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Windows System Admin Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

System Admin

Herndon, VA · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Systems Administrator, Onsite. Start date is Mid-June for this Permanent position. Job Title ... Windows environments Experience supporting enterprise IT environments, including domains, user ...

MANTECH seeks a skilled and motivated Windows Systems Administrator to join our team of top ... Research and resolve operating system problems efficiently and accurately in adherence to ...

MANTECH seeks a skilled and motivated Windows Systems Administrator to join our team of top ... Research and resolve operating system problems efficiently and accurately in adherence to ...

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Windows System Admin information

See Virginia salary details

$53.5K

$95.1K

$129.4K

How much do windows system admin jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for windows system admin in Virginia is $95,134.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $109,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Windows System Admins?

Windows System Admins, or Windows System Administrators, are IT professionals responsible for managing, configuring, and maintaining Microsoft Windows-based servers and systems within an organization. Their duties include installing software, managing user accounts, ensuring system security, troubleshooting issues, and performing regular backups. They play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation, reliability, and security of an organization’s IT infrastructure.

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

To thrive as a Windows System Admin, you need a solid understanding of Windows server environments, Active Directory, networking concepts, and typically a relevant degree or certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Fundamentals. Familiarity with tools like PowerShell, Hyper-V, System Center, and backup/restore systems is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in managing incidents, collaborating with teams, and supporting end users. These competencies are crucial for ensuring system reliability, security, and efficient IT operations in business environments.

What is the difference between Windows System Admin vs Network Administrator?

AspectWindows System AdminNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCompTIA Server+, Microsoft Certified: Windows Server FundamentalsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentManaging Windows servers, Active Directory, and system securityConfiguring and maintaining network infrastructure, routers, switches
Primary FocusServer and OS managementNetwork connectivity and infrastructure

While both roles involve IT infrastructure, Windows System Admins focus on managing Windows servers and related systems, whereas Network Administrators handle network hardware and connectivity. Both roles often collaborate but have distinct responsibilities within an organization's IT environment.

How much does a Windows Administrator make?

The average salary for a Windows System Administrator typically ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Experienced administrators with skills in scripting, virtualization, and security can earn higher salaries, especially in enterprise environments or with specialized certifications like Microsoft Certified: Windows Server.

Is system admin a high paying job?

A Windows System Administrator is generally considered a well-paying IT role, with salaries often above average for technology positions. Compensation depends on experience, certifications, and location, with specialized skills in scripting, networking, and security increasing earning potential.

What is a typical sysadmin salary?

A Windows System Administrator's salary varies based on experience, location, and certifications, but generally ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually in the United States. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced admins with skills in scripting, virtualization, and security can earn higher salaries. Salaries are also influenced by the size of the organization and the complexity of the IT environment.

What are some common challenges Windows System Administrators face when managing large enterprise environments?

Windows System Administrators in large enterprise settings often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent configurations across multiple servers, ensuring security compliance, and managing software updates without disrupting business operations. They also need to troubleshoot complex issues that may arise due to the interaction of various applications and network components. Effective communication and collaboration with other IT teams, such as network and security specialists, are essential to address these challenges efficiently and maintain a stable IT infrastructure.

Will sysadmin be replaced by AI?

Windows System Administrators perform tasks that require critical thinking, troubleshooting, and managing complex systems, which AI currently cannot fully replicate. While automation and AI tools can handle routine tasks, sysadmins are essential for overseeing system security, configuration, and problem resolution, making complete replacement unlikely in the near future.
What job categories do people searching Windows System Admin jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Windows System Admin jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Windows System Admin job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,134 per year, or $45.7 per hour.
Classified Windows System Administrator

Classified Windows System Administrator

The Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

Job Summary

Join The Aerospace Corporation as a Classified Windows System Administrator (Systems Administration Specialist II/III) and play a pivotal role in securing and advancing critical national space assets.

In this dynamic role, you will deploy, operate, and maintain our enterprise-scale corporate server infrastructure as part of the high-performing Computational Services team. You will oversee thousands of enterprise and high-performance computing systems across both on-premise and cloud environments, collaborating closely with world-class rocket scientists and engineers to develop cutting-edge solutions to complex challenges in the space enterprise. In your day-to-day work, you will manage both virtual and physical server infrastructures, ensuring robust system security and adherence to operational best practices.

Our team thrives on a shared sense of responsibility and ownership, emphasizing collaboration across diverse, cross-functional groups. If you are passionate about innovative technology, eager to contribute to mission-critical projects, and ready to advance your career in a supportive, forward-thinking work environment, we invite you to apply and join us at the forefront of aerospace innovation.

Hiring for two full-time, on-site positions-one based in El Segundo, CA and one based in Chantilly, VA.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Expertly manage and deploy enterprise-grade Windows server systems, ensuring robust performance and reliability in high-demand environments.
  • Oversee and optimize virtual server environments and infrastructure operations to maximize efficiency and scalability.
  • Implement rigorous system hardening measures and continuous monitoring to maintain optimal security posture and compliance with industry standards.
  • Apply critical security updates and remediate system vulnerabilities promptly, safeguarding infrastructure against evolving threats.
  • Provide comprehensive support for remote access solutions such as Citrix and Windows Terminal Server, ensuring secure and seamless connectivity for distributed teams.
  • Install, operate, and maintain high-performance server hardware and storage solutions, reinforcing a stable and resilient IT foundation.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for Systems Administration Specialist II:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Minimum (2) years of experience inenterprise Windows administration including provisioning, configuration, troubleshooting, performance tuning, and security hardening forclassified and unclassifiedenterprise environments is required.
  • Minimum (1) year of enterprise virtualization experience with either VMware or Hyper-V is required.
  • Proven ability to articulate ideas clearly and effectively in both written and verbal formats, facilitating seamless collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated expertise in time management and task prioritization, ensuring efficient execution of responsibilities even in high-pressure environments.
  • Ready to embrace change and excel in dynamic work environments, quickly adjusting to evolving organizational needs and challenges.
  • A committed professional who takes pride in delivering outstanding customer service while upholding the highest standards of personal and professional integrity.
  • Ability to obtain DoD 8570.01-m requirements for IAT Level II personnel such as CompTIA Security+ certificationis required.
  • This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required.

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Systems Administration Specialist III include:

  • Minimum (3 years inenterprise Windows administration including provisioning, configuration, troubleshooting, performance tuning, and security hardening forclassified and unclassifiedenterprise environments is required.
  • Minimum (3) years of experiencesupporting an enterprise-scale Windows environment that includes NFS or Windows filesystemsharesand Active Directory integration is required.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or Information Systems/Technology is highly desirable, or an equivalent level of practical experience demonstrating advanced problem-solving capabilities in enterprise IT environments, is preferred.

  • Proven experience in automating repetitive tasks using modern DevOps and scripting tools such as Puppet, PowerShell DSC, Ansible, Bash, PowerShell, Terraform, or Python, ensuring efficient system management and operational excellence.

  • Demonstrated knowledge and hands-on experience with critical Windows environments, including:

    • MS SQL Always-On Clustering:Expert in implementing and managing high-availability SQL Server clusters.
    • Virtualization Platforms:Proficient with VMware ESXi, vCenter, and associated high availability services, as well as Hyper-V and Windows Admin Center for robust virtualization management.
  • Experience deploying and maintaining Windows systems in air-gapped environments is preferred, highlighting your ability to manage and secure isolated network infrastructures.

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$30.80 - $56.16Pay Basis: Hourly

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.