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Tier 2 Systems Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tier 2 Systems Administrator

Boulder, CO · On-site

$112K - $196K/yr

Parsons is looking for a talented Tier 2 Systems Administrator to join our growing team! The program vision is to serve as a research and development incubator for new and innovative remote sensing ...

The Tier 2 Systems Administrator will deliver, support, and improve IT services across a multi-site chemical and industrial manufacturing environment, ensuring system stability and a strong user ...

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Tier 2 Systems Administrator information

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$41K

$88.9K

$137.5K

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

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for tier 2 systems 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 the difference between Tier 2 Systems Administrator vs Tier 2 Network Technician?

AspectTier 2 Systems AdministratorTier 2 Network Technician
CertificationsCompTIA Server+, Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentServer management, OS troubleshooting, system upgradesNetwork troubleshooting, hardware setup, cabling
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, data centers, enterprise environmentsTelecom, internet service providers, corporate networks

The main difference is that Tier 2 Systems Administrators focus on managing and troubleshooting servers and operating systems, while Tier 2 Network Technicians specialize in network hardware and connectivity issues. Both roles require technical certifications and work in IT environments, but their daily tasks and expertise areas differ.

What are Tier 2 Systems Administrators?

Tier 2 Systems Administrators are IT professionals who handle more complex technical issues that cannot be resolved by Tier 1 support staff. They are responsible for troubleshooting and resolving problems related to network systems, servers, and software, often requiring deeper technical expertise. Their duties typically include monitoring system performance, managing user permissions, and performing system updates and backups. They act as an escalation point for issues that require advanced technical knowledge, ensuring smooth operation of an organization’s IT infrastructure.

What tier is a system administrator?

A system administrator is typically considered a Tier 1 or Tier 2 support role, depending on the organization's structure. Tier 2 systems administrators handle more complex issues, perform advanced troubleshooting, and may manage server configurations, requiring technical skills and certifications like CompTIA Server+ or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE).

Will AI replace sysadmin jobs?

AI is unlikely to fully replace Tier 2 Systems Administrators, as their role involves complex problem-solving, system configuration, and troubleshooting that require human judgment. Instead, AI tools are expected to augment their work by automating routine tasks, allowing sysadmins to focus on more strategic responsibilities. Maintaining skills in scripting, automation, and cybersecurity will remain important for job security in this field.

Is a sysadmin job in high demand?

Systems administrator roles, including Tier 2 Systems Administrators, are in high demand due to ongoing reliance on IT infrastructure across industries. Employers seek professionals with skills in network management, security, and troubleshooting, and certifications like CompTIA Server+ or Cisco CCNA can enhance job prospects.

How much does a Tier 3 system administrator make?

A Tier 3 systems administrator typically earns between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They handle advanced troubleshooting, system design, and often require specialized skills or certifications like Cisco or Microsoft certifications.

How does a Tier 2 Systems Administrator typically interact with Tier 1 and Tier 3 support teams?

As a Tier 2 Systems Administrator, you will often act as a bridge between Tier 1 support, which handles basic issues, and Tier 3 experts, who resolve complex or specialized problems. You'll receive escalated tickets from Tier 1, provide more in-depth troubleshooting, and only escalate to Tier 3 when issues require advanced expertise. Strong communication and documentation are crucial, as you'll need to clearly relay technical information both up and down the support chain to ensure efficient problem resolution and knowledge sharing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tier 2 Systems Administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tier 2 Systems Administrator, you need a solid background in computer networking, operating systems (Windows and Linux), and troubleshooting, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA). Proficiency with ticketing systems, remote management tools, and monitoring software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and customer service skills are crucial for resolving escalated technical issues and interacting with users. These abilities ensure efficient problem resolution, minimize downtime, and support business continuity in complex IT environments.
More about Tier 2 Systems Administrator jobs
Infographic showing various Tier 2 Systems Administrator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,927 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
Tier 2 Systems Administrator

Tier 2 Systems Administrator

Parsons

Boulder, CO • On-site

$112K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Parsons rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

159th of 357 rated engineering


Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.

Job Description:

Parsons is looking for a talented Tier 2 Systems Administrator to join our growing team!

The program vision is to serve as a research and development incubator for new and innovative remote sensing algorithms, user interfaces, and data analytics to serve the objective to exploit OPIR data from the legacy systems to produce actionable information in support of the battlespace awareness/technical intelligence (BA/TI) mission as well as other emerging mission areas (e.g. civil and environmental). Link to Program Details: https://boulderlab.org/.

This role is onsite in Boulder Monday-Friday, regular business hours.

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Working with a team of engineers within an Agile environment to provide Tier 2 system administration expertise in support of operations and tasking that are outside of Tier 1 expertise.
  • Support system automation, monitoring, and virtualization efforts through scripting or execution of automation systems.
  • Tier 2 system administration of VMWare & Linux environment, implementation of designs, supporting Tier 1 staff escalations, adhering to system configuration control mechanisms, documentation, implementation, and Tier 2 maintenance of the system to include automation and monitoring tools.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

  • Active DoD Top Secret/SCI security clearance, or Top Secret with SCI eligibility
  • Active Security+ Certification, or willing to obtain within three (3) months
  • 6+ years of relevant experience, with additional education able to count in lieu of experience
  • Bachelor's degree in a related technical discipline or higher, with additional years able to count in lieu of a degree
  • Real world experience and proficiency with automation tools; Ansible highly preferred
  • Experience with management of virtualization, cloud, and container technology (VMware workstation/vSphere/vCenter/ESXi/Nutanix Acropolis, AWS EC2/S3/Glacier, Docker/Kubernetes/OpenShift)
  • Real world experience and proficiency with SEIM solutions (Elastic Stack, SolarWinds, Sensu, Nagios, Splunk) and industry standard Security applications (HBSS, ACAS)
  • Experience with storage configuration, management, and administration of file, block, and object storage.
  • Proficiency with Windows and RHEL systems administration (Windows 11/Server 2016/Server 2019, RHEL 8/9) and patching
  • Experience with Red Hat Satellite Server and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS)
  • Experience with shell scripting languages (e.g., BASH)
  • Strong Troubleshooting skills, strong Interpersonal skills, and the ability to perform as a self-starter and closer when provided with project requirements and deadlines under minimal supervision

What Desired Skills You Might Bring:

  • Experience with Python, JSON, and YAML
  • Familiarity with network concepts relating to routers, switches, and firewalls
  • Experience working in an Agile environment
  • Experience with Jira and Confluence
  • Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
  • Certification within the VMware discipline
  • Certification within the AWS discipline

Security Clearance Requirement:

An active Top Secret SCI security clearance is required for this position.This position is part of our Federal Solutions team.The Federal Solutions segment delivers resources to our US government customers that ensure the success of missions around the globe. Our intelligent employees drive the state of the art as they provide services and solutions in the areas of defense, security, intelligence, infrastructure, and environmental. We promote a culture of excellence and close-knit teams that take pride in delivering, protecting, and sustaining our nation's most critical assets, from Earth to cyberspace. Throughout the company, our people are anticipating what's next to deliver the solutions our customers need now.Salary Range: $112,200.00 - $196,400.00We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days and will continue to be posted for an average of 30 days until a qualified applicant is selected or the position has been cancelled.Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!

Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer tohttps://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.


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