Entry-Level Sys Admin - Test & Simulation Support

Cortina Solutions is seeking an entry-level System Administrator (Data & Test/Simulation Support) to support the execution of a complex contract supporting the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD). You must be ready to support the mission, managing lab operations, configuring systems for simulation events, and providing real-time technical support that shapes the future of naval warfare technology. The ideal candidate will be expected to work with Excellence, serve with Integrity, and approach every problem with a drive to Get Things Done.

The entry-level System Administrator provides foundational data management, IT, and system administration support for Department of the Navy lab systems, ensuring operational readiness, data integrity, and compliance. This role integrates with Modeling & Simulation (M&S) and Test & Evaluation T&E engineering teams to provide immediate, hands-on assistance during active test events. This requires flexibility to work non-standard hours at times to support ongoing, continuous simulation or test operations.

Responsibilities include providing IT support in compliance with SECNAV M-5239.2 for CSWF roles; maintaining required certifications and training for operating systems within the scope of duties; managing file and data storage for tests; executing system patching; and assisting with data security controls. The position utilizes DOD-approved tools and standard administrative practices to assess, remediate, and maintain system readiness.

At Cortina, we believe in training and developing our workforce, not just providing a job. The selected candidate will be paired with a senior team lead for structured mentoring, hands-on training, and professional development in support of your career and our nation’s critical defense workforce.

• 0-3 years of relevant civilian or military system administration experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or other relevant field of study (or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience).
• CompTIA Security+ certification (or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire).
• Hands-on familiarity with Windows and/or Linux operating systems, user account management, and basic file storage configuration.
• Ability to work flexible or non-standard hours (evenings/weekends) as needed to support real-time test and simulation schedules.
• Active DOD Secret clearance or ability to obtain one.

Preferred Requirements

• Experience working within Navy/DoD simulation, experimentation, or test range lab environments.
• Familiarity with basic scripting (e.g., PowerShell, Bash, Python) to assist with automated data management or system configuration.
• Experience applying DISA STIGs or basic OS patching methodologies in a closed network environment.

Pulled from the full job description

• Parental leave
• Health insurance
• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Health savings account
• Dental insurance, Cortina Solutions is committed to offering comprehensive and affordable benefits to employees and their families.
• BCBS Medical and Dental Insurance
• VSP Vision
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Dependent Care Reimbursement
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Company-paid Short and Long Term Disability Insurance
• Voluntary Term Life Insurance
• Matching 401(k) Plan
• Flexible PTO
• Maternity and Paternity Leave
• Federal Holidays
• Company Match on Employee Non-Profit Donation
• Professional Development

Background Check Requirement

As our team members work on government sites, all potential candidates are subject to a background screening that fully complies with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Position dependent on contract award.

Be a part of a winning team that provides technical solutions with integrity. Cortina is a government contractor providing technical professional services. But we are so much more than that! For approximately every three employees brought on to support the government, we hire an individual from an under-resourced, developing community and train them to enter the professional job market.

Cortina is very proud of the reach-back it offers to the local community. Not only that, we LOVE our employees and do all we can to ensure they have a great work experience. Come join a company that believes in being a part of something bigger than themselves!