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Entry Level Linux Administrator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Linux Administrator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$52

$79

How much do entry level linux administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level linux administrator in Chicago, IL is $52.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.32 and $61.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges an Entry Level Linux Administrator may encounter in their first year on the job?

Entry Level Linux Administrators often face challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced environment, managing multiple support tickets, and learning to troubleshoot a wide variety of system issues. Gaining proficiency with command-line tools, scripting, and remote server management can be daunting at first, but these skills are essential for daily tasks. Additionally, newcomers may need time to become familiar with the organization's specific infrastructure and security protocols, but collaborating with experienced team members can help ease this transition.

What does an Entry Level Linux Administrator do?

An Entry Level Linux Administrator is responsible for assisting in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of Linux-based systems. They help monitor system performance, apply updates and patches, manage user accounts, and ensure system security. Their role often involves troubleshooting basic issues, supporting other IT staff, and learning advanced administration tasks. This position is ideal for those starting their career in system administration and looking to build a solid foundation in Linux environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Linux Administrator vs Network Support Technician?

AspectEntry Level Linux AdministratorNetwork Support Technician
Required CertificationsLinux+, CompTIA A+CompTIA Network+, A+
Work EnvironmentData centers, server rooms, IT departmentsHelp desks, network operations centers, client sites
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, hosting providers, enterprisesTelecom, ISPs, corporate IT support
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Linux Administrator primarily manages Linux servers, focusing on system setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting within data centers or enterprise environments. In contrast, a Network Support Technician handles network hardware, connectivity issues, and basic troubleshooting across various network infrastructures. While both roles require foundational IT certifications and support similar industries, the Linux Administrator specializes in server OS management, whereas the Network Support Technician focuses on network hardware and connectivity issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Linux Administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Linux Administrator, you need a foundational understanding of Linux operating systems, basic networking, and troubleshooting, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with command-line tools, shell scripting, and knowledge of systems like Red Hat, Ubuntu, or CentOS—as well as certifications such as CompTIA Linux+ or LPIC-1—are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate and respond to system issues efficiently. These skills are crucial for ensuring system reliability, security, and smooth operation in IT environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Administrator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Linux Administrator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Linux Administrator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Linux Administrator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Linux Administrator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Linux Administrator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Linux Administrator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,746 per year, or $52.8 per hour.
Incident Response Senior Consultant

Incident Response Senior Consultant

Crowe LLP

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Your Journey at Crowe Starts Here:

At Crowe, you can build a meaningful and rewarding career. With real flexibility to balance work with life moments, you're trusted to deliver results and make an impact. We embrace you for who you are, care for your well-being, and nurture your career. Everyone has equitable access to opportunities for career growth and leadership. Over our 80-year history, delivering excellent service through innovation has been a core part of our DNA across our audit, tax, and consulting groups. That's why we continuously invest in innovative ideas, such as AI-enabled insights and technology-powered solutions, to enhance our services. Join us at Crowe and embark on a career where you can help shape the future of our industry.

Job Description:

The Incident Response Senior Staff position at Crowe is a client-facing role designed for professionals in the field of cybersecurity, particularly within incident response (IR). This position requires a higher level of ownership and responsibility compared to entry-level roles, demanding creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to manage complex IR engagements. The successful candidate will engage directly with clients, leading calls and handling deliverables such as analysis and report drafting. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about cybersecurity and are eager to apply their expertise in a dynamic, market-facing environment, contributing to the protection and recovery of client systems under attack.

Responsibilities
  • Interact directly with clients during Incident Response (IR) engagements, providing expert guidance and support.

  • Coordinate with IR team members and external resources to execute and complete IR engagements effectively.

  • Investigate security incidents, including Business Email Compromise, Ransomware attacks, and Data breaches.

  • Assist with on-site incident response engagements, either as the sole on-site resource or in collaboration with other personnel.

  • Collect and analyze forensic evidence from impacted systems to support investigations.

  • Conduct threat hunting activities using EDR, SIEM, and application logs to identify and remediate threat actor entry and persistence methods.

  • Assist with the secure recovery of client environments, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations.

  • Prepare detailed reports covering the findings of investigations, providing actionable insights and recommendations.

  • Apply incident response knowledge to enhance ongoing cybersecurity practices and strategies.

Requirements
  • Commitment to and proven track record of continually expanding skillsets and knowledge.

  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with a strong attention to detail.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with clients and team members.

  • Proven adaptability and a drive to learn and master new technologies.

  • Ability to maintain focus and composure in high-stress situations.

