IT Specialist

Worker Type Regular Job Description AV has an opportunity for an IT Specialist supporting secure, mission-critical computing environments and end users within closed-network enclaves. This role is responsible for providing hands-on technical support, system administration, infrastructure monitoring, and troubleshooting across Windows and Linux environments. The ideal candidate will have a strong customer-service mindset, experience supporting enterprise systems, and a desire to continue expanding their technical expertise in systems administration, networking, virtualization, and automation. This position requires someone who is comfortable resolving time-sensitive technical issues, researching solutions independently, and working within secure and compliance-driven environments. Essential Functions Provide technical and system administration support for two closed-enclave environments, including infrastructure, users, and services. Monitor infrastructure and systems proactively to identify and address issues before service interruptions occur. Troubleshoot hardware, software, and system issues directly with end users in a hands-on support environment. Support Windows and Linux operating systems across networked and standalone configurations. Assist with virtualization administration, including creation, migration, and backup of virtual machines within VMware vSphere environments. Support and maintain networking equipment and infrastructure while applying networking best practices. Implement and maintain configuration management processes and system documentation. Develop and maintain scripts to automate system administration tasks using tools such as Bash or Python. Ensure systems remain compliant with all applicable security policies, procedures, and operational requirements. Prepare and maintain technical documentation, user guidance materials, policies, and standard operating procedures. Assume primary ownership of technical support responsibilities for assigned enclaves within six months of hire. Provide onsite support coverage Monday through Friday during normal business hours. Required Education and Experience U.S. Citizenship required. Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance or higher. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical field; equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. Minimum of 2 years of experience in systems administration, network administration, or technical support roles supporting Windows, Linux, or MacOS environments. Experience troubleshooting hardware and software issues in a customer-facing support environment. Working knowledge of virtualization technologies, preferably VMware vSphere. Basic understanding of networking concepts and network infrastructure. Experience creating scripts to automate administrative or operational tasks. Strong problem-solving, research, and communication skills with the ability to work independently in time-sensitive environments. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting secure or classified environments. Familiarity with configuration management and compliance-driven systems. Experience supporting both Windows and Linux enterprise environments. Prior experience working in a government or DoD environment. Clearance Level TS/SCI The salary range for this role is: $74,500 - $113,500 AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: . We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. About AV: AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next. If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.