Senior Systems Administrator / Engineer at By Light Professional IT Services

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Systems Administrator / Engineer to join our IT and Network Operations team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience deploying, maintaining, and managing common Network Operations (NETOPS) platforms such as SolarWinds, DX NetOps (DX Spectrum), and/or CodeMettle. The role involves automating routine processes, developing dashboards for Common Operational Picture (COP) displays, and ensuring the smooth operation of our network infrastructure. 

By Light Offers:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment.

Responsibilities

Deploy and Maintain NETOPS Platforms:

• Install, configure, and manage NETOPS platforms including SolarWinds, DX NetOps (DX Spectrum), and/or CodeMettle.
• Lead for Network Management Systems (NMS), performing monitoring and management of networks, systems, servers, unified communications (UC), and security platforms.
• Ensure platforms are updated, secure, and running efficiently.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues related to NETOPS platforms.
• Develop duplicate monitoring and management platforms on both unclassified DoDIN-A(NG) “NIPR”, and classified DoDIN-A(NG-S) “SIPR” networks.

Automation and Scripting:

• Develop and implement scripts to automate routine network and system administration tasks.
• Use automation tools and techniques to improve efficiency and reduce manual workload.
• Maintain and update automation scripts as needed.
• Automate global push of configuration/update changes to meet Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG) compliance requirements.

Dashboard Development and Maintenance:

• Design and create dashboards to provide Common Operational Picture (COP) displays for network operations.
• Ensure dashboards are accurate, up-to-date, and provide actionable insights.
• Customize dashboards based on stakeholder requirements.
• Collect service owner information exchange requirements (IERs) as baseline requirements for developing customized monitoring tools.

Monitoring and Performance Tuning:

• Monitor network performance and ensure optimal functioning of all network components.
• Perform regular performance tuning and optimization of NETOPS platforms.
• Implement and maintain network monitoring policies and procedures.
• Develop customized NOC/SOC monitoring tools, providing “single pane of glass” visibility to service owners for their Automated Information Systems (AIS) and critical dependencies.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain comprehensive documentation of network configurations, procedures, and changes.
• Generate and present regular reports on network performance, issues, and resolutions.
• Generate contract deliverables for Capacity and Availability (C&A) Management such as WAN Availability Reports, WAN Circuit Capacity Utilization Reports, and Trend Analysis Reports.
• Generate and manage cases/tickets in ServiceNow as part of the Army Enterprise Service Managed Platform (AESMP).
• Provide documentation and training to other team members as needed.

Collaboration and Support:

• Work closely with other IT and network operations team members to support network-related projects and initiatives.
• Provide expert-level support for network-related incidents and service requests.
• Provide analysis and resolution recommendations for event and incident management.
• Mentor and train junior team members.
• Develop monitoring tools for unified communications (UC) platforms including video, voice, and voice over IP (VoIP). Focus on quality of service (QoS) metrics for improved service of VoIP, and Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) trunks.

Required Experience/Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• BA/BS in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in network/systems administration, with a focus on NETOPS platforms.
• Possess the appropriate computing environment (CE) training/certification to meet DoD 8570.01-M requirements.
• Possess the appropriate baseline certifications to achieve DoD 8570.01-M Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level II.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in deploying and managing NETOPS platforms such as SolarWinds, DX NetOps (DX Spectrum), and/or CodeMettle.
• Strong scripting skills (e.g., PowerShell, Python, Bash) for automation purposes.
• Experience scripting CLI configuration updates for network and security platforms (Cisco, Palo Alto, etc.).
• Experience with network monitoring tools and techniques.
• Knowledge of network protocols, configurations, and troubleshooting.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and documentation abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Experience/Qualifications

• Certifications in network administration or related fields (e.g., CompTIA Network+, CCNA, CCNP, etc.).
• Well versed with server operating systems, and common virtualization technologies, preferably VMware (vSphere, vCenter).
• Experience with other network management and monitoring tools.
• Familiarity with ITILv4 practices and procedures, with a focus on Monitoring Services & Event Management.

Special Requirements/Security Clearance

• Active SECRET DoD clearance or higher

By Light provides a broad range of hardware, software, engineering, and IT integration services. Headquartered in Tysons, VA, we support defense, civilian, commercial, and health IT customers worldwide. We offer an excellent benefits package that includes: medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, and 401(k) match.