  • Willingness to travel 15% of the time or more, as required.

  • 4+ years of experience in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity, or a combination of a minimum of 2 years of experience with equivalent educational experience (such as a bachelor's or higher degree in a related field, or relevant certifications).

  • Experience utilizing SIEM or other log aggregation tools such as Splunk, Elastic, FortiSIEM, or Microsoft Sentinel.

  • Experience with EDR tools like SentinelOne, CrowdStrike, Carbon Black, or Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.

  • Strong understanding of networking, IT, and cybersecurity concepts.

  • Proficiency in scripting and command interpreter usage (e.g., Bash, PowerShell, Python).

  • Strong documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous incident response experience.

  • Relevant certifications such as Red Hat Certified Systems Administrator (RHCSA), Linux Foundations Certified Systems Administrator (LFCS), GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), GIAC Certified Detection Analyst (GCDA), GIAC Public Cloud Security (GPCS), GIAC Cloud Forensics Responder (GCFR), CompTIA Cyber Security Analyst+ (CySA+), CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+), ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), ISC2 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (ECIH), EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Cisco Certified Network Professional - Security (CCNP Security), Microsoft Certified Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500), AWS Certified Security - Specialty, or Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer.

  • Experience writing detailed incident reports.

  • Experience with hypervisors (ESXI, Microsoft Hyper-V, etc.).

  • Active Directory administration and buildout experience.

  • Experience with backup software (VEEAM, Rubrik, Datto, Druva, Commvault, etc.).

  • Experience investigating cloud-based security incidents (AWS, O365, Google Workspace).

  • Experience managing and reviewing network hardware configurations (Firewalls, Switches, Routers).

  • Experience with identity and access management solutions (Okta, Duo, etc.).

  • Experience with digital forensics collection.

We expect the candidate to uphold Crowe's values of Care, Trust, Courage, and Stewardship. These values define who we are. We expect all of our people to act ethically and with integrity at all times.

The application deadline for this role is 10/31/2026.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Crowe is not sponsoring for work authorization at this time.

The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Crowe, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $86,100.00 - $170,500.00 per year.

Our Benefits:
Your exceptional people experience starts here. At Crowe, we know that great peopleare what makes a great firm. We care about our people and offer employees a comprehensive total rewards package. Learn more about what working at Crowe can mean for you!
How You Can Grow:
We will nurture your talent in an inclusive culture that values diversity. You will have the chance to meet on a consistent basis with your Career Coach that will guide you in your career goals and aspirations. Learn more about where talent can prosper!
More about Crowe:
Crowe (www.crowe.com) is one of the largest public accounting, consulting and technology firms in the United States. Crowe uses its deep industry expertise to provide audit services to public and private entities while also helping clients reach their goals with tax, advisory, risk and performance services. Crowe is recognized by many organizations as one of the country's best places to work. Crowe serves clients worldwide as an independent member of Crowe Global, one of the largest global accounting networks in the world. The network consists of more than 200 independent accounting and advisory services firms in more than 130 countries around the world.
Crowe LLP provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, national origin, disability or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Crowe LLP does not accept unsolicited candidates, referrals or resumes from any staffing agency, recruiting service, sourcing entity or any other third-party paid service at any time. Any referrals, resumes or candidates submitted to Crowe, or any employee or owner of Crowe without a pre-existing agreement signed by both parties covering the submission will be considered the property of Crowe, and free of charge.

Crowe will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws.

Please visit our webpage to see notices of the various state and local Ban-the-Box laws and Fair Chance Ordinances, where applicable.

We are committed to a merit-based hiring process, evaluating all candidates consistently using objective, job-related criteria such as relevant experience, demonstrated skills, measurable impact, and alignment with the role's responsibilities, and making employment decisions in a fair and inclusive manner free from discrimination.

If you are interested in applying for employment with Crowe and are in need of an accommodation or require special assistance to navigate our website or to complete your application, please visit our Applicant Assistance and Accommodations page for more information: https://careers.crowe.com/crowe-applicant-assistance-and-accommodation


Crowe logo

About Crowe

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Crowe (www.crowe.com) is one of the largest public accounting, consulting and technology firms in the United States. Crowe uses its deep industry expertise to provide audit services to public and private entities while also helping clients reach their goals with tax, advisory, risk and performance services. Crowe is recognized by many organizations as one of the country's best places to work. Crowe serves clients worldwide as an independent member of Crowe Global, one of the largest global accounting networks in the world. The network consists of more than 200 independent accounting and advisory services firms in more than 130 countries around the world.

Industry

Accounting services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

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