Systems Administrator at KACE Company

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Systems Administrator
Company: KACE Company
Location: Tysons Corner, VA
Job Type: On-site, Full-Time
Category: Server Administration
Date Posted: March 28, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: On-site only

🚀 Role Summary

Maintain and support Windows servers, workstations, and domain controllers in a secure and highly available environment.
Manage and monitor system backups, apply security patches, and configure Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) and Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) instances.
Troubleshoot and resolve routine and complex systems software problems, and assist in capacity planning and monitoring.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure optimal system performance and user experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in Windows server administration, Active Directory management, and cloud services. Familiarity with security best practices and a commitment to maintaining a secure environment are essential.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

System Administration: Maintain and support Windows servers, workstations, and domain controllers, ensuring high availability and performance.
Backup Management: Manage and monitor system backups, ensuring data integrity and recovery capabilities.
Patch Management: Regularly apply security patches and updates to maintain system security and compliance.
Cloud Services: Create and configure VPCs, EC2 instances, public and private subnets, and security groups.
Troubleshooting: Research and resolve routine and complex systems software problems, collaborating with other technical teams as needed.
Capacity Planning: Assist in server and storage capacity planning and monitoring to ensure optimal resource utilization.
User Management: Create and manage users and groups using Windows Active Directory.
Installation Support: Assist in the installation of servers and other IT hardware and software assets as requested.
Documentation: Maintain and update documentation on the IT systems configuration for all assigned projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment. Experience with scripting and automation tools would be beneficial.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Relevant military training may be considered.

Experience: 2-5 years of experience in Windows server administration, Active Directory management, and cloud services. Experience in a secure environment is preferred.

Required Skills:

Proficient in Windows Server 2016/2019 administration
Experience with Active Directory and Group Policy Management
Strong understanding of network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP)
Familiarity with cloud services (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud)
Experience with backup and disaster recovery solutions
Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to work independently
Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Skills:

Experience with PowerShell scripting
Familiarity with virtualization technologies (VMware, Hyper-V)
Knowledge of ITIL or other service management frameworks
Experience with monitoring and alerting tools (Nagios, Zabbix, Prometheus)
Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) systems

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates with certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate or AWS Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate would be highly desirable.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate experience with Windows server administration, Active Directory management, and cloud services through live projects or case studies.
Showcase problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex issues with examples from previous roles.
Highlight experience with backup and disaster recovery solutions, and any relevant certifications.

Technical Documentation:

Provide documentation on IT systems configuration, including network diagrams, server configurations, and backup procedures.
Include any relevant scripts or automation tools used in previous roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio will demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage and maintain complex IT environments, as well as their commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,000 - $110,000 per year (Based on industry standards for mid-level server administrators in the Northern Virginia area)

Benefits:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan with company match
Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
Tuition reimbursement for job-related courses
Employee assistance program
Life and disability insurance

Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (with some flexibility for on-call rotations)

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on market research and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and skills. The benefits package is competitive and designed to support the well-being and professional growth of employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Information Technology and Services

Company Size: Medium (500 - 1,000 employees)

Founded: 2005 (with a strong history in government contracting and IT services)

Team Structure:

IT Infrastructure team, consisting of systems administrators, network administrators, and database administrators.
Collaborative environment with cross-functional teams, including software development, project management, and cybersecurity.
Flat organizational structure with a focus on agile decision-making and continuous improvement.

Development Methodology:

Agile/Scrum methodologies for software development and project management.
ITIL-based service management framework for IT infrastructure and operations.
Regular code reviews, testing, and quality assurance practices.
CI/CD pipelines and automated deployment strategies.

Company Website: https://www.kacecompany.com

📝 Enhancement Note: KACE Company values a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. Employees are encouraged to take ownership of their work and contribute to the company's success through their expertise and initiative.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Systems Administrator Career Level: Mid-level, responsible for maintaining and supporting Windows servers, workstations, and domain controllers in a secure and highly available environment. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the IT Infrastructure Manager, with a dotted-line reporting relationship to the IT Director.

Technical Impact: This role has a direct impact on the performance, security, and availability of the company's IT infrastructure, which supports critical business operations and user experience.

Growth Opportunities:

Senior Systems Administrator: After 2-3 years of strong performance, candidates may advance to a senior role with increased responsibilities, including mentoring junior team members and leading technical projects.
IT Infrastructure Manager: With a proven track record of leadership and technical expertise, candidates may progress to a management role, overseeing the IT Infrastructure team and driving strategic initiatives.
IT Director: For candidates with exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the company's IT strategy, a director-level role may be an option, responsible for setting the vision and direction for the IT department.

📝 Enhancement Note: KACE Company offers a clear career progression path for talented and motivated individuals, with opportunities for growth and development in both technical and leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, open-concept office space with collaborative work areas and dedicated quiet spaces for focused work.

