Linux System Administrator
About the role
AV is looking for a Linux System Administrator to join the Cyber and Intel Division’s Operation Infrastructure Team. This team is responsible for full life-cycle management of 24x7 mission-focused infrastructure hosting tailored applications and solutions. You will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of deployed systems, including monitoring, auditing, log review, maintenance, troubleshooting, and after-hours response. This role offers a unique opportunity to grow your depth and breadth of skills with a path toward more advanced network and solution engineering, directly impacting the mission.
After-hours support will occasionally be required for alerts, emergencies, or planned maintenance activities. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, time-management skills, and a customer-focused mindset are essential.
Responsibilities
- Establish Standard Operating Procedures for all NOC activities
- Ensure all deployed systems are operational and accessible by end-users
- Quickly and appropriately respond to network outages and security incidents
- Configure and manage NOC monitoring dashboards, alerting, and coordinated response
- Review and audit system logs daily
- Interface with customers to resolve system issues and access requests
- Perform system troubleshooting and escalate when appropriate
- Coordinate and execute system updates
- Thoroughly document all actions, incidents, and findings, including monthly reporting
- Assist with implementing automated monitoring and alerting systems
- Routine monitoring and integrity verification of system backups
- Conduct periodic vulnerability scans to ensure compliance with system specifications
- Provide feedback to software developers on system performance, issues, and customer experience
- Proactively communicate with team members and management
- Continually monitor trends in the IT industry for new products and security advisories
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in information technology (or a related field) or equivalent hands-on experience
- 3+ years of experience in Linux system administration
- 2+ years of experience in log analysis and system auditing
- 2+ years of experience in network administration
- 2+ years of experience in network functional status monitoring and alerting
- An active SECRET level clearance; must be willing to process for TOP SECRET clearance (required for the duration of the position)
- Security-minded approach to all engineering and administration efforts
- Strong communication skills (both written and verbal) and technical documentation skills
- Detail-oriented and critical thinking mindset
Desired Qualifications
- An active TOP SECRET Clearance
- NOC/SOC Experience
- Knowledge of Splunk (including development of searches, reports, and dashboards)
- Experience with Zabbix
- Working knowledge of Ansible and other automation toolsets
- Experience with Network and Host-based IDS Systems
- Netflow analysis skills
- Familiarity with Python and Bash scripting
- Experience with network analysis and troubleshooting tools (e.g., Wireshark and tcpdump)
- Vulnerability and compliance scanning with Nessus and other toolsets
- Familiarity with Virtualization Technologies such as VMware and Proxmox
- Experience with containerization and Docker
- Understanding of VPN Technologies such as IPsec or OpenVPN
- Understanding of SSL/TLS configurations and certificate management
- Willingness to support end-users, including after-hours on-call support
Location
This position is located at 13900 Lincoln Park Dr, Herndon, VA 20171. This is a full-time, in-office role.
Pay
Salary range: $80,000 to $100,000
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401K with company matching
- 9/80 work schedule
- Paid holiday shutdown
Additional Requirements
This position requires access to information subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must provide documentation to verify U.S. person status (e.g., U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee). Some positions may require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements.