Senior System Administrator

As a Senior System Administrator at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA), you'll have a variety of responsibilities centered around supporting the Project Manager Cyber and Space office. Your tasks will include performing installations, troubleshooting, and maintaining information systems, encompassing hardware and software as well as network integration. In addition, you'll update and harden security across various servers, including physical and cloud-based environments, ensuring compliance with Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIG).

To qualify for the Senior System Administrator position at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc., candidates should possess a BA/BS degree in a related field such as Information Technology or Cybersecurity. Additionally, candidates must have an Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level II certification and at least six years of experience in system administration. An active DoD TS/SCI clearance is also required, along with the ability to maintain it throughout employment.

A candidate for the Senior System Administrator position at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. should be familiar with scripting technologies that support Infrastructure as Code, specifically Amazon CloudFormation, Terraform, or Ansible. These skills are essential for managing cloud resources and ensuring efficient deployment and management of infrastructure.

At Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc., Senior System Administrators can expect a collaborative and innovative work environment focused on supporting national security efforts. The culture at SPA is built on teamwork and continuous improvement, providing ample opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects and develop professionally.

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. is dedicated to the professional growth of its employees, including Senior System Administrators. The company supports continuous learning through training programs, workshops, and certifications in relevant technologies and practices, allowing team members to stay updated with current industry trends and enhance their skills.

When answering this question, focus on specific instances from your previous roles. Describe the types of systems you managed, any challenges you faced with installations, and how you resolved them. Mention the skills you've developed, especially regarding system performance and reliability.

Share your experience with STIGs and how you have implemented them in past roles. Discuss any specific configurations you've managed on Windows, Linux, or network-based technologies, which would highlight your commitment to security and compliance.

Explain your troubleshooting process, including how you identify the problem, analyze potential causes, and apply solutions. Providing a specific example of a past troubleshooting experience can effectively demonstrate your systematic approach to resolving technical challenges.

Discuss your hands-on experience with cloud platforms, particularly any work you've done with Amazon CloudFormation or Terraform. Highlight your understanding of Infrastructure as Code concepts, and explain how they've improved deployment processes in your past work environments.

Talk about your strategies for continuous learning, such as participating in relevant online courses, attending conferences, or following industry publications. Mentioning your proactive approach to professional development showcases your dedication to staying ahead in your field.

Outline your approach to system security, including routine audits, applying security updates, and utilizing best practices for user access management. Providing specific examples of security measures you've implemented can strengthen your response.

Share your techniques for managing stress during high-pressure situations, such as prioritizing tasks, maintaining clear communication, and remaining organized. Giving an example of a time where you effectively managed stress to meet a deadline can enhance your response.

Describe a specific scenario where collaboration was key to overcoming a challenge. Highlight your role in fostering teamwork and communication, and the outcome of the group's efforts, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in systems administration.

Explain your level of proficiency with various scripting languages and automation tools, detailing your experience in automating tasks or optimizing workflows. Providing concrete examples of projects you've completed using these tools can help illustrate your skills.

Express your enthusiasm for SPA's mission and values, especially how they align with your personal and professional goals. Discuss the aspects of SPA's work in national security that inspire you, and how you believe your skills will contribute to their objectives.