Linux Systems Admin with Security Clearance

Linux Systems Administrator Location: Richardson, TX Schedule: Monday - Friday, Normal Business Hours Clearance Required: Active Top Secret Security Clearance Certification Required: DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II (Security+ or Higher) Job Description We are seeking a Linux Systems Administrator to join a high-performing team supporting secure laboratory environments. This role provides end-to-end support for Linux-based systems and infrastructure, spanning Tier 1 through Tier 3 responsibilities.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience administering Linux environments, implementing security controls, supporting virtualization technologies, and maintaining compliance within classified environments. This position offers the opportunity to work alongside engineering, cybersecurity, and infrastructure teams supporting mission-critical systems within a secure environment.

Key Responsibilities Tier 1 - Frontline Support Respond to service requests and incident tickets. Perform initial triage, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis. Gather required information and escalate issues when necessary. Support end users and Linux-based systems within secure environments. Tier 2 - Systems Administration Install, configure, administer, and maintain Linux operating systems (RHEL and Ubuntu). Support server hardware, virtualization platforms, networking, and storage technologies. Deploy patches, upgrades, and system updates.

Monitor system health and ensure operational stability. Tier 3 - Advanced Engineering & Security Support Troubleshoot and resolve complex system and infrastructure issues. Lead advanced technical escalations across multiple support levels. Collaborate with engineering and cybersecurity teams to implement solutions. Provide technical expertise for system architecture and operational improvements. Security, Compliance & Hardening Implement and maintain security baselines using DISA STIGs and NIST 800-53 controls. Utilize OpenSCAP and other compliance tools to assess and remediate vulnerabilities.

Perform automated system hardening and compliance enforcement across enterprise assets. Support security audits and continuous monitoring initiatives. Automation & Process Improvement Develop and maintain automation solutions using Ansible and related tools. Support configuration management and infrastructure-as-code initiatives. Contribute to operational excellence through process improvement methodologies such as LEAN, ACE, and CORE. Collaboration & Communication Partner with cross-functional teams to support mission requirements.

Build strong relationships with customers, stakeholders, and infrastructure teams. Communicate project status, results, and return-on-investment metrics to leadership. Collaborate with domestic IT and engineering organizations to ensure successful outcomes. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience; OR
Advanced degree in a related field; OR
5+ years of professional experience in lieu of a degree.

Technical Requirements
Experience administering Linux environments, specifically:
Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
Ubuntu Linux
Linux Systems Administration experience in enterprise environments. Experience supporting:
Server administration
VMware or other virtualization technologies
Networking fundamentals
Enterprise storage technologies
Experience implementing and maintaining:
NIST 800-53 controls
DISA STIG compliance requirements
Experience with OpenSCAP and Linux security hardening. Experience with Ansible strongly preferred.

Required Certifications Active DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II certification (Security+, CySA+, CCNA Security, or equivalent). Clearance Requirement Active Top Secret Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications RHCSA, RHCE, Ubuntu, or other Linux administration certifications.
Ansible, Puppet, or configuration management certifications.
Advanced cybersecurity certifications such as CISSP, CASP+, or similar.
Experience supporting secure laboratory or classified environments.
Experience working within regulated government or defense environments.