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Linux Systems Administrator

  • Maryland, Silver Spring

  • 09/14/2026

  • Contract

  • Active

Job Description:

  • Job Summary
    The Linux Systems Administrator will manage, maintain, secure, and enhance Linux-based servers and desktops supporting mission-critical operations in classified and secure environments. The role requires strong experience with Linux administration, vulnerability management, continuous monitoring, cybersecurity compliance, system hardening, patching, automation, and government security standards. The administrator will work closely with Information Assurance, Cybersecurity, network, and application teams to maintain system security, availability, performance, and compliance.

    Key Responsibilities
    • Perform continuous monitoring of Linux systems using vulnerability scanning tools such as Tenable Nessus.
    • Identify, analyze, track, and remediate vulnerabilities identified through weekly and monthly scans.
    • Mitigate vulnerabilities by applying patches, security updates, configuration changes, and system reconfiguration.
    • Document and report vulnerability remediation activities to support Risk Management Framework (RMF) and Intelligence Community compliance requirements.
    • Deploy, configure, maintain, and secure Linux servers and desktops, including RHEL, Red Hat, CentOS, and Ubuntu environments.
    • Configure and support networking services including DNS, DHCP, and NFS.
    • Manage user accounts, permissions, and authentication in accordance with security policies.
    • Harden Linux systems using Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and approved custom security configurations.
    • Apply and test kernel updates, package upgrades, and security patches across production and development environments.
    • Monitor Linux systems for performance, security, and availability and proactively resolve issues.
    • Implement and maintain system backup and disaster recovery procedures.
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support system integration and deployment activities.
    • Develop and maintain Bash, Python, and other automation scripts to streamline system administration and cybersecurity tasks.
    • Implement and manage automated patching and vulnerability remediation using tools such as Ansible, Puppet, or Chef.
    • Maintain detailed system configuration and operational documentation.
    • Document vulnerability findings, mitigations, and resolutions in tickets and compliance reports.
    • Support security audits by providing technical information and collaborating with Information Assurance teams.
    • Work closely with Information Assurance and Cybersecurity teams to ensure systems meet required security standards.
    • Collaborate with network administrators and application teams to integrate Linux environments supporting enterprise solutions.
    • Evaluate technological advancements and recommend appropriate system and process improvements.

    Required Qualifications
    • Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
    • 5 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree or 3 years of experience with a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
    • 3–5+ years of experience managing Linux environments in classified or secure settings.
    • Strong proficiency with Linux operating systems, including Ubuntu and Red Hat.
    • Experience with Linux package management and system administration.
    • Strong scripting skills using Bash, Python, or similar languages for automation.
    • Understanding of system security requirements within DoD or Intelligence Community environments.
    • Experience with security standards and practices such as STIGs and RMF.
    • Strong troubleshooting, documentation, communication, and problem-solving skills.

    Preferred Qualifications
    • Experience with virtualization technologies such as KVM, Red Hat virtualization, or Proxmox.
    • Familiarity with configuration management and automation tools such as Ansible, Puppet, or Chef.
    • Knowledge of containerization technologies including Docker and Kubernetes.
    Certifications
    • Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA).
    • ITIL certification or equivalent.

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