Junior Systems Administrator

Job description

Saalex is seeking a Jr. Systems Administrator in China Lake, CA. Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and Information Technology Services company with a focus on Test Range Operations and Management, Engineering and Logistics Services, Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Services and Information Technology Services.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $65k-$75k annually (depending on experience)

Work Location: Onsite.

Position Summary:

We are seeking an Entry level System Administrator (SA) to support the Aircrew Electronic Warfare Tactical Training Ranges (AEWTTR) program to provide support to the Threat Support Systems (TSS) environment. The SA, located at China Lake, CA, will have local program support responsibilities. This position requires the ability to work independently with minimal oversight and guidance, including preparing professional reports and cybersecurity documentation with direct guidance and oversight. The ideal candidate will also be a strong team player who is willing to embrace challenges, operate outside their comfort zone, and thrive in a dynamic and evolving program environment.

Essential Functions:

• Collaborate effectively with government personnel, program leadership, and contractor teammates to support secure and accredited information systems.
• Assist with cybersecurity, system accreditation, and Risk Management Framework (RMF) activities in support of DoD programs.
• Support vulnerability assessment and remediation efforts, including STIG compliance and vulnerability management initiatives.
• Prepare, review, and maintain technical documentation, reports, and cybersecurity artifacts.
• Engage directly with government stakeholders and support program objectives through effective communication and problem resolution.
• Balance multiple priorities while ensuring timely completion of assigned tasks.
• Operate independently at the China Lake worksite while maintaining coordination with remote team members and program leadership.
• Adapt to evolving requirements, processes, and mission priorities within a dynamic operational environment.

Requirements

Required:

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment with government and contractor personnel

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities, technologies, and mission requirements.
• Experience supporting secure IT environments, cybersecurity initiatives, or system accreditation efforts.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accountability and collaboration.
• Professional maturity and confidence when interacting with government customers and stakeholders.

Desired:

• Experience with Department of Defense (DoD) cybersecurity policies, RMF processes, and system authorization activities.
• Familiarity with eMASS, ACAS, DISA STIGs, and vulnerability management practices.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity compliance requirements and secure system administration principles.
• Completion of or willingness to complete DAU cybersecurity and system authorization training courses.
• Industry certifications such as:

• CompTIA Security+
• CompTIA Cloud+
• CompTIA SecurityX (formerly CASP+)
• Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

• Experience developing technical reports, compliance documentation, and executive-level briefings.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field. Equivalent combination of education, military service, and relevant professional experience may be considered.

Security Clearance:

• Active Secret clearance required with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc.

Professional Development (within first year of employment):

The selected candidate will be expected to complete company-supported professional development activities, including:

• DAU Cybersecurity and System Authorization (SA) training courses (e.g., CLE 074, Cybersecurity Fundamentals, RMF for DoD IT).

• Advanced RMF and System Authorization training, including eMASS user training.
• DISA STIG and ACAS Vulnerability Management workshops.
• Professional development courses focused on technical writing, documentation, and communication skills.
• Progression toward advanced cybersecurity or networking certifications, such as Security+, Cloud+, SecurityX (CASP+), CCSP, or CCNP.

Benefits

• Employer Paid Health Care Plans for Employees & Family
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Wellness Resources
• Stock Option Benefit