Systems Administrator II

SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For almost 80 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.

SRI is seeking an experienced Systems Administrator to support secure research programs at our Ann Arbor, Michigan facility. This position focuses primarily on Linux systems administration, with additional responsibilities supporting Windows environments, security compliance, and specialized scientific computing infrastructure. The successful candidate will work independently and collaboratively with researchers, engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and IT teams.

The position will work onsite at our Ann Arbor office.

• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Linux servers, workstations, and specialized scientific computing environments.
• Administer Windows servers and workstations, including Active Directory, Group Policy, and related Microsoft infrastructure.
• Implement and maintain system security controls, including DISA STIGs, patch management, vulnerability remediation, and access management.
• Provide hands-on technical support for researchers and engineers working in secure and classified computing environments.
• Administer and maintain backup and recovery solutions, including rsync-based processes and commercial backup platforms.
• Monitor system performance, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and maintain operational reliability.
• Develop scripts and automation using Bash, Python, PowerShell, or similar tools.
• Support security assessments, compliance activities, and technical documentation in coordination with cybersecurity personnel.
• Support the deployment and maintenance of specialized research applications and computing tools.

• Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline or equivalent professional experience.
• 5+ years of systems administration experience

• US Citizen with a current active Top Secret security clearance and eligibility for Special Access Program (SAP) access.

• CompTIA Security+ certification or qualifying higher-level certification (such as CISSP), or ability to obtain an approved certification within 6 months of hire.
• Strong Linux administration experience, including system configuration, troubleshooting, security, and command-line tools.
• Working knowledge of Windows Server administration, Active Directory, and Microsoft infrastructure.
• Familiarity with DISA STIGs, system hardening, and government security compliance requirements.
• Experience with scripting, automation, system backups, and recovery procedures.
• Strong troubleshooting, communication, documentation, and independent problem-solving skills

Desired skills:

• Experience supporting classified government programs, defense research, or restricted computing environments.
• Experience administering Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Ubuntu, or comparable Linux distributions.
• Experience with Microsoft Exchange administration and troubleshooting.
• Experience with rsync, Veritas Backup Exec, or comparable backup and recovery solutions.
• Familiarity with Podman, containerized applications, and container management.
• Knowledge of NISPOM, Risk Management Framework (RMF), and NIST security requirements.
• Experience supporting scientific computing, research applications, or specialized engineering environments.
• Demonstrated ability to independently administer and troubleshoot complex Linux computing environments.
• Experience leading technical initiatives and improving infrastructure security, reliability, and operational efficiency.
• Ability to evaluate technical alternatives, recommend solutions, and mentor less experienced administrators.

The salary range is: $102,400-$135,680. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/. SRI will accept applications until the position is filled.