IT Specialist (Contractor)

About Shift5

Shift5 is building the data platform for onboard operational technology (OT). We deliver cybersecurity, predictive maintenance, and compliance capabilities that enable defense and commercial fleets to operate with greater readiness, resilience, and mission assurance.

Shift5 is seeking a versatile Tier 1 IT Support Specialist for a contract-to-hire position in Rosslyn, VA, focused on delivering hands-on technical support and datacenter maintenance with the potential to transition into a permanent role based on performance and fit. This role is the front line of our IT operations, demanding a mix of technical curiosity and a "service-first" mindset. You will be responsible for resolving daily technical issues, assisting with hardware deployments, and performing routine maintenance within our compact datacenter. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, moving seamlessly between desk-side support and hands-on hardware tasks with precision and a high attention to detail. 

Duration: 3 Months

Rate: $60-$85/Hour

What You'll Do

• User Support & Triage: Act as the first point of contact for all technical inquiries, providing timely resolution for hardware, software, and peripheral issues.
• Provisioning & Access: Execute user lifecycle tasks, including hardware imaging, workstation setup, and managing permissions within identity and access management systems.
• Infrastructure Maintenance: Assist with the physical maintenance of on-premises network equipment and datacenter hardware under the guidance of senior staff.
• Documentation: Maintain an accurate Knowledge Base and update ticketing logs to ensure all issues and resolutions are clearly documented for the team.
• Policy Adherence: Implement security configurations on end-user devices to ensure compliance with company and government security standards.
• Operational Support: Monitor system alerts and perform routine health checks on internal office tech (printers, conference rooms, Wi-Fi access points).

What Success Looks Like

• Consistency: Reliable delivery of Tier 1 support services and hardware management.
• Technical Growth: Rapidly learning Shift5’s specific infrastructure and security tools.
• Mission Alignment: Demonstrating the versatility and "multiple hats" mindset required in a nimble, high-growth organization.

What We’re Looking For

• On-site Requirement: 100% on-site in Rosslyn, VA to support physical infrastructure and walk-up requests.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizenship required (Eligibility for a U.S. Government Secret clearance is a major plus).
• Technical Proficiency: Solid understanding of Windows/macOS environments, O365/Google Workspace, and basic networking (TCP/IP, DNS, VPN).
• Troubleshooting Skills: Demonstrated ability to diagnose and resolve software glitches, hardware failures, and connectivity issues.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical users clearly and patiently.
• Detail Oriented: Experience following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and maintaining inventory accuracy.
• Growth Mindset: A "doer" who is eager to learn automation, basic scripting (Bash/Python/PowerShell), and cloud environment management.
• Physical Capability: Ability to rack/stack servers and manage cabling within a datacenter environment.

We are committed to building an inclusive culture of belonging that embraces the diversity of our people and represents the communities in which we work and the customers we serve. We know the happiest and highest performing teams include people with diverse perspectives and ways of solving problems. We strive to attract and retain talent from all backgrounds and create workplaces where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.   

Shift5 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, age, marital status, ancestry, projected veteran status, or any other protected group or class.