📍 Job Overview

• Job Title: Systems Administrator
• Company: Bowhead
• Location: Arlington, VA, United States
• Job Type: On-site, Full-Time
• Category: Server Administration, DevOps
• Date Posted: August 1, 2025
• Experience Level: 10+ years
• Remote Status: On-site only

🚀 Role Summary

• Key Responsibilities: Administer and maintain secure cloud infrastructure, manage cloud migration initiatives, ensure compliance with DoD cybersecurity frameworks, and provide technical guidance to junior staff.
• Key Technologies: Cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, ARM templates), monitoring tools (CloudWatch, Splunk), containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), scripting (Python, PowerShell, Bash), and configuration management (Ansible, Puppet).

💻 Primary Responsibilities

🚀 Cloud Infrastructure Management

• Administer and maintain cloud infrastructure across multiple classification levels, including DoD IL4/IL5 environments.
• Implement and manage Infrastructure as Code (IaC) solutions using tools such as Terraform or ARM templates.
• Monitor cloud system performance, availability, and security posture using enterprise monitoring tools.

🛠️ System Configuration & Maintenance

• Configure and manage virtual machines, containers, storage systems, and networking components in secure cloud environments.
• Implement and maintain backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity procedures for mission-critical systems.
• Troubleshoot complex cloud infrastructure issues and implement innovative solutions.

🔒 Security & Compliance

• Collaborate with security teams to ensure compliance with DoD cybersecurity frameworks (RMF, NIST, STIG, DoD 8140).
• Participate in security assessments, vulnerability remediation efforts, and accreditation processes.
• Manage privileged access controls and implement zero-trust architecture principles.

💸 Cost Optimization & Resource Allocation

• Manage cloud cost optimization and resource allocation to maximize operational efficiency.
• Conduct performance tuning and capacity planning for cloud resources.

🌐 Stakeholder Interaction & Leadership

• Interface with government stakeholders, vendors, and external partners in technical forums and working groups.
• Lead cloud migration initiatives and provide technical guidance to junior staff.
• Develop and implement cloud governance policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with DevSecOps teams to integrate security practices.
• Provide training and mentorship to junior team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a high level of technical expertise and leadership, with a strong focus on cloud infrastructure management, security, and compliance in DoD environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

🎓 Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field from an ABET-accredited institution. A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience may be substituted in lieu of the degree requirement.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in systems administration.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience managing cloud infrastructure in DoD or federal environments.
• Proven experience with DoD IL4/IL5 cloud environment administration and compliance.

🛠️ Required Skills

• Proficiency in Linux/Unix and Windows server administration in cloud environments.
• Strong experience with containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes, OpenShift).
• Advanced knowledge of networking protocols, firewalls, VPNs, and cloud security best practices.
• Experience with monitoring and logging tools (CloudWatch, Splunk, ELK stack, Nagios).
• Strong scripting and automation skills (PowerShell, Python, Bash, Ansible).
• Experience with configuration management tools (Ansible, Puppet, Chef).
• Knowledge of DevOps practices and CI/CD pipeline implementation.
• Familiarity with DoD Enterprise DevSecOps platforms and methodologies.

🏆 Preferred Skills

• DoD 8570 IAM Level III certification.
• Multiple cloud platform certifications.
• Advanced security certifications (CISSP, CISM, or equivalent).
• Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA).
• Kubernetes certifications (CKA, CKAD).

📝 Enhancement Note: While the preferred skills are not explicitly stated in the job listing, they can be inferred based on the role's complexity, the required certifications, and the need for advanced technical expertise in cloud infrastructure management and security.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience in cloud infrastructure administration, focusing on secure cloud environments and DoD compliance.
• Showcase projects that highlight your ability to manage and optimize cloud resources, ensuring high availability and performance.
• Include examples of your scripting and automation skills, as well as your experience with configuration management tools.

Technical Documentation:

• Provide detailed documentation of your cloud infrastructure configurations, procedures, and compliance measures.
• Include examples of your participation in security assessments, vulnerability remediation efforts, and accreditation processes.
• Demonstrate your ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date technical documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: As this role requires a high level of technical expertise and leadership, your portfolio should showcase your ability to manage complex cloud infrastructure projects, ensure security and compliance, and provide technical guidance to others.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this role is estimated to be between $120,000 and $160,000 per year, based on regional market data for experienced systems administrators with relevant cloud infrastructure and security expertise in the Arlington, VA area.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays).
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
• Employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives.

