IT Systems Administrator

At Arete, we are on the forefront of utilizing innovative solutions, with great minds from all backgrounds, to help solve the nation's most complex security challenges. We strive for an inclusive, collaborative team environment that approaches differences as opportunities for innovation and excellence. As an employee-owned company, we foster an atmosphere that propels diverse career opportunities and professional growth.

Discover your future with us.

We are seeking a mid-level IT Systems Administrator to support multiple Department of Defense (DoD) programs focused on the design, installation, and configuration of cyber-compliant prototype and low-volume production systems. This role is central to building, hardening, and preparing local and fielded systems in direct support of the Warfighter. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise in Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), a solid understanding of DoD cybersecurity requirements, and the ability to integrate systems of varying complexity. This is a hands-on, on-site position with opportunities to engage in exciting programs, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and directly impact mission success. This position will be based at our Niwot, CO office and is classified as a full-time, exempt, non-supervisory position.

Key Responsibilities

• Build, configure, and validate local, fielded, prototype, and low-volume production systems for multiple DoD contracts.
• Install, secure, and maintain Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems across lab, deployment, and operational environments.
• Implement cyber-compliant configurations including:
  • DISA STIGs
  • RMF control implementation and documentation
  • SCAP and ACAS vulnerability scanning and remediation
• Support the design, installation, and configuration of complex systems and networks supporting customer programs.
• Collaborate closely with IT staff, systems engineers, and Cyber Security personnel to ensure system integrity and compliance.
• Prepare systems and documentation for fielding, deployment, and customer acceptance.
• Conduct system troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and performance optimization.
• Travel occasionally to field sites, integration events, or customer facilities.
• Provide occasional after-hours support during critical builds, updates, or deployment schedules.
• Maintain clear and thorough documentation of system builds, configurations, compliance artifacts, and installation procedures.

We have an impressive range of benefits, programs, and perks that we offer:

Health & Wellness:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Life and Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• Vision Reimbursement
• Fitness Reimbursement

Financial:

• Company-funded 5% contribution to your 401(k) retirement plan
• Company-funded 5% contribution to your Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• Continuing Education Assistance

Work-Life Balance:

• Flexible Scheduling
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Parental and Bereavement Leave

What We Value:

• Creativity and innovation in solving challenges
• Integrity and responsibility in all actions
• Collaboration across teams and specialties
• Responsiveness in fast-paced environments
• Passion for national security and excellence

Experiences and Background We Look For (Required Skills):

• 3-5 years of hands-on experience as a Linux System Administrator supporting production, lab, or deployed systems.
• Strong proficiency with Red Hat Enterprise Linux, including CLI administration and system configuration.
• Experience implementing DoD cybersecurity compliance, including STIGs, RMF, ACAS, and SCAP.
• Demonstrated ability to support systems of varying complexity, from prototypes to operational deployments.
• Experience supporting system builds for fielded or mission-critical environments.
• Familiarity with networking fundamentals (routing, DNS, firewalls, SSH, VLANs).
• Experience with scripting and automation (Bash, Python, or similar).
• Ability to collaborate effectively with IT, Cyber Security, engineering, and program teams.
• Willingness and ability to travel occasionally.
• Willingness to support after-hours tasks when needed.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to DoD contract requirements.
• Must be able to lift 25 pounds.

Nice to Have (Preferred Skills):

• DoD 8570/8140 certification (Security+ CE or higher).
• Red Hat certifications (RHCSA, RHCE).
• Experience with virtualization technologies (VMware, KVM).
• Familiarity with secure system design and network architecture.
• Experience supporting fielded military systems or other Warfighter-focused programs.
• Knowledge of storage technologies (NFS, iSCSI, SAN).

The salary range for this role is $90,000 to $120,000; however, Arete considers several factors when extending an offer of employment, including but not limited to: the position and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

Other Considerations

Arete is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and nondiscrimination, and we believe every person has the right to be treated with fairness, dignity, and equal consideration.

Arete is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

U.S. citizenship is required to meet position eligibility.

Successful passage of a criminal background screen is required to meet position eligibility.

Selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Arete will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring.

Successful passage of a Department of Transportation (DOT) drug test is required to meet position eligibility.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website because of your