Junior Computer Systems Analysts (Systems Administrator)

Saalex is seeking a Junior Computer Systems Analysts (Systems Administrator) in China Lake, CA.  Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and Information Technology Services company with a focus on Test Range Operations and Management, Engineering and Logistics Services, Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Services and Information Technology Services.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $72k-$78k annually (depending on experience)

Work Location: Onsite.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an Entry/Intermediate-level System Administrator (SA) to support the Aircrew Electronic Warfare Tactical Training Ranges (AEWTTR) program to provide support to the Threat Support Systems (TSS) environment. The SA, located at China Lake, CA, will have local program support responsibilities. This position requires the ability to work independently with minimal oversight and guidance, including preparing professional reports and cybersecurity documentation with direct guidance and oversight. The ideal candidate will also be a strong team player who is willing to embrace challenges, operate outside their comfort zone, and thrive in a dynamic and evolving program environment.

Key Attributes

• Team player mindset, able to collaborate effectively with government and contractor teammates.
• Comfortable being uncomfortable — able to adapt, adjust, and learn in fast-changing, high-pressure environments.
• Willingness to embrace challenges and drive solutions where processes may be unclear or evolving.
• Ability to work semi-independently at China Lake while staying connected with program leadership.
• Professional maturity and confidence in direct government engagement.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills to balance multiple tasks.
• Commitment to mission success and maintaining secure, accredited systems.

Essential Functions:

• Provides direct support to the Aircrew Electronic Warfare Tactical Training Ranges (AEWTTR) Program and supplementary support to the Mobile and Integrated Threats Division (MITD).
• Develops, tests, and deploys automation capabilities using scripting to automate cybersecurity compliance and custom assessments on threat systems and supporting Threat Support Systems (TSS).
• Assists in the design, procurement, installation, maintenance, and sustainment for all systems and the labs in which they reside.
• Responsible for the planning, development, acquisition, and deployment of a digital engineering environment.
• Researches, analyzes, installs, and tests software updates, patches, and hot fixes.
• Provides technical support to software developers, users, and other personnel to resolve issues.
• (Intermediate) Requires administrative system-level knowledge of VMWare, experience with Windows and Linux OS, networking, DoD Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs), and vulnerability patching.

Required:

• Must meet DoD 8140/8570 Information Assurance Workforce requirements — either through an approved certification (e.g., CompTIA Security+ CE) or education equivalency as defined by the Navy COOL framework (Navy COOL SA/ISSM Matrix).
• 0-5 years of cybersecurity or SA experience within DoD environments.
• Demonstrated ability to independently write and deliver professional reports, findings, and compliance documentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Desired:

• (Intermediate) Certification (Certified Network Defender (CND), CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+).
• Hands-on experience with STIGs and ACAS scans.
• Knowledge of RMF process, eMASS, and DoD IA controls.
• Prior experience supporting Navy aviation/range programs.
• Experience with Navy cybersecurity toolsets and compliance inspections.

Professional Development:

The selected candidate is expected to complete the following desired development courses within the first year (company-supported):

• DAU Cybersecurity and SA training (e.g., CLE 074, Cybersecurity Fundamentals, RMF for DoD IT, Etc.).
• Advanced DoD RMF/SA-focused training (such as eMASS user training).
• DISA STIG & ACAS Vulnerability Management workshops.
• LinkedIn Learning / equivalent courses on report writing, professional communication, and technical documentation.
• Begin progression toward an advanced certification CompTIA Cloud+, CompTIA Security+, Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), SecurityCompTIA, SecurityX (formerly CASP+),

Education:

High School Diploma or GED required.

Security Clearance:

Active Secret required with the ability to obtain/upgrade to a Top Secret. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc.

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Wellness Resources
• Stock Option Plan