Lead Classified Systems Administrator

Title:

Lead Classified Systems Administrator

KBR is a global leader in delivering technology-driven, mission-critical, and sustainable solutions that truly matter. For over a century, we have powered bold missions across defense, space, industry, and government through our two core business lines Mission Technology Solutions and Sustainable Technology Solutions. With nearly 38,000 talented people operating in more than 80 countries, we thrive on a culture built on safety, integrity, and teamwork. At KBR, we empower our people to solve the world’s toughest challenges and create lasting value for communities and the planet. We don’t just deliver results, we deliver game-changing solutions, innovative technology, deep domain expertise, and cutting-edge technologies.

KBR is seeking a Lead Classified Systems Administrator to join our Corporate IT team in Ann Arbor, MI. This position serves as the technical lead for a large, complex classified infrastructure with a significant focus on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) administration, security, and modernization. The successful candidate will be the team's Linux subject matter expert, responsible for maintaining, optimizing, troubleshooting, and securing mission-critical systems across a broad enterprise environment. In addition to providing technical leadership for Linux-based platforms, this role will guide infrastructure improvements, support integrated Windows services, mentor system administrators, and partner with cybersecurity, network, and engineering teams to deliver reliable, scalable, and secure solutions in a highly regulated environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the administration, maintenance, and optimization of enterprise systems, including servers, desktops, storage devices, and peripheral equipment
• Serve as the technical lead and primary escalation point for complex system, infrastructure, and performance issues
• Oversee OS and software upgrades, patching strategies, and lifecycle management to maintain a secure and compliant environment
• Provide hands-on support for advanced troubleshooting across Windows, Linux, and integrated environments
• Coordinate and prioritize team activities, ensuring timely execution of operational tasks and project deliverables
• Design, implement, and lead infrastructure improvements, system enhancements, and modernization initiatives
• Manage and validate backup, recovery, and disaster recovery processes to ensure business continuity
• Monitor system performance, identify risks, and proactively implement security and optimization measures
• Collaborate with network, cybersecurity, and IT support teams to support enterprise-wide initiatives and system integrations
• Partner with vendors and third-party providers to resolve complex issues and support system enhancements
• Provide clear communication and status updates to stakeholders, leadership, and customers
• Develop, standardize, and improve system administration processes, procedures, and documentation
• Mentor and guide junior administrators, fostering technical growth and best practices across the team

Basic Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• B.S. Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Systems Engineering, or related field. Additional relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree
• 8+ years of relevant experience, including 5+ years serving as a primary Linux Systems Administrator supporting large-scale enterprise or DoD environments.
• Citizenship & Clearance: Must be a US Citizen. Must have a TS/SCI Clearance with a CI Polygraph or be able to obtain and maintain.
• Certifications: Must have CompTIA Security+ CE, CISSP, or IAW DoD 8570 certifications

Technical Expertise:

• Advanced hands-on Linux system administration experience, including Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), operating system lifecycle management, patching, security hardening, performance tuning, and troubleshooting in enterprise production environments.
• Experience administering enterprise Linux environments, supporting mission-critical systems with responsibilities across deployment, maintenance, upgrades, and incident resolution.
• Experience implementing and maintaining Linux security controls, including STIG compliance, vulnerability remediation, auditing, and system hardening in DoD or other regulated environments.
• Experience with Linux scripting and automation tools such as Bash, Python, Ansible, or similar technologies used to streamline administration and configuration management.
• Experience supporting integrated Windows environments, including Windows Server, Active Directory, and Group Policy.
• Strong experience with virtualization technologies (VMware) and enterprise storage and backup solutions.
• Proven ability to design, evaluate, and implement IT infrastructure solutions in complex environments.
• Expertise in troubleshooting and resolving high-impact operating system, hardware, virtualization, and infrastructure issues.
• Demonstrated expertise administering Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) in a large-scale enterprise environment. Candidates should possess deep experience with Linux troubleshooting, patch management, system security, performance tuning, and automation.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with cybersecurity hardening compliance tools such as STIG Viewer, SCAP Compliance Checker, and OpenSCAP
• Familiarity with the DoD Risk Management Framework (RMF) and configuring systems for DoD Special Access Programs in accordance with JSIG requirements
• Hands-on experience with machine virtualization, including transitioning legacy products to virtualized environments
• Experience with vulnerability scanning tools and implementing mitigation strategies
• Knowledge of advanced security practices and compliance standards in a government or defense IT environment
• Prior experience leading small teams or projects with significant complexity and risk

Additional Compensation: KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short term incentives, long term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

Benefits: KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include a 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR

At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture.  These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company.  That commitment is central to our team of team’s philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver – Together. 

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.