Senior IT System Administrator

Senior IT System Administrator

Vast is seeking a Senior IT System Administrator to support the development of systems required for the design and build of human‑rated space stations. The role reports to the System Administrator Manager and is a full‑time exempt position located in Long Beach.

As a Senior IT System Administrator, you will be responsible for the management, support, and enhancement of the IT infrastructure, IT service delivery, and end‑user IT experience. You will install and maintain user endpoint devices and support infrastructure managed by other IT teams while training users on complex systems and computer functions.

• Design, architect, and implement enterprise‑scale Windows Server infrastructure (2016/2019/2022) supporting 500+ endpoints and mission‑critical operations.
• Lead the architecture and optimization of Active Directory Domain Services, including multi‑forest/multi‑domain design, trust relationships, site topology, and replication strategies.
• Design and implement Group Policy architecture at scale, including inheritance models, WMI filtering, security filtering, and loopback processing.

• Architect and maintain complex Active Directory environments, including forest/domain design, schema modifications, FSMO role management, and disaster recovery strategies.
• Design and enforce role‑based access control (RBAC), privileged access management (PAM), and least‑privilege security models.
• Optimize Active Directory performance including replication monitoring, database maintenance, and tombstone management.

• Architect and manage enterprise endpoint solutions using Group Policy, Configuration Manager (SCCM), and endpoint management platforms.
• Develop comprehensive endpoint security baselines aligned with CIS benchmarks, NIST 800‑53, and CMMC requirements.
• Provide architectural guidance for cross‑platform management (macOS via JAMF, Linux) in heterogeneous environments.

• Design and implement enterprise patch management architecture for servers and endpoints.
• Manage patch ring strategies, pilot groups, and phased deployment models to minimize operational risk.
• Coordinate patching schedules across production, staging, and development environments.

• 4+ years of experience in IT system administration in an enterprise environment.
• 4+ years of experience with endpoint management tools such as JAMF, Intune, GPO.
• Demonstrable experience in patch management across diverse environments.
• Solid understanding of server operating systems (Windows Server, Linux) and virtualization platforms such as VMware and Hyper‑V.
• Experience with scripting languages like Power Shell, Python, or Bash for task automation and installation.
• Working knowledge of networking fundamentals (subnets, VLANs, routing).

• Proficiency in administering and managing endpoint and server automation systems.
• Hands‑on experience with enterprise‑grade patch management tools such as WSUS, Ivanti, or Automox.
• Strong understanding of SaaS solutions and their integration into existing IT infrastructure.
• Experience working within regulatory frameworks (ITAR, NIST, FedRAMP) and maintaining compliance.
• Proven ability to independently manage complex IT projects with cross‑functional impact.

• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted.

Pay range (California): $107,010 – $151,900 USD.

• 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents.
• Paid time off, including up to 20+ days vacation for…