Working Hours: This role requires a standard 40-hour workweek, with the possibility of on-call rotations for mission-critical systems. Some flexibility may be available for deployment windows and maintenance tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range and benefits listed above are estimates based on regional market data and industry standards for experienced systems administrators with relevant cloud infrastructure and security expertise. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's qualifications and the company's internal compensation structure.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Bowhead operates in the defense and government services sector, focusing on mission-critical systems and secure cloud environments. This role will involve working with government stakeholders and managing cloud infrastructure for legacy DoD applications.

Company Size: Bowhead is a mid-sized company with a strong focus on technical expertise and customer satisfaction. As a systems administrator in this role, you will be part of a team responsible for managing critical cloud infrastructure and ensuring high availability and performance.

Founded: Bowhead was founded in 1994 and has since grown to become a trusted provider of mission-critical systems and services to the U.S. government.

Team Structure:

• The cloud infrastructure team consists of experienced systems administrators, cloud engineers, and DevSecOps specialists.
• The team follows a matrix reporting structure, with members reporting to both technical leads and project managers.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, as the team works closely with development, security, and project management teams to ensure the successful migration and management of legacy DoD applications.

Development Methodology:

• The team follows Agile/Scrum methodologies, with regular sprint planning, code reviews, and quality assurance practices.
• Infrastructure as Code (IaC) is used to ensure version control, automated deployment, and consistent configurations across environments.
• Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines are employed to automate deployment and testing processes.

Company Website: Bowhead

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead's focus on mission-critical systems and secure cloud environments requires a high level of technical expertise and attention to detail from its systems administrators. The company's culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: This role is at the senior level, requiring a high degree of technical expertise and leadership in cloud infrastructure management and security. As a senior systems administrator, you will be responsible for managing complex cloud infrastructure projects, ensuring security and compliance, and providing technical guidance to junior staff.

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Cloud Infrastructure Manager and may have supervisory responsibilities for junior team members.

Technical Impact: As a senior systems administrator, you will have a significant impact on the security, performance, and availability of Bowhead's cloud infrastructure. Your work will directly contribute to the successful migration and management of legacy DoD applications, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of security and compliance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Growth: Expand your expertise in cloud infrastructure management, security, and compliance by working on complex projects and collaborating with experienced team members.
• Leadership Development: Develop your leadership skills by mentoring junior team members, leading cloud migration initiatives, and contributing to the development of cloud governance policies and procedures.
• Architecture Decisions: Contribute to strategic architecture decisions by providing technical guidance and expertise in cloud infrastructure management and security.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for technical growth and leadership development, as well as the chance to make a real impact on the security and performance of Bowhead's cloud infrastructure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Bowhead's office is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to facilitate cross-functional teamwork and innovation. As an on-site employee, you will have access to state-of-the-art development tools, multiple monitors, and testing devices to support your work.

Office Location(s): Bowhead's Arlington, VA office is conveniently located near public transportation and offers ample parking. The office is designed to be accessible and inclusive, with features such as wheelchair access, elevators, and gender-neutral restrooms.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office fosters a collaborative work environment, with open-plan workspaces and dedicated team areas for meetings and brainstorming sessions.
• Development Tools: Bowhead provides access to the latest development tools, including cloud-based IDEs, version control systems, and automated deployment tools.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: As a systems administrator, you will work closely with development, security, and project management teams to ensure the successful migration and management of legacy DoD applications.

Work Schedule: This role requires a standard 40-hour workweek, with the possibility of on-call rotations for mission-critical systems. Some flexibility may be available for deployment windows and maintenance tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead's collaborative work environment and focus on innovation make it an ideal place for experienced systems administrators looking to grow their careers and make a real impact on mission-critical cloud infrastructure projects.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

