Vantage Systems, Inc. (Vantage), is a pioneering force in the realm of multi-disciplinary engineering services for spaceflight projects. Since our establishment in 1992, we have consistently delivered progressive solutions to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) space flight community earning recognition for our unwavering integrity and dedication to delivering top-tier solutions that align with the U.S. space program missions.

For over three decades, Vantage’s commitment to quality service and innovation has driven our rapid growth. Fueled by a deep understanding of the ever-evolving U.S. space program, we continuously pioneer progressive solutions to address NASA’s & DoD’s pressing challenges. Our unwavering commitment to exceptional service is built upon a foundation of ethics, honesty, and a people-centric approach. Join us as we forge ahead, combining our expertise with NASA’s legacy of excellence to shape the future of space exploration.

We are looking for highly qualified candidates for a contract positioned onsite at the Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) SSHINE contract.

Job description:

The IT Administrator (IT III) is responsible for managing and supporting IT infrastructure for Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) space technology programs, including servers, networks, software applications, and cloud computing architectures. This role focuses on ground system IT infrastructure, Mission Operations Center systems, classified and unclassified networks, and hardware/software-in-the-loop testing environments supporting missions ranging from CubeSats to ESPA-class satellites. The IT Administrator ensures system integrity, network security, cybersecurity compliance, and provides technical support for space mission operations. This is a journeyman level position.

The ideal candidate will support:

• Ground system IT infrastructure: Manage physical and cloud-based ground systems, Mission Operations Center IT equipment, and disaggregated development networks
• Classified network administration: Support SIPR, JWICS, and other classified networks within SCIFs and SAPFs for space technology programs
• Cybersecurity and accreditation: Implement security controls, obtain and maintain Authorities to Operate (ATO), and ensure compliance with DoD risk management frameworks
• Testing environment support: Maintain hardware/software-in-the-loop testing environments and cloud computing architectures for prototyping and experimentation

This position requires strong IT administration skills, cybersecurity expertise, and the ability to work in Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) supporting space technology experiments for the Department of Defense.

Key Responsibilities:

Systems & Infrastructure Administration:

• Install, configure, maintain, and upgrade servers, workstations, operating systems, and enterprise applications
• Monitor system performance, availability, and reliability across on-premises and cloud environments
• Manage IT infrastructure supporting business operations, mission systems, labs, or operations centers
• Perform routine patching, updates, and lifecycle maintenance of hardware and software

Network Administration & Connectivity:

• Manage and support network infrastructure including LAN, WAN, VPN, wireless, routers, switches, and firewalls
• Monitor network performance and troubleshoot connectivity issues
• Implement secure network architectures, access controls, and related cybersecurity measures
• Support integration of internal, external, and specialized network environments as needed

Security, Compliance & Classified Support:

• Implement and enforce IT security policies, procedures, and best practices
• Administer user accounts, permissions, and secure access to systems and data
• Support compliance with applicable regulatory, contractual, and security requirements
• Respond to security incidents, vulnerabilities, and system risks in coordination with stakeholders

Cloud, Virtualization & Continuity:

• Support cloud services, hybrid infrastructure, virtualization platforms, and storage solutions
• Implement and maintain backup, disaster recovery, redundancy, and business continuity capabilities
• Maintain UPS, backup power, and other critical support systems as required

User Support & Asset Management:

• Provide technical support for hardware, software, systems, and network issues
• Assist with onboarding, training, and user documentation
• Manage IT assets including hardware, software licenses, configurations, and inventory
• Coordinate procurement of IT equipment, software, and related services

Projects, Documentation & Collaboration:

• Support IT projects including upgrades, migrations, and new technology implementations
• Maintain system documentation, procedures, diagrams, and status reports
• Collaborate with internal teams, vendors, engineers, and leadership to improve IT operations and support mission needs

Minimum Qualifications: