Principal System Architect Jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
Principal System Architect jobs in Colorado Springs are concentrated in the defense corridor around Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever, and the Briargate business district, with strong demand across defense contractors, cybersecurity firms, and aerospace systems integrators. Employers actively hiring include Kratos Defense, deciBel research, and Booz Allen Hamilton. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Job ID: 2614367
Location: Colorado Springs, CO, US
Date Posted: 2026-07-08
Category: Information Technology
Subcategory: Sys Administrator
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: Yes - 10% of the time
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: TS/SCI
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
We are seeking a skilled and motivated System Administrator in Colorado Springs, CO to join our team and play a key role in managing and advancing our IT infrastructure within a Department of Defense (DoD) environment. In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining robust, secure, and high-performing systems that support mission-critical operations.
The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience with enterprise virtualization platforms (Nutanix, VMware, and/or Proxmox), Windows Server administration, and a working knowledge of DoD security compliance standards. You are someone who takes ownership, communicates clearly across teams, and thrives in a regulated, security-first environment.
Key Responsibilities
Install, configure, and maintain Windows Server environments, including Active Directory, Group Policy, and user permissions management.
Manage and optimize on-premises Type 1 hypervisor platforms (Nutanix, VMware, Proxmox) to ensure high availability and performance.
Implement and maintain system security controls in accordance with DoD standards and applicable STIGs/RMF requirements.
Monitor network performance, diagnose connectivity issues, and recommend improvements to infrastructure reliability.
Manage system patching and update cycles to maintain compliance, reduce vulnerabilities, and minimize operational downtime.
Administer and maintain backup and recovery technologies; conduct periodic validation of restore procedures.
Create and maintain thorough documentation of system configurations, procedures, and security policies.
Partner with cross-functional teams to evaluate, implement, and enhance system functionality and security posture.
Stay current on emerging technologies, industry best practices, and evolving DoD compliance requirements.
Qualifications
TYPICAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelors and five (5) years or more experience; Masters and three (3) years or more experience; PhD and 0 years related experience
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field with 5 years of relevant experience; OR
High school diploma/GED with 8+ years of equivalent hands-on experience in a system administration role.
Experience
Demonstrated experience as a System Administrator in a DoD or similarly regulated, security-conscious environment.
Solid hands-on experience with VMware and/or other enterprise virtualization technologies.
Strong proficiency in Windows Server administration, including Active Directory and Group Policy.
Working knowledge of networking protocols, system security best practices, and IT infrastructure management.
Technical Skills
Proficient in Windows Server administration, patching, and update management.
Experience with on-premises Type 1 hypervisors (Nutanix, VMware, Proxmox preferred).
Familiarity with enterprise collaboration and project management tools.
Understanding of DoD compliance frameworks, STIGs, and security hardening standards.
Experience with enterprise backup/recovery platforms and documented DR procedures.
Certifications
Required
CompTIA Security+ (DoD 8570/8140 compliant)
Active TS/SCI clearance
Preferred (not required)
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
Nutanix Certified Professional or VMware Certified Professional (VCP)
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
CompTIA Security X (Formerly CASP +)
What We’re Looking For
A critical thinker with strong problem-solving and analytical skills who can diagnose issues quickly and methodically.
Clear, professional communicator who can translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
Collaborative team player who also has the confidence and skill to work autonomously when needed.
Detail-oriented and organized, with a track record of maintaining accurate documentation and meeting compliance deadlines.
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Who's Hiring



Top Industries Hiring
- Media & Entertainment
- Non-Profit & Social Services
- Consulting & Professional Services
Principal System Architect Jobs in Colorado Springs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a principal system architect job in Colorado Springs?
Target the defense and space sectors that dominate Colorado Springs hiring, including prime contractors and systems integrators clustered near Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, and Fort Carson. Clearance eligibility is a genuine differentiator here since many roles require active Secret or Top Secret access. Candidates with MBSE tooling experience, DoD acquisition familiarity, or a background in satellite or missile systems consistently stand out in this market.
Which companies hire principal system architects in Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs principal system architect roles are posted by Kratos Defense, deciBel research, and Booz Allen Hamilton and others right now, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. Colorado Springs draws a mix of large defense primes, mid-tier government contractors, and growing cybersecurity and space technology firms tied to the installation missions nearby.
Are there remote principal system architect jobs in Colorado Springs?
Yes, though remote availability is limited since many Colorado Springs roles require on-site collaboration tied to classified programs or secure facilities. About 12% of principal system architect openings tied to Colorado Springs are remote or hybrid as of July 2026, with hybrid arrangements more common at commercial technology and cybersecurity employers than at defense contractors requiring cleared facility access.
How can I get a principal system architect job in Colorado Springs with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path in Colorado Springs is through a systems engineer or junior architect role at a mid-tier defense contractor, where progression to principal level is structured around program milestones and cleared work experience. Employers supporting Air Force and Space Force programs frequently hire entry-level engineers who build toward architecture responsibilities over several years. Obtaining a security clearance early and gaining experience with requirements decomposition and DoD system lifecycle processes accelerates that path locally.
Which industries hire the most principal system architects in Colorado Springs?
The sectors hiring the most principal system architects in Colorado Springs are Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit & Social Services, and Consulting & Professional Services, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. Colorado Springs' concentration of military installations and space operations commands makes defense systems and national security technology the dominant drivers of local demand for senior architecture talent.
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