1. Technical Phone Screen: A brief phone call to assess your technical background and experience with cloud infrastructure management, security, and compliance.
2. On-Site Technical Interview: A half-day on-site interview consisting of:
   • A technical deep dive into your cloud infrastructure management and security experience, focusing on DoD environments.
   • A hands-on exercise demonstrating your ability to manage and optimize cloud resources, ensure security and compliance, and troubleshoot complex issues.
   • A discussion of your portfolio and relevant projects, focusing on your technical leadership and problem-solving skills.
   • A review of your resume and career goals, followed by a behavioral interview to assess your cultural fit and leadership potential.
3. Final Review: A final review of your application materials and interview performance by the hiring manager and senior leadership.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight your experience with cloud infrastructure management, security, and compliance in DoD environments.
• Include examples of your scripting and automation skills, as well as your experience with configuration management tools.
• Showcase your ability to manage and optimize cloud resources, ensuring high availability and performance.
• Demonstrate your technical leadership and problem-solving skills through your portfolio projects.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

• Brush up on your cloud infrastructure management and security skills, with a focus on DoD environments.
• Familiarize yourself with the latest cloud infrastructure best practices and trends.
• Prepare for hands-on exercises that test your ability to manage and optimize cloud resources, ensure security and compliance, and troubleshoot complex issues.

ATS Keywords: [See the comprehensive list of relevant keywords for resume optimization below]

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead's interview process is designed to assess your technical expertise and leadership potential in cloud infrastructure management and security. By preparing thoroughly and showcasing your relevant experience and skills, you will increase your chances of success in the interview process.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Cloud Infrastructure:

• Amazon Web Services (AWS)
• Microsoft Azure
• Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

Infrastructure as Code (IaC):

• Terraform
• Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates

Monitoring Tools:

• Amazon CloudWatch
• Splunk
• Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana (ELK stack)
• Nagios

Containerization:

• Docker
• Kubernetes
• OpenShift

Scripting & Automation:

• PowerShell
• Python
• Bash
• Ansible

Configuration Management:

• Ansible
• Puppet
• Chef

Version Control:

• Git
• GitHub
• Bitbucket

CI/CD Pipelines:

• Jenkins
• CircleCI
• GitLab CI/CD

Server Platforms:

• Linux/Unix (CentOS, Ubuntu, Red Hat Enterprise Linux)
• Windows Server

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead's technology stack is designed to support the management and optimization of secure cloud infrastructure for mission-critical systems. As a systems administrator, you will be expected to have expertise in the tools and technologies listed above, as well as the ability to adapt to new tools and trends as they emerge.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values:

• Innovation: Bowhead values innovation and encourages its team members to explore new technologies and approaches to cloud infrastructure management and security.
• Collaboration: Bowhead fosters a collaborative work environment, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional teamwork and knowledge sharing.
• Customer Focus: Bowhead is committed to delivering high-quality, mission-critical systems and services that meet the unique needs of its government customers.
• Quality: Bowhead is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of quality in its cloud infrastructure management and security practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Bowhead's team members work closely with development, security, and project management teams to ensure the successful migration and management of legacy DoD applications.
• Code Review Culture: Bowhead encourages a culture of code review and peer programming to ensure the highest standards of quality and security in its cloud infrastructure management practices.
• Knowledge Sharing: Bowhead fosters a culture of knowledge sharing, with regular team meetings, training sessions, and technical workshops to help team members stay up-to-date with the latest cloud infrastructure management and security best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead's team culture is designed to support the successful management and optimization of secure cloud infrastructure for mission-critical systems. As a systems administrator, you will be expected to contribute to the team's collaborative, innovative, and customer-focused culture, while maintaining the highest standards of quality in your work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

• Cloud Migration: Lead the migration of legacy DoD applications to secure cloud environments, ensuring high availability, performance, and compliance with DoD cybersecurity frameworks.
• Security & Compliance: Ensure the security and compliance of Bowhead's cloud infrastructure, with a focus on DoD environments and the latest security best practices.
• Cost Optimization: Manage cloud cost optimization and resource allocation to maximize operational efficiency, while ensuring the highest standards of security and performance.
• Performance Tuning: Conduct performance tuning and capacity planning for cloud resources, ensuring optimal utilization and minimal downtime.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Development: Expand your expertise in cloud infrastructure management, security, and compliance by working on complex projects and collaborating with experienced team members.
• Leadership Development: Develop your leadership skills by mentoring junior team members, leading cloud migration initiatives, and contributing to the development of cloud governance policies and procedures.
• Architecture Decisions: Contribute to strategic architecture decisions by providing technical guidance and expertise in cloud infrastructure management and security.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead offers significant technical challenges and growth opportunities for experienced systems administrators looking to expand their expertise in cloud infrastructure management, security, and compliance. By embracing these challenges and seeking out learning and development opportunities, you can grow both personally and professionally in this role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