Office Location(s): Tysons Corner, VA (with remote work options for some positions)

Workspace Context:

Collaboration: Encourages cross-functional collaboration with design, marketing, and business teams to ensure optimal system performance and user experience.
Equipment: Provides multiple monitors, testing devices, and other tools necessary for effective server administration and troubleshooting.
Flexibility: Offers flexible work arrangements, including part-time and remote work options for some positions.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (with some flexibility for on-call rotations and project deadlines)

📝 Enhancement Note: KACE Company fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a strong commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone Screen: A brief phone or video call to assess communication skills and technical fit for the role.
Technical Assessment: A hands-on assessment of the candidate's Windows server administration, Active Directory management, and cloud services skills.
Behavioral Interview: A structured interview focusing on the candidate's problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Final Interview: A meeting with the IT Infrastructure Manager to discuss the candidate's career goals, cultural fit, and final questions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight experience with Windows server administration, Active Directory management, and cloud services through live projects or case studies.
Demonstrate problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex issues with examples from previous roles.
Showcase experience with backup and disaster recovery solutions, and any relevant certifications.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on Windows Server 2016/2019 administration, Active Directory, and cloud services (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud).
Familiarize yourself with the company's IT infrastructure and any relevant security requirements.
Prepare for troubleshooting scenarios and be ready to discuss your approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

ATS Keywords:

Programming Languages: PowerShell, Bash, Python
Web Frameworks: N/A (Server Administration role)
Server Technologies: Windows Server 2016/2019, Active Directory, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud
Databases: Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL
Tools: VMware, Hyper-V, Nagios, Zabbix, Prometheus, Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM)
Methodologies: ITIL, Agile/Scrum, CI/CD
Soft Skills: Problem-solving, Troubleshooting, Communication, Collaboration, Attention to Detail
Industry Terms: Server Administration, Windows Server, Active Directory, Cloud Services, IT Infrastructure, IT Operations

📝 Enhancement Note: KACE Company uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to manage job applications and interviews. Including relevant keywords in your resume and application materials can help ensure that your qualifications are accurately matched to the role.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Server Technologies:

Windows Server 2016/2019
Active Directory
AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud

Database Technologies:

Microsoft SQL Server
MySQL
PostgreSQL

Infrastructure Tools:

VMware
Hyper-V
Nagios
Zabbix
Prometheus
Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM)

Monitoring Tools:

Nagios
Zabbix
Prometheus

📝 Enhancement Note: KACE Company uses a combination of on-premises and cloud-based infrastructure to support its IT services. Candidates should be comfortable working with both Windows Server and cloud-based environments.

👥 Team Culture & Values

IT Infrastructure Values:

Reliability: Maintain high system availability and performance to support critical business operations and user experience.
Security: Implement and maintain robust security controls to protect the company's IT infrastructure and data.
Collaboration: Work effectively with cross-functional teams to ensure optimal system performance and user experience.
Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and improve IT processes and workflows to drive operational excellence.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional Integration: Collaborate with design, marketing, and business teams to ensure optimal system performance and user experience.
Code Review Culture: Regularly review and provide feedback on technical decisions and implementations to maintain high-quality standards.
Knowledge Sharing: Encourage the sharing of knowledge and expertise among team members to drive continuous learning and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: KACE Company values a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. Employees are encouraged to take ownership of their work and contribute to the company's success through their expertise and initiative.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Windows Server Administration: Maintain and support Windows servers, workstations, and domain controllers in a secure and highly available environment.
Active Directory Management: Manage and maintain Active Directory and Group Policy Management to ensure optimal user experience and security.
Cloud Services: Create and configure VPCs, EC2 instances, public and private subnets, and security groups to support the company's IT infrastructure.
Troubleshooting: Research and resolve routine and complex systems software problems, collaborating with other technical teams as needed.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skills Development: Pursue relevant certifications and attend industry conferences to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices.
Leadership Development: Participate in mentoring programs and leadership development courses to prepare for management and director-level roles.
Architecture Decision-Making: Contribute to strategic IT architecture decisions and drive innovation in the company's IT infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: KACE Company offers a range of learning and development opportunities to support the growth and development of its employees. Candidates should be proactive in seeking out new challenges and taking advantage of these opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Windows Server Administration: Describe your experience with Windows Server 2016/2019 administration, Active Directory, and Group Policy Management.
Cloud Services: Explain your experience with cloud services (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud) and how you have used them to support IT infrastructure.
Troubleshooting: Walk through a complex troubleshooting scenario you have faced in a previous role and discuss your approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

Company & Culture Questions:

IT Infrastructure Culture: Describe your experience working in a collaborative IT infrastructure team and how you have contributed to a positive work environment.
ITIL or Other Service Management Frameworks: Explain your experience with ITIL or other service management frameworks and how you have used them to drive operational excellence.
User Experience Impact: Discuss your approach to ensuring optimal system performance and user experience, and provide an example of a project where you have made a significant impact.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Live Demonstration: Present a live demonstration of your Windows server administration, Active Directory management, and cloud services skills through a relevant project or case study.
Technical Walkthrough: Provide a detailed walkthrough of your technical approach to a complex troubleshooting scenario or architecture decision.
User Experience Showcase: Highlight your experience with backup and disaster recovery solutions, and any relevant certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: KACE Company values candidates who are proactive in preparing for technical interviews and can demonstrate their skills and expertise through live projects or case studies. Candidates should be ready to discuss their approach to problem-solving and decision-making in a structured and concise manner.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Systems Administrator position at KACE Company:

Submit your application through the KACE Careers portal.
Customize your resume to highlight your Windows server administration, Active Directory management, and cloud services experience.
Prepare a portfolio showcasing your experience with Windows server administration, Active Directory management, and cloud services through live projects or case studies.
Research KACE Company's IT infrastructure and security requirements to ensure a strong technical fit for the role.
Prepare for the phone screen, technical assessment, behavioral interview, and final interview by reviewing the interview process and technical challenge preparation tips.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with KACE Company before making application decisions.

Systems Administrator