Network and Computer Systems Engineer (5246)
SMX is seeking a System Administrator to join our team! This position will provide on-site support for the Navy Region Southwest command in San Diego, California.As a System Administrator, you will be responsible for administering and maintaining Windows based operating environments across enterprise systems and dependent sub systems. Your role includes executing configuration management, system hardening, patch deployment, and performance tuning in accordance with organizational baselines and security compliance requirements.You will provide Tier II/III support to field technicians and operations by validating, diagnosing, and resolving incidents and service requests in alignment with defined SLAs. This includes analyzing system logs, performing root cause analysis, and implementing corrective and preventive actions to ensure system stability and availability.You’ll collaborate with project managers, field engineering teams, and government stakeholders to deploy system enhancements, integrate new capabilities, and optimize system performance in compliance with Authority to Operate (ATO) controls and cybersecurity frameworks. Operating within a mission critical environment, you will lead core system administration functions—leveraging telemetry, monitoring tools, and operational metrics to generate actionable insights that strengthen system reliability, security posture, and operational readiness.This position requires a DoD secret security clearance which requires US citizenship for work on DoD contracts.Application Deadline: May 11, 2026 Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesNetwork Administration & ArchitectureImplement computer networking concepts, protocols, and security methodologies to support secure and reliable system operationsConduct detailed network mapping to document system interconnections, identify data flows, validate network architecture, and support troubleshooting and RMF documentationImplement secure network architecture principles, including system configuration, routing, and LAN topology designApply network and computer protection protocols such as firewalls, access control, and account managementSystem Maintenance & OperationsApply weekly and as needed software updates and patches across all system components to meet cybersecurity requirementsPerform and maintain monthly system backups to ensure data integrity and recoverabilityManage Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) to support remediation efforts and field system troubleshootingApply monthly maintenance and vulnerability mitigation on Windows OS GFE systemsEnsure monitoring tools remain operational and provide accurate alerting for events, incidents, and system anomaliesHelp Desk & Customer SupportDeliver comprehensive help desk support to local and remote users, ensuring system functionality, interoperability, and rapid issue resolutionProactively diagnose hardware, software, network, and account related issues using structured troubleshooting methodologiesProvide clear, step by step technical guidance to users with varying levels of technical proficiencyDocument incidents, service requests, troubleshooting steps, and resolutions in accordance with organizational standardsEscalate complex issues to SMEs or higher tier support and coordinate equipment replacement or configuration as neededConsistently meet help desk response and resolution requirements for government customersCybersecurity Operations & RMF ComplianceExecute system changes and configuration modifications as directed by the Information Systems Security Engineer (ISSE) to maintain cybersecurity complianceMaintain and update documentation required for RMF Step 6 - Continuous Monitoring activitiesMonitor CVEs and cybersecurity directives to ensure continuous compliance with evolving security requirementsPrepare and deliver monthly cybersecurity posture reports to the Regional ISSMACAS Vulnerability Analysis & RemediationReview, analyze, and validate ACAS scan results to identify vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and compliance gapsAssess findings against system baselines and security controls to determine severity, operational impact, and remediation priorityProvide detailed feedback to ISSE and SMEs, clearly outlining root causes, affected components, and recommended corrective actionsDevelop structured remediation plans with defined timelines, responsible parties, and verification stepsTrack remediation progress and follow up with technical teams to ensure timely closure of findingsPerform targeted re-scans to validate that corrective actions fully resolved vulnerabilities without introducing new issuesDocument findings, remediation actions, and verification results for submission to VRAM and eMASS in alignment with RMF reporting standardsIdentify recurring or systemic issues and recommend long term improvements to strengthen overall cyber postureAdvanced Troubleshooting & SME CoordinationCoordinate with system SMEs to resolve advanced application and system issuesSupport remediation plans and field troubleshooting through effective GFE management and technical collaborationRequired Skills & ExperienceRequired Skills & ExperienceSecurity Clearance: Active Secret or higherEducation: Bachelor’s degree + 4 years DoD experienceSubstitutions: Associate + 8 years total experience OR High School Diploma + 10 years total experienceCertifications: Current Security+ or equivalent DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II (Navy CSWF compliant)Technical Proficiency:Networking: Cisco/Juniper routing, switching, port management, mapping, and complex troubleshootingSystems Admin: Windows administration, GPO, patching, backups, and vulnerability mitigationCybersecurity: RMF Step 6 Continuous Monitoring, STIG implementation, CVE analysis, and DoD complianceVulnerability Management: ACAS scan validation, remediation planning, and VRAM/eMASS documentationDatabase & Systems: SQL/DQL data retrieval and IP-based camera system supportSpecialized Security PlatformsAccess Control: Hands-on expertise with Milestone, Lenel OnGuard, DAQ SMS, CCure 9000, and Honeywell-VindicatorHardware: Proficient with Magnasphere, HID, Axis, Pelco, and Bosch Security SystemsProfessional CapabilitiesOperations: Collaborative liaison for DoD organizations, SMEs, and government customers to ensure readinessExecution: Expert in technical writing, incident documentation, and multi-project managementProblem Solving: Analytical thinker capable of delivering clear guidance in fast-paced environmentsDesired Skills & Experience Experience working with ISSE, ISSM, or ISSO in fast paced DoD, deadline-driven environmentMilestone, Lenel OnGuard, AXIS Certified Professional or similar industry certification, Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification, CompTIA A+, Network+, VMWare/VCP certificationsAbility to clearly communicate technical network and computer troubleshooting concepts, protocols and methodsExperience with SQL, VMWare or other database repositoriesExperience with DoD Electronic Security System (ESS) programming and admin #CJPOST The SMX salary determination process takes into account a number of factors, including but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories, relevant prior work experience, specific skills, education and certifications. At SMX, one of our Core Values is to Invest in Our People so we offer a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits. Some key components of our robust benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement.The proposed salary for this position is:: $93,000 USD - $118,000 USD At SMX®, we are a team of technical and domain experts dedicated to enabling your mission. From priority national security initiatives for the DoD to highly assured and compliant solutions for healthcare, we understand that digital transformation is key to your future success.We share your vision for the future and strive to accelerate your impact on the world. We bring both cutting edge technology and an expansive view of what’s possible to every engagement. Our delivery model and unique approaches harness our deep technical and domain knowledge, providing forward-looking insights and practical solutions to power secure mission acceleration.SMX is an Equal Opportunity employer including disabilities and veterans.Selected applicant may be subject to a background investigation and/or education verification.SMX does not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization or immigration related support for this position (i.e. H1B, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, TN, E-2, E-3, L-1 and O-1, or any EADs or other forms of work authorization that require immigration support from an employer).