Senior IT Systems Administrator - Lead 
Position Summary 

The Senior IT Systems Administrator – Lead is responsible for overseeing the company’s information technology infrastructure, cybersecurity posture, and system performance across all business operations. This position exercises independent judgment in developing and implementing IT standards, ensuring data security compliance, managing enterprise systems, and leading the IT team in day-to-day operations. The role requires advanced technical knowledge, leadership, and the ability to make strategic decisions that impact organizational efficiency, cybersecurity readiness, and technology optimization. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Lead and manage the daily operations of the IT department, including prioritizing and assigning work to IT staff. 

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee all IT infrastructure activities, including network administration, system performance, software deployment, and data security. 

• Administer and maintain enterprise systems, servers, and virtualization environments to ensure optimal uptime and reliability. 

• Oversee and continuously improve the IT ticketing system, establish Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and monitor team performance against established KPIs. 

• Exercise independent judgment to evaluate, recommend, and implement technology solutions that support business objectives. 

• Serve as the primary escalation point for complex user, software, hardware, and connectivity issues requiring advanced technical or analytical skills. 

• Lead root cause analysis for recurring problems and develop long-term resolutions and process improvements. 

• Develop, implement, and maintain cybersecurity policies, procedures, and systems in compliance with CMMC and NIST 800-171 standards. 

• Ensure compliance with all applicable data security, confidentiality, and access control requirements. 

• Collaborate with senior leadership to identify business needs, evaluate system enhancements, and plan IT-related capital improvements. 

• Author and maintain detailed process documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and best practice guidelines. 

• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback to IT team members. 

• Manage and approve software and hardware purchases within approved budgets. 

• Stay current with emerging technologies and make recommendations to improve IT strategy, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency. 

Essential Qualifications 

Education or Equivalent: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered. 

• Advanced training or certifications in computer networks or systems administration strongly preferred. 

Experience and Certifications: 

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in IT systems administration.  2 years in a leadership preferred but not required. 

• Professional certifications such as CompTIA+, CCNA, CISSP, or equivalent preferred. 

• Demonstrated experience managing enterprise-level Microsoft 365 (GCCH) environments, including Entra, Intune, Security, Compliance, SharePoint/OneDrive, and Teams. 

• Strong knowledge of Active Directory, Group Policy Management, and Office 365 Administration. 

• Proficient in PowerShell scripting and process automation. 

• Working knowledge of Linux systems. 

• Proven ability to develop and maintain technical documentation and best practices. 

Necessary Skills, Knowledge & Judgment 

• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop a technical team. 

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management capabilities. 

• Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills. 

• Ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion on matters of significance to the organization. 

• Strong understanding of cybersecurity frameworks and compliance requirements. 

• U.S. Citizen or permanent resident with an active or eligible security clearance (Secret or Top Secret). 

Language Skills 

Must be able to communicate effectively and professionally with colleagues, vendors, and management. 

Reasoning Ability 

Ability to analyze complex technical and business problems, evaluate solutions, and make sound recommendations. Must demonstrate initiative, critical thinking, and decision-making autonomy. 

Physical Demands 

Ability to lift and handle computing hardware up to 30 pounds. 

Work Environment 

Work will be conducted in both office and manufacturing environments. May require occasional after-hours or weekend work to support system maintenance or incident response. 

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: 

• Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families. 

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off. 

• Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families. 

• Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage. 

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses. 

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future. 

• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year. 

• Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture. 

• Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play! 

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel  

the aerospace industry forward. 

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA** 

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Company Overview 

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services. 

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel  

the aerospace industry forward. 

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA** 

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E-Verify participation required for employment.  
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.     
Must be able to pass background check.   

Salary Range: $115k - $150K Salary Exempt (DOE)