• Cloud Infrastructure Management: Describe your experience managing cloud infrastructure in DoD environments, with a focus on security, compliance, and optimization.
• Security & Compliance: Explain your approach to ensuring the security and compliance of cloud infrastructure, with a focus on DoD cybersecurity frameworks and best practices.
• Troubleshooting: Walk through a complex cloud infrastructure issue you've encountered and how you approached diagnosing and resolving the problem.
• Cost Optimization: Discuss your strategies for managing cloud cost optimization and resource allocation, with a focus on maximizing operational efficiency.
• Performance Tuning: Describe your approach to performance tuning and capacity planning for cloud resources, with examples of your experience and the results you've achieved.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Culture: Explain what you value in a company culture and how you think Bowhead's culture aligns with your preferences.
• Collaboration: Describe your experience working in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment and how you've contributed to the success of your previous teams.
• Customer Focus: Explain how you've ensured customer satisfaction in your previous roles and how you would approach delivering high-quality, mission-critical systems and services at Bowhead.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Cloud Infrastructure Projects: Highlight your experience managing and optimizing cloud infrastructure projects, with a focus on security, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
• Security & Compliance Projects: Showcase your ability to ensure the security and compliance of cloud infrastructure, with a focus on DoD cybersecurity frameworks and best practices.
• Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving Projects: Demonstrate your ability to diagnose and resolve complex cloud infrastructure issues, with a focus on innovative solutions and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead's interview process is designed to assess your technical expertise and leadership potential in cloud infrastructure management and security. By preparing thoroughly and showcasing your relevant experience and skills, you will increase your chances of success in the interview process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Systems Administrator position at Bowhead:

1. Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience and skills in cloud infrastructure management, security, and compliance, with a focus on DoD environments.
2. Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your portfolio to showcase your experience managing and optimizing cloud infrastructure projects, with a focus on security, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
3. Research Bowhead: Familiarize yourself with Bowhead's company culture, values, and mission-critical systems and services, with a focus on how your technical expertise and leadership potential can contribute to the company's success.
4. Prepare for the Interview: Brush up on your cloud infrastructure management and security skills, with a focus on DoD environments, and prepare for the interview process by reviewing the technical and behavioral interview tips provided above.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web development/server administration industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

🛠 ATS Keywords

Programming Languages:

• Python
• PowerShell
• Bash
• Ansible

Web Frameworks:

• Terraform
• Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates

Server Technologies:

• Amazon Web Services (AWS)
• Microsoft Azure
• Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
• Linux/Unix (CentOS, Ubuntu, Red Hat Enterprise Linux)
• Windows Server

Databases:

• Amazon RDS
• Azure SQL Database
• Google Cloud SQL

Tools:

• Amazon CloudWatch
• Splunk
• Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana (ELK stack)
• Nagios
• Git
• GitHub
• Bitbucket
• Jenkins
• CircleCI
• GitLab CI/CD

Methodologies:

• Agile/Scrum
• Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
• Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)
• DevSecOps

Soft Skills:

• Leadership
• Problem-solving
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Customer focus

Industry Terms:

• Cloud infrastructure management
• Cloud security
• DoD cybersecurity frameworks (RMF, NIST, STIG, DoD 8140)
• Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
• Containerization (Docker, Kubernetes, OpenShift)
• Monitoring and logging tools (CloudWatch, Splunk, ELK stack, Nagios)
• Scripting and automation (PowerShell, Python, Bash, Ansible)
• Configuration management (Ansible, Puppet, Chef)
• Version control (Git, GitHub, Bitbucket)
• CI/CD pipelines (Jenkins, CircleCI, GitLab CI/CD)
• Server platforms (Linux/Unix, Windows Server)
• Cloud cost optimization and resource allocation
• Performance tuning and capacity planning
• Security assessments, vulnerability remediation, and accreditation processes
• Cloud migration initiatives
• Cloud governance policies and procedures
• Access controls and zero-trust architecture principles

By strategically incorporating these ATS keywords into your resume and application materials, you will increase your visibility to potential employers and improve your chances of success in the job search process.