Systems Administrator
Date: Jan 15, 2026
Location: Lexington, MA, US
Company: MIT Lincoln Laboratory
The Advanced Electro-Optical Systems Group specializes in the rapid design and prototyping of innovative electro-optic systems that support the Department of Defense, NASA, and other U.S. government organizations. The group has deep expertise in satellite systems, electro-optical and infrared sensors, electronics, image processing, and low-SWaP (size, weight, and power) optical communications. By combining hardware and software development under one roof, the group rapidly architects, prototypes, and deploys end-to-end systems tailored to mission needs. We work closely with end users to transform enabling concepts into operational capabilities on accelerated timelines.
We are seeking self-motivated engineers and scientists with multidisciplinary skill sets and a passion for prototyping cutting-edge systems that address critical national challenges.
Job Description
Group 99 seeks an IT Systems Administrator to support Windows, Mac, and Linux environments across classified and unclassified networks. This role requires developing creative solutions to complex IT challenges while working independently and collaboratively. Key responsibilities include:
- Providing onsite support for Windows, Linux, and Mac systems across secure and open networks for over 50 end-users
- Maintaining compliance of IA and IT related security measures aligned with both government and lab policies
- Supporting procurement and upgrade of existing systems
- Assisting with maintenance of VM infrastructure
- Supporting programmatic Risk Management Framework configuration, test and documentation
- Part-time travel in support of the deployment, test, and operations of prototype systems
Requirements
- B.S. in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience) with 3+ years’ experience in systems administration or IT support
- Experience with Windows, macOS, and Linux in classified/unclassified settings
- Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, Active Directory, LDAP
- Hands-on experience with OS imaging, BitLocker, LUKS, and desktop applications
- Ability to diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and networking problems
- Strong troubleshooting, communication, and customer service skills
- Solid understanding of security and cyber-hardening practices
- Experience with security plans, procedures, compliance (e.g., DoD 8140) and familiarity working in secure rooms
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with virtualization (VMware, vCenter, Hyper-V)
- Familiarity with additional scripting or programming (e.g., Python, Perl, Bash)
- Experience with security plans, procedures, and compliance (e.g., DoD 8140)
- CISCO CCST certification
- Security+ certification
Hiring Range: $78,300-$102,000
Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including—but not limited to—the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate’s experience, skills and education/training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements. This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits.
At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
- MIT-funded pension
- Matching 401K
- Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
- Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
- Mentorship programs
- A range of work-life balance options
- ... and much more!
Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks.
Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.
MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.
Requisition ID: 42579
Nearest Major Market: Boston
Job Segment:
Defense, DoD, Linux, Security Clearance, Testing, Government, Technology
