> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/4195375-principal-sr-principal-system-administrator-space-satellite](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/4195375-principal-sr-principal-system-administrator-space-satellite). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Principal / Sr. Principal System Administrator - Space/Satellite

- **Company:** Northrop Grumman
- **Location:** Dulles, VA, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $103,600.0 - $155,400.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Microsoft Windows, Active Directory, Confluence, JIRA, Configuration Management, Desktop Computing, Linux, Desktop Virtualization, DevOps, Domain Name System (DNS), File System Permissions, Lightweight Directory Access Protocols (LDAP), OpenStack, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Ansible, Software Engineering, Virtual Environment, Information Technology, Bitbucket, Terraform
- **Published:** October 13, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9244085/principal-sr-principal-system-administrator-spacesatellite

## About the Role

* Must have U.S. Citizenship with a current or active Top Secret level clearance and the ability to obtain SCI level access at the time of application.
 * Experience in Linux (RHEL 7/8) Server and Workstation Administration and OpenStack Administration and/or experience in Windows (10 and Server) Server and Workstation Administration
 * Ability to follow a checklist or an established troubleshooting routine for connection or software issues
 * Ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships to work effectively with others in a team setting through shared responsibility, empathy, and respect
 * Current Security+ or IAT Level 2 certification

Principal Systems Administrator (level 3)

 * Bachelor's degree with 5 years of experience; OR Master's degree with 3 years of experience. Experience may be considered in lieu of a degree

Sr. Principal Systems Administrator (level 4)

 * Bachelor's degree with 8 years of experience; OR Master's degree with 6 years of experience. Experience may be considered in lieu of a degree, * Red Hat Certified Systems Administrator (RHCSA) certification
 * Experience with DNS, Active Directory, GPOs, and LDAP configuration
 * Experience with DevOps systems and methods
 * Familiar with the concepts of server and desktop virtualization, PCOIP, or experience with low level administration of an environment

## Description

In this role you will:

 * Aid fellow team members and end users in troubleshooting and problem resolution in support of real-time operations.
 * Communicate effectively verbally and in writing to include, but not limited to, creation of process documentation and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
 * Install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain Windows and Linux VMs via OpenStack.
 * Provide accurate logs so that the development and sustainment teams can make improvements in product stability and functionality.
 * Implement system enhancements that will improve the performance and reliability of the system including installing, upgrading/patching, monitoring, problem resolution, and configuration management.
 * Maintain smooth operation of multi-user computer systems, including coordination with team members, system engineers, operators, project managers, end users, and customers.
 * Install, configure, and perform maintenance of virtual environments to include virtualized servers and VDI Desktops utilizing PCoIP.
 * Create and maintain user and computer accounts and modify file permissions and security access lists via Active Directory and Linux.
 * Oversee daily maintenance and provide Tier 1 troubleshooting and support in OpenStack environment.
 * Support integration of DevOps software such as Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket, Ansible, and Terraform.