Contract Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

At ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our success starts and ends with our people, so we built a company where great people can do great things, with the resources and autonomy to make decisions that transform organizations. We operate as one team of diverse people, united by a passion for continuous growth and optimization. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation. www.validatek.com

ValidaTek is seeking a reliable and highly skilled Senior Linux Administrator to support the Cybersecurity Systems Support (CSS) contract with the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA). This position is responsible for the architecture, day-to-day operations, maintenance, and security of enterprise Linux systems, particularly Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), in a high-security DoD environment. The ideal candidate will possess a deep technical foundation in open-source and Linux environments, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to lead the support of a secure and stable IT infrastructure. This is a 100% on-site role located in Pensacola, FL.

Shift: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 3:00pm

• Administer, maintain, and provide advanced troubleshooting for Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) servers, ensuring optimal system performance, security, and availability.
• Manage, optimize, and support Linux-centric enterprise services (e.g., DNS, DHCP, NFS, Identity Management/FreeIPA).
• Lead OS patching, updates, and antivirus definition deployments using Red Hat Satellite in strict compliance with DoD STIGs and IAVM directives.
• Develop, maintain, and execute Ansible playbooks to automate system configurations, security remediation, and routine administrative tasks.
• Participate in and lead the implementation, automation, and enforcement of security controls as part of the Risk Management Framework (RMF).
• Contribute to eMASS documentation and ATO/IATT sustainment efforts.
• Perform system monitoring, log analysis, and advanced troubleshooting for complex hardware, OS, and network issues, serving as an escalation point.
• Create and maintain highly accurate documentation of system configurations, infrastructure changes, and standard operating procedures.
• Oversee backup and recovery operations, ensuring data protection and mission continuity.
• Provide operational support and maintenance for hosted data brokering and event streaming applications (such as Apache NiFi and Kafka) as part of the broader Linux infrastructure.
• Work collaboratively with network, data engineering, cybersecurity, and help desk teams, and mentor junior administrators to ensure secure, stable, and compliant system operations.

• Active Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field OR equivalent hands-on experience.
• DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification (e.g., Security+ CE) – required.
• 5+ years of experience in systems administration in a DoD or large enterprise environment.
• Extensive experience with Linux systems administration, with a heavy focus on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL).
• Strong, hands-on experience with Ansible for configuration management, automation, and orchestration.
• Demonstrated experience managing Red Hat Satellite for system provisioning, patch management, and subscription management.
• Familiarity with virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware vSphere, KVM).
• Working knowledge of STIG compliance, RMF, and security best practices specifically for Linux environments.
• Proficiency in Linux scripting (e.g., Bash, Python).
• Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to work independently or lead technical initiatives in a secure, structured environment.
• Excellent communication and technical documentation abilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience or familiarity with data brokering and message brokering platforms, specifically Apache NiFi and Apache Kafka.
• Linux vendor certifications such as Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), or VMware Certified Professional (VCP).
• Familiarity with containerization (e.g., Podman, Docker, Kubernetes/OpenShift).
• Familiarity with eMASS, HBSS, ACAS, or Splunk.
• Understanding of ITIL practices, including change and configuration management.
• Experience supporting DoD or classified information systems.

USD $90,000.00/Yr.
USD $115,000.00/Yr.
Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, geographic location, contract affordability, internal equity, education, and certifications.
The upper end of the salary range may be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated tenure with the company, seniority, and proven excellent performance. This includes factors such as education, certifications, and extensive/unique experience beyond what is required.
ValidaTek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to verify authorization to work in the United States.
Offers of employment will be contingent upon passing a post-offer background check.