Advance Your Career as a Senior IT Systems Administrator with the Air Force
Are you a seasoned IT professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) is currently hiring an Information Technology Specialist (Systems Administration) to serve as a senior technical leader at the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical skills within a high-stakes, mission-critical environment at Kelly AFB or Lackland AFB, Texas.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Systems Administrator, you will be the backbone of IT operations. Your duties include:
- System Lifecycle Management: Planning, installing, modifying, and upgrading hardware and software operating systems.
- Performance Optimization: Developing strategies to tune systems, manage databases, and ensure peak functionality.
- Strategic Advisory: Serving as a senior technical advisor to management and leading complex projects on special committees.
- Technical Troubleshooting: Resolving complex issues to minimize downtime and maintain seamless service delivery.
- Industry Liaison: Maintaining active communication with manufacturers and industry counterparts to integrate state-of-the-art technologies.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, applicants must meet specific federal requirements:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Specialized Experience: You need at least one year of experience at the NH-02 or GS-11 grade level. This must include hands-on experience with system administration, application installation, and technical support.
- Core Competencies: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in attention to detail, customer service, oral communication, and complex problem-solving.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with the responsibilities of a senior-level IT administrator.
| Pay Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $90,823 - $140,403 per year |
| Pay Plan | NH-03 (GS-05 to GS-11 equivalent) |
| Job Series | 2210 (Information Technology Management) |
| Schedule | Full-Time, Permanent |
In addition to the salary, employees enjoy robust federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, life insurance, generous retirement contributions through FERS, and significant paid time off.
Application Tips for Success
- Format Matters: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The system will automatically reject longer resumes.
- Highlight Hours: Federal hiring managers need to verify your experience. Ensure your resume clearly notes hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Use Keywords: Align your resume with the specific Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the job description, such as "performance tuning," "hardware/software integration," and "project management."
- Proofread: Ensure your resume is free of personal data like social security numbers to avoid immediate disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the closing date for this application? A: The position is open until February 19, 2027.
Q: Can I apply for both locations? A: Yes, this position covers multiple locations in Texas, including Kelly AFB and Lackland AFB.
Q: Do I need to be a current federal employee? A: No, this announcement is open to the public.
If you are an experienced IT professional who thrives on troubleshooting, managing complex systems, and acting as a technical leader, this role with the Air Force Materiel Command is an ideal next step. Apply today to secure your place in an organization that values innovation, integrity, and excellence in every mission.
Why This Information Technology Specialist (Systems Administration) - Direct Hiring Authority Job Matters
Ready to advance your IT career? The Air Force Materiel Command is seeking a Senior Systems Administrator to lead critical infrastructure projects and ensure mission success.
Information Technology Specialist (Systems Administration) - Direct Hiring Authority Job Overview
The Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center is looking for a skilled Information Technology Specialist (Systems Administration) to join their team in Texas. In this role, you will act as a senior subject matter expert, responsible for the end-to-end management of hardware and software systems. You will play a pivotal role in planning, installing, troubleshooting, and optimizing complex IT environments to support the mission of the United States Air Force.
Requirements for Information Technology Specialist (Systems Administration) - Direct Hiring Authority
- U.S. Citizenship
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the NH-02 broadband level or GS-11 equivalent
- Must meet OPM qualification standards for the 2210 Information Technology Management series
- Ability to demonstrate proficiency in four key competencies: Attention to Detail, Customer Service, Oral Communication, and Problem Solving
- Resume must not exceed two pages, include hours worked per week, and specify dates of employment
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearance
Preferred Qualifications for Information Technology Specialist (Systems Administration) - Direct Hiring Authority
- Experience in advanced systems performance tuning
- Proven history of leading special committees or technical projects
- Strong background in managing interoperability across complex hardware/software ecosystems
- Demonstrated ability to liaison with manufacturers and industry counterparts
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance
- ✓Federal Retirement Benefits (FERS)
- ✓Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
- ✓Telework Eligibility (subject to agency policy)
- ✓Professional Development and Training Opportunities
💡 How to Apply Information Technology Specialist (Systems Administration) - Direct Hiring Authority Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Information Technology Specialist (Systems Administration) - Direct Hiring Authority Job
- Create an account or log in to USAJOBS
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages and includes all required details (dates, hours, pay plan/series/grade)
- Complete the online application questionnaire
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and any relevant federal employee performance appraisals
- Submit your application package by the closing date of February 19, 2027
- Verify receipt of application via your USAJOBS dashboard
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; excess pages will result in immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your resume clearly lists hours worked per week, as this is critical for verifying your experience.
- Do not include personal information like social security numbers or photographs on your resume.
- Submit your documents early to account for the one-hour virus scan delay.
- Current federal employees should explicitly list their most recent performance ratings and awards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary for this NH-03 position ranges from $90,823 to $140,403 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, though specific schedules are determined by departmental policy and mission requirements.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
Per the job announcement, resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. Please ensure your resume is concise and focused.
Job from Air Force Materiel Command
The Department of the Air Force is dedicated to maintaining global vigilance, reach, and power. To support these core competencies, the agency relies on top-tier technology and the professionals who manage it. Joining the AFMC means becoming part of a community that values integrity, service, and excellence. You will contribute directly to the infrastructure that keeps the Air Force operating "anytime, anywhere."