Sr Principal Linux Systems Administrator - Polygraph

Due to the classified nature of the work, this position requires on-site work at our Morrisville, NC location and does not offer remote or telecommute options. A current Top Secret security clearance with SCI access eligibility and a recent Polygraph (adjudicated within the last 5 years) are required to start. Ability to obtain and maintain access to Special Programs is a condition of continued employment. Relocation assistance is not available. Travel is required, up to 10% of the time.

About the Role

At Northrop Grumman, our employees work on revolutionary systems that impact lives globally, both today and for future generations. We foster a culture of intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and innovation, enabling missions in rapidly changing global security environments. As a Principal Computer Systems Analyst (Linux Systems Administrator), you will support information system lifecycle activities in a classified environment, contributing to secure, affordable, and integrated technological solutions.

This role offers flexible work arrangements, learning opportunities, diverse project exposure, and a collaborative team environment. Our benefits include health insurance, life and disability insurance, a 9/80 work schedule, a 401k matching program, paid holidays, and paid time off (PTO).

Responsibilities

• Perform as a Principal Computer Systems Analyst - Linux in support of classified government contracts.
• Exhibit strong communication skills, an energetic approach, and patience with customers while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Report task statuses in written and oral formats for recurring and non-recurring efforts.
• Support multiple networks, ensuring Linux administration tasks are completed with minimal direction and coordination with cross-functional teams.
• Maintain operations of multi-user computer systems, collaborating with system engineers, PC desktop technicians, networking engineers, project managers, end users, and IT/Cyber management.
• Assist with reviewing internal customer requirements and recommend hardware, software, and system component purchases.
• Maintain system reliability through installation, upgrading/patching, monitoring, problem resolution, and configuration management.
• Provide and maintain backup and recovery services, manage file systems and disk space, and ensure routine virus protection.
• Test new product releases to ensure compatibility and minimize user impact.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation of system processes and procedures.
• Adhere to strict Information Systems security guidelines, supporting Computer Security with documentation inputs as required.
• Maintain security audit and logging information on all classified networked and standalone computers as directed by the Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM).
• Work across disciplines to isolate issues between software, firmware, hardware, operating systems, networks, and applications.
• Support environments using ticketing systems (ServiceNow, JIRA, etc.).
• Escalate issues requiring senior-level attention or involvement.
• Lift and move equipment up to 50 pounds.
• Work after hours and weekends as needed.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree with 5 years of IT experience; OR a Bachelor’s Degree with 7 years of IT experience; OR an Associate’s Degree with 9 years of IT experience; OR a High School Diploma/GED with 11 years of IT experience.
• Security+ CE certification (or equivalent IAT level II certification).
• Experience with Linux Server Administration in a classified environment.
• Experience installing, configuring, and maintaining resources in an AWS cloud environment.
• Experience implementing STIGs (Security Technical Implementation Guides) on Linux systems.
• Current Top Secret security clearance with SCI access eligibility and a recent Polygraph (adjudicated within the last 5 years).

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Security+ CE, Linux+ or RHCSA, and 9 years of Linux Server Administration experience in a classified environment.
• Experience deploying Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, Helm, Ansible).
• Experience operating under and managing systems within NISPOM, ICD 503, or JSIG information system environments.
• Current virtualization experience and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes, etc.).
• Knowledge of networking, including subnets, routing, VLANs, and VTCs.
• Knowledge of environmental monitoring tools (HBSS/Solar Winds/Splunk).
• Scripting experience (e.g., Python, C++).
• Cross-platform awareness (Windows, Linux, Solaris, OSX, UNIX, etc.).
• Experience with the creation and deployment of system images in an enterprise environment.
• Experience with the Assessment & Authorization process.

Pay

Primary salary range: $123,400.00 - $185,000.00. The final offer considers scope, responsibilities, experience, education, skills, and current market conditions. Eligible employees may receive overtime, shift differentials, and discretionary bonuses in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses reward individual contributions and company results. Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives.

Schedule

This role follows a 9/80 work schedule.