administrators handle more complex technical issues, perform system configurations, and maintain infrastructure, while Tier 1 Support Technicians focus on basic user support and initial troubleshooting. Tier 2 roles require more technical skills and certifications, often working in enterprise environments, whereas Tier 1 roles are more customer-facing and entry-level.

More about Tier 2 System Administrator jobs
Infographic showing various Tier 2 System Administrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,927 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Tier 2 System Administrator

Booz Allen Hamilton

Arlington, VA • On-site

$62K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Booz Allen Hamilton rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

Tier 2 System Administrator

The Opportunity:

Your combination of people skills and system administration knowledge makes you the team hero, solving one problem after another. What if you could use those skills to improve the technology supporting the DoD? Your blend of technical skill, problemsolving ability, and mission focus enables you to keep critical systems running and secure. We're looking for a System Administrator with experience in Windows system administration, virtualization, and classified environments to support reliable and secure operations within the Defense and Intelligence communities. As a System Administrator on our team, you'll install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Windowsbased systems and virtual environments. We are looking for people with strong customer service skills and technical background to provide Tier 2 support for DoD missions.

As a Tier 2 System Administrator on our team, you'll ensure the current infrastructure is functional, available, and constantly looking for ways to make the infrastructure better using the latest technology and best implementation strategies. Working alongside senior administrators and network engineers, you'll contribute to system monitoring, update and patch critical systems, conduct performance checks, and issue resolution. You'll help clients overcome tough challenges through monitoring and performance management. Your knowledge will be vital as you identify problem areas and opportunities for improvement in a mission-critical network. Your communication skills will come in handy as you turn metrics into information and articulate their meaning.

This is an opportunity to gain experience in virtualization. We focus on growing as a team, so we'll share techniques, work through challenges, and develop new methodologies together. Work with us and resolve daily challenges as we improve and enhance the cyber maturity profile of DoD systems across the enterprise.

Join us. The world can't wait.

You Have:

  • 3+ years of experience as a system administrator, network technician, or cybersecurity technician

  • Experience with VMware Hyper V and managing virtual machines

  • Experience with service ticketing systems

  • Experience with tools such as Active Directory, SCCM, Dell WYSE Management System, Hyperflex, or SolarWinds

  • Knowledge of Windows operating systems

  • Knowledge of Unix or Linux

  • Ability to interpret and follow technical documentation and procedures

  • Active TS/SCI clearance; willingness to take a polygraph exam

  • HS diploma or GED

  • Security+ or DoD 8570 IAT Level II Certification

Nice If You Have:

  • Experience with tools such as LogRhythm or Jira

  • Experience working with STIGs, Group Policy Objects (GPOs), or configuration baselines

  • Knowledge of government system design or DoD cybersecurity processes

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Assurance, or Cybersecurity

  • CASP, CISSP, or CCNA Certification

  • Red Hat RHCSA Certification

Clearance:

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; TS/SCI clearance is required.

Compensation

At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.

Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $62,000.00 to $141,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.

Identity Statement

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.

Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.

  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.

  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.

  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.


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About Booz Allen Hamilton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914