Shipboard Network Engineer​/Systems Administrator; Remote - Public Trust

Shipboard Network Engineer/Systems Administrator (Remote - Public Trust)

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Shipboard Network Engineer / System Administrator SME to support the U.S. Department of Transportation. This role provides IT network engineering and system administration support for the Office of Maritime Security and the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) Program. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with maritime network architecture, cybersecurity hardening, virtualization, and enterprise systems administration.

Location: Fully Remote with 25% travel (Typically 2‑3 days per travel segment with a sea test event that may be up to 5 days)

• Provide network engineering and system administration support for MARAD programs, including NSMV network acceptance and testing.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for maritime network operations, security, hardware, software, and IT space configuration.
• Collaborate with MARAD’s Office of Ship Operations to ensure readiness for continuous operations supporting DoD, DHS, and other agencies.
• Support audits, assessments, exercises, and training for contracted ship managers and government operators.
• Assist in mitigation and remediation processes following approved corrective action plans.
• Provide network architecture and security expertise throughout the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
• Support acquisition and maintenance of Authority to Operate (ATO) for NSMV systems.
• Administer and maintain Windows Server and Linux systems across shipboard and shore environments.
• Manage Active Directory, including authentication services, DNS, DHCP, certificates, and GPOs.
• Perform server patching, configuration management, system monitoring, and troubleshooting.
• Manage VMware vSphere/ESXi hosts, vCenter, virtual networking, storage, and shipboard virtualization clusters.
• Apply DISA STIGs for cybersecurity hardening and compliance.
• Maintain system baselines, documentation, backup/recovery procedures, and configuration standards.

• Associate’s degree in computer science or related field required;
  Bachelor’s preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in maritime network engineering and system administration.
• Expertise in maritime network architecture, virtualization, server administration, and emergency response.
• Experience with Cisco networks, Windows Server, Linux, and Active Directory.
• Familiarity with U.S. Coast Guard and International Maritime Organization network requirements.
• Strong understanding of SDLC, cybersecurity compliance frameworks (RMF/NIST), and DISA STIGs.
• Ability to work with customers to assess needs, resolve issues, and deliver solutions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and collaboration tools.
• U.S. Citizenship required.

• Navy, Coast Guard, or maritime network background.
• VMware VCP and Microsoft Server/Active Directory certifications.
• Cisco CCNA or CCNP certification.

$130,000 - $150,000 (Based on years of relevant experience)

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401k paid time off, federal holidays, and sick leave.

Opens on 12/23/2025 and will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

Mid‑Senior level

Contract

Information Technology

IT Services and IT Consulting