Systems Administrator - Network Security

We are seeking a highly skilled System Administrator with hands-on experience in engineering and managing complex networks , configuring firewalls , implementing cybersecurity mitigation strategies , and maintaining both hardware and software infrastructure . The ideal candidate will have a strong technical foundation and a proactive mindset to support and secure mission-critical systems in a dynamic IT environment. This candidate should also be comfortable in unknown situations that may require out of the box thinking., * Design, configure, and maintain complex network infrastructures , including LAN, WAN, and cloud-based networks.

• Configure and manage firewalls (e.g., Palo Alto, Cisco) and enforce network security policies.
• Perform cybersecurity mitigation tasks , including patch management, vulnerability scanning, log analysis, and incident response.
• Install, configure, and maintain hardware (servers, routers, switches, firewalls, etc.).
• Perform OS and application software updates , system tuning, and performance optimization.
• Monitor system and network performance and troubleshoot issues to ensure high availability and reliability.
• Document system configurations, procedures, and changes in accordance with IT policies.
• Collaborate with security, engineering, and operations teams to implement IT infrastructure projects.
• Ensure compliance with internal security policies and industry best practices.
• Work with a team to design and assembly systems.
• Understand current hardware offerings from major vendors.
• Configure and Install new hardware systems.

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field; equivalent work experience may be considered.
• 3+ years of experience in system/network administration, depending on educational background.

Technical Skills:

• Strong experience with network design and configuration (TCP/IP, VLANs, VPNs, DNS, DHCP).
• Proficiency with firewall administration and network access controls .
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles , common threats, and mitigation strategies.
• Experience with Windows and/or Linux server environments .
• Familiarity with virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V).
• Experience with monitoring and logging tools .
• Scripting skills (e.g., PowerShell, Bash) are a plus.

Certifications (preferred but not required):

• CompTIA Security+, Network+, CySA+ Cisco CCNA/CCNP
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate or similar
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Soft Skills:

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Effective communication and documentation abilities
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Detail-oriented and security-focused mindset, This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract, U.S. Citizenship is required. Secret or Top Secret clearance, or the ability obtain a clearance is desired.

We don't just build defense technology-we redefine what's possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we're not building history, we're building what's next. If you're ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there's no better place to do it than AV., We don't just build defense technology-we redefine what's possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we're not building history, we're building what's next. If you're ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there's no better place to do it than AV. Careers at AeroVironment (https://www.avinc.com/careers/our-team)