Service Desk Systems Administrator / Space Programs

Peraton is seeking a Service DeskSystems Administrator to support NASA’s Space Exploration Network Services and Evolution (SENSE) contract. This position is located at the NASA White Sands Complex (WSC) in Las Cruces, NM.

Peraton is the prime contractor for NASA at the White Sands Complex (WSC) near Las Cruces, New Mexico. Operating here are two functionally identical satellite ground terminals: The White Sands Ground Terminal, and the Second TDRSS Ground Terminal. These ground terminals ensure uninterrupted communications between various ground stations, NASA’s orbiting fleet of Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS), customer spacecraft (satellites), and the computer systems that support such spacecraft. WSC serves as an interface for distributing satellite data to control centers and scientists who then use the daily influx of data to expand our ever-growing knowledge of the Earth and the universe.

This position will be responsible for

• System Maintenance & Support: Assist in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS). Perform routine system updates, patches, and software installations. Troubleshoot hardware, software, and network-related issues.

• User Account Management: Create, modify, and manage user accounts, permissions, and access levels. Assist with password resets and account lockouts.

• Network & Security Support: Monitor system performance and network connectivity. Support basic network troubleshooting (DNS, DHCP, VPN, firewall rules). Ensure security compliance by following company policies and procedures.

• Backup & Recovery: Assist in data backup and recovery processes. Monitor system logs for issues and report incidents as needed.

• Documentation & Process Improvement: Maintain accurate documentation for system configurations and procedures. Help improve IT processes and contribute to knowledge base updates.

• Technical Support: Provide first-level support for internal employees regarding IT-related issues. Work closely with senior IT staff to resolve complex problems.

• Learning & Development: Stay up to date with emerging technologies and industry best practices. Participate in training sessions and gain relevant IT certifications.

• Education/Experience - degree required in engineering, computer science, information technology or other related technical discipline and directly related experience Information Security and/or IT infrastructure as follows: BS/BA degree and 0 years’ experience, or AS/AA and 2 years’ experience.

• Basic knowledge of Windows, Linux, or macOS operating systems.
• Familiarity with Active Directory, user account management, and permissions.

• Basic knowledge of virtual machines and management of hypervisors: ESXi and/or Hyper-V.

• Experience with hardware setup, troubleshooting, and basic IT support.
• Basic knowledge of working with cyber (IT) security concepts.
• Some experience with scripting (PowerShell, Bash, or Python) is a plus.
• Security clearance - this position requires the candidate to be able to obtain a DoD Secret security clearance and to maintain the clearance thereafter.
• You must be a US Citizen and show proof of citizenship.
• Must be able to maintain ability to access government worksite.

Desired Experience

• Active SECRET security clearance.
• Prior NASA experience is strongly preferred.
• Experience managing smartcard login on Windows or Linux systems.
• understanding of SSL/TLS certification management and implementation.
• Experience with automation tools such as Ansible, PDQ, or BigFix.
• Familiarity with Tenable Nessus tools
• Experience implementing or maintaining local WSUS and/or Linux Repositories servers.
• Any relevant IT certifications (CompTIA A+, Network+, Microsoft Certifications) are a plus but not required.

$51,000 - $82,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. EEO

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world’s leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can’t be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we’re keeping people around the world safe and secure.