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Tier 2 System Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provides Tier I (Help Desk) and Tier II (Escalation) problem identification, diagnosis and ... Requirements The Level 2 System Administrator shall possess the following capabilities: * Provide ...

Description System Administrator Level 2 Provides support for implementation, troubleshooting and ... Provides Tier I (Help Desk) and Tier II (Escalation) problem identification, diagnosis and ...

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Tier 2 System Administrator information

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$41K

$88.9K

$137.5K

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

As of Sep 3, 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.

System Administrator 2

SW Complete

Columbia, MD โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
System Administrator Level 2
Provides support for implementation, troubleshooting and maintenance of Information Technology (IT) systems. Manages IT system infrastructure and any processes related to these systems. Provides support to IT systems including day-to-day operations, monitoring and problem resolution for all of the client/server/storage/network devices, mobile devices, etc. Provides Tier I (Help Desk) and Tier II (Escalation) problem identification, diagnosis and resolution of problems. Provides support for the escalation and communication of status to agency management and internal customers. Provides support for the dispatch system and hardware problems and remains involved in the resolution process. Configures and manages UNIX and Windows operating systems and installs/loads operating system software, troubleshoots, maintains integrity and configures network components along with implementing operating systems enhancements to improve reliability and performance.
Requirements
The Level 2 System Administrator shall possess the following capabilities:
  • Provide support for implementation, troubleshooting and maintenance of IT systems
  • Provide Tier I (Help Desk) problem identification, diagnosis and resolution of problems
  • Manage the daily activities of configuration and operation of IT systems
  • Provide assistance to users in accessing and using IT systems
  • Provide Tier I (Help Desk) and Tier II (Escalation) problem identification, diagnosis and resolution of problems
  • Provide support to IT systems including day-to-day operations, monitoring and problem resolution for all of the client/server/storage/network devices, mobile devices, etc.
  • Provide support for the escalation and communication of status to agency management and internal customers
  • Optimize system operations and resource utilization, and perform system capacity analysis and planning
  • Provide in-depth experience in trouble-shooting IT systems
  • Provide detailed analysis and feedback to agency management and internal customers for escalated tickets
  • Provide support for the dispatch system and hardware problems and remains involved in the resolution process
  • Configure and manage UNIX and Windows (or other applicable) operating systems and installs/loads operating system software, troubleshoot, maintain integrity of and configure network components, along with implementing operating systems enhancements to improve reliability and performance

Qualifications:
  • Ten (10) years' experience as a SA in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required

Additional contract or position specific required experience for this level (skills, technologies, expertise):
  • One (1) year experience in Linux, Unix, Windows or Cisco OS operating system
  • Five (5) years' experience administering Linux, Unix or Windows Operating System
  • Five (5) years' experience supporting applications in the SIGINT environment
  • Three (3) years' experience installing software packages such as .iso and RedHat package Managers (rpm)
  • CWIP: IAT Level I Certification

CLEARANCE REQUIRED
  • TS/SCI w/ Polygraph

Desired Qualifications:
  • Three (3) years' experience configuring, troubleshooting, monitoring, and administering a messaging service (such as Java Messaging Service, TIBCO, ActiveMQ, Artemis, Kafka)

About Us
Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, Synergy ECP is a leading provider of cybersecurity, software and systems engineering and IT services to the U.S. intelligence and defense communities. The company leverages its expertise in data transport solutions, software and systems engineering, and other solutions to deliver critical and innovative capabilities to high-level decision makers that enhance our nation's security.
In an ultra-competitive environment, Synergy ECP has thrived by adhering to our name, making sure excellence is displayed by our Employees, to our Customers and by Improving Performance (ECP). It's what sets us apart, enabling us to be an autonomous yet agile business that delivers huge results-showing we're ready to meet our customers' evolving demands. Synergy ECP has earned a client list that includes numerous Fortune 100 companies, in addition to multiple branches of the US government and military services.
Synergy ECP is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.