Senior IT Systems Administrator

Scout Space is building a new way to see and operate in space: with a new paradigm of data empowering every satellite to make space safer. We are a rapidly-growing team; we are deploying real solutions to orbit over the next 2 years; and our work will transform the face of spaceflight. We are looking for people that bring excitement and energy to our organization, are curious and eager to learn, and want to help drive our programs forward.

Scout is seeking a skilled Senior IT Systems Administrator to lead the design, implementation, and management of our internal IT systems as we transition from third-party managed services to a scalable in-house capability. This role will be responsible for establishing core IT functions, supporting a growing workforce, and helping build the infrastructure that enables Scout’s next phase of growth.  

The ideal candidate is equally capable providing hands-on technical support, managing external technology partners, and driving strategic IT initiatives. This individual will also play a key role supporting our CMMC compliance efforts and helping stand up infrastructure for Scout’s expanding facilities and operations. This is a hybrid position. 

Responsibilities

• Establish and manage internal IT operations, including documentation, policies, procedures, and asset management processes
• Build and mature Scout's in-house IT support capability while maintaining strong working relationships with our Managed Service Provider (MSP), CMMC consultants, and other technology partners
• Provide first-line IT support for employees, troubleshooting hardware, software, and networking, and access issues  
• Design, implement, and maintain IT security controls aligned with NIST, CMMC, and other applicable cybersecurity frameworks 
• Administer and maintain company hardware, networks, and cloud infrastructure 
• Manage user accounts, permissions, and access controls across company systems  
• Evaluate, implement, and support new IT systems, tools, and technologies as the company grows
• Support the design and deployment of IT infrastructure for Scout's new facility
• Participate in CMMC preparation, assessment, and certification activities  
• Deliver occasional cyber security awareness and IT training to team members  
• Maintain IT inventory, lifecycle management, and configuration management processes 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field OR in lieu of a degree 4+ additional years of experience
• 5+ years of experience in IT administration, systems administration, or technical support  
• Experience building or significantly expanding internal IT capabilities within a growing organization
• Experience working with Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and third-party technology vendors
• Experience with CMMC and other similar compliance frameworks (NIST 800-171, ISO27001)  
• Strong knowledge of network infrastructure, security principles, and IT operations
• Experience administering both Windows and Linux environments
• Proficiency in managing AWS cloud services 
• Experience supporting Microsoft Azure/GCC High environment  
• Exceptional troubleshooting, communication, and problem solving skills 
• Eligible to hold a clearance 

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified CMMC Professional certification 
• Familiarity with government contracting IT requirements  
• ITIL certification or knowledge of ITIL frameworks  

Benefits

• Open Time Off
• Paid Parental Leave
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• 401k Matching
• Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dependent Care FSA
• Wellness Stipend
• Work From Home Stipend
• Life Insurance
• Long-term Disability plans
• Commuter Benefit
• Education Reimbursement

Don't fulfill all the qualifications listed above? If you still feel like you might be a good fit, please feel free to APPLY ANYWAY. We believe in a well-rounded team, and this sometimes means that someone with out-of-context knowledge can contribute just as well as someone with very explicit alignment with our capabilities needs stated.

Our positions are based in Reston, Virginia, with much of our team operating in a hybrid or remote fashion. Candidates for this position must be located in the Northern Virginia / Washington, DC area or be willing to relocate. 

This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant’s capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls.

Scout Space Inc. does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. To conform to US Government space technology export regulations, applicants must be a US citizen, lawful permanent resident of the US, a protected individual as defined by 8 USC 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorization from the US Department of State.

We’re Proud to Prioritize Mental Health. Scout Space has been recognized with the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America. This certification reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a supportive environment where mental well-being is valued, protected, and openly talked about. We know that when people feel seen and supported, great work happens, and that is the kind of culture we are building here at Scout Space.

Compensation is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Pay range: $120,000 - 200,000.