Description
Are you looking to bridge your classroom coursework in computer science, systems administration, or cybersecurity with real-world national defense technology? At Leidos, we don’t just offer internships - we offer career acceleration.
Join Leidos’ mission-focused Air Force National Capital Region (AFNCR) IT Services team supporting senior defense leaders and national-level command functions. It's a fast-paced, high-stakes environment where the work directly supports national defense operations where uptime is mission-essential. As a Systems Administration Intern you will work side-by-side with experienced enterprise technicians and system administrators. You will gain direct, hands-on experience troubleshooting computer systems, setting up hardware, configuring mobile devices, and delivering first-class customer support to personnel in a professional government environment.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Systems & Hardware Operations (Hands-On Learning):
+ Shadow senior systems administrators during the setup, testing, and deployment of enterprise servers, workstations, and peripheral equipment. + Assist in physical hardware relocations, cable management, hardware diagnostics, and component upgrades.
- Software Installation & System Maintenance:
+ Learn and assist with the deployment and configuration of GCCS client and server software operating on Windows platforms within Active Directory and DNS environments. + Observe and assist in executing routine system audits, pre-deployment checklists, and daily health-monitoring scripts.
- Automation & Administration Fundamentals:
+ Gain practical exposure to PowerShell scripting and automation tools used to configure workstations and pull system reports. + Observe Group Policy Objects (GPOs), DHCP configuration, and identity management within an enterprise Active Directory domain.
- Cybersecurity & Vulnerability Management:
+ Learn how DoD patch management and vulnerability remediation processes work in a secured environment. + Shadow the application of software patches and security updates to maintain system readiness.
- Data Protection & Disaster Recovery Support:
+ Assist in running routine system backup procedures and learn how contingency and disaster recovery (COOP) plans are structured for high-availability military command systems.
Required Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate program pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Systems Administration, or a closely related field.
- Must be in good academic standing (Rising Sophomores, Juniors, or Seniors considered).
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance (or possess an active clearance).
- Foundational understanding of Windows operating systems and fundamental PC hardware architecture.
- Basic understanding of networking fundamentals (IP addresses, subnets, DNS, default gateways).
- Classroom familiarity or personal interest in scripting (PowerShell, Bash, or Python).
- Strong intellectual curiosity, problem-solving mindset, and eagerness to learn specialized defense software.
- Solid written and verbal communication skills with a professional demeanor.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Current CompTIA Security+ certification (or actively preparing to take the exam for DoD 8140/8570 compliance).
- Experience with virtual machines (VirtualBox, VMware, Hyper-V) or home-lab system administration.
- Familiarity with PowerShell commands or basic administrative scripts.
- Prior experience in IT support, help desk, campus technology labs, or student computing centers.
- Exposure to basic command-line utilities, Active Directory concepts, or relational databases.
Work location and schedule
- National Capital Region (Pentagon / Joint Base Andrews / Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling area)
- FT or PT, core business hours 8am-4pm, 10-12 week internship, target start early June 2027
- Limited public transportation options
Why Leidos? What This Internship Offers You
- Real-World Impact: Hands-on exposure to mission-critical systems that support top senior leaders and joint military defense operations.
- Direct Mentorship: Daily guidance from senior systems engineers who are invested in your technical growth and professional development.
- Defense Tech Foundation: Clear pathways toward post-graduation full-time employment, government security clearance attainment, and DoD 8140 compliance.
- Skill Advancement: Transform academic theory into tangible experience spanning Windows Server environments, PowerShell automation, enterprise cybersecurity, and disaster recovery.