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Entry Level Linux System Administrator Jobs in Santa Fe, NM

HII Nuclear Inc.

System Administrator 2

Los Alamos, NM · On-site

Systems Administrator duties and responsibilities include the following: Tasks include designing ... Ideal candidate will also have experience with Linux. Candidate will be able to troubleshoot ...

All JobsLinux System Administrator JobsEntry Level Linux System Administrator JobsEntry Level Linux System Administrator Jobs in Santa Fe, NM

Entry Level Linux System Administrator information

See Santa Fe, NM salary details

$20

$51

$74

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level linux system administrator in Santa Fe, NM is $51.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.34 and $61.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level Linux system administrator do?

An entry-level Linux system administrator focuses on the maintenance and optimization of the network of an organization or business running on the Linux operating system. Your primary duties in this career involve maintaining software instead of hardware. Your responsibilities also include keeping it up to date with the latest updates and ensuring its security against hackers. Training new users is often a part of your job as well. Individuals in this position provide support to a senior team member and technical help for others. Opportunities exist in a myriad of industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level Linux system administrator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Linux System Administrator, you need a solid understanding of Linux operating systems, basic networking, and scripting fundamentals, typically backed by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with command-line interfaces, shell scripting, and tools like SSH, as well as certifications such as CompTIA Linux+ or LPIC-1, are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate technical information clearly help you excel in this role. These skills ensure reliable system performance, efficient troubleshooting, and effective collaboration in IT environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level Linux system administrators, and how can they prepare for them?

Entry level Linux system administrators often face challenges such as troubleshooting unfamiliar issues, managing time effectively during multiple support requests, and understanding the complexities of different Linux distributions. To prepare, it's helpful to build a strong foundation in command-line tools, practice reading system logs, and familiarize yourself with common administrative tasks like user management and system updates. Collaborating with more experienced team members and actively participating in documentation and knowledge sharing can also accelerate learning and confidence in the role.

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

AspectEntry Level Linux System AdministratorLinux Support Technician
CertificationsLinux+, LPIC-1Linux+, CompTIA A+
Work EnvironmentData centers, server rooms, cloud environmentsHelp desks, technical support centers
ResponsibilitiesServer setup, maintenance, user managementIssue troubleshooting, user support, software installation
Industry UsageIT companies, hosting providers, cloud services

The Entry Level Linux System Administrator focuses on managing Linux servers and infrastructure, while the Linux Support Technician primarily handles end-user support and troubleshooting. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in daily tasks and work environments, with the administrator working more on backend systems and the technician providing front-line support.

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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Linux System Administrator jobs in Santa Fe, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Linux System Administrator jobs in Santa Fe, NM are:

Entry Level Linux System Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Linux System Administrator job openings in Santa Fe, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,094 per year, or $51 per hour.

System Administrator 2

HII Nuclear Inc.

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

While working to achieve N3B LLCC objectives, will ensure all activities and operations are performed in a safe and deliberate manner; will maintain required safety, security and operational training; assure procedural and regulatory compliance; and make safety, security and quality an integral part of every task; including taking the necessary steps to stop work if continuing the job is unsafe or compromises security.


Systems Administrator duties and responsibilities include the following:

Tasks include designing, implementing, and troubleshooting highly available servers dedicated to Active Directory, DNS, e-mail and communications solutions and supporting Windows-based server hardware and software including general maintenance, upgrades and disaster recovery. Ideal candidate will also have experience with Linux. Candidate will be able to troubleshoot complex problems and work under stressful conditions with rigorous time constraints. Candidate must be able to work in a collaborative environment on multifaceted projects. This position requires constant attention to policies and procedures as required by the business.



  • Support and maintain Windows 2012R2 servers



  • Support and maintain key backup, deduplication, and log consolidation technologies



  • Participate in implementing system security patches and software/firmware/system upgrades



  • Implement and support large, complex VMWare/ESX environments



  • Manages day-to-day operations of the virtualized server environment to include monitoring system performance, configuration management, maintenance, patching, scripting, troubleshooting, and repair/recover.



  • Manages day-to-day administration of Active Directory including: creating, modifying, removing Windows security groups, file shares, folders, and file permissions.



  • Manages day-to-day enterprise messaging environments including: creating, modifying, or deleting of; mailboxes, distribution lists, mail contacts, and transport rules.



  • Manages day-to-day operations of the VMware hypervisor and VDI environments including maintaining availability, ensuring security patches are applied, and maintaining base system images.



  • Installs and manages host computer operating systems, disk arrays, Ethernet switches, tape libraries, and other components.



  • Ensures high availability and acceptable levels of performance of mission critical host computer resources.



  • Develops procedures and documentation to support the server infrastructure environment.



  • Stays current with technological developments in systems administration technology by attending seminars, training or forums and recommends ways to take advantage of new technology.



  • Contribute to and maintain security standards and system integrity.



  • Research and recommend innovative, and where possible automated approaches for system administration tasks.



  • Enforce and comply with change management processes




  • Current Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification

  • Preferred VMware Certified Professional (VCP)




  • One or more of the following additional certifications: CompTIA Security+, SANS GIAC Security Essentials, CCNA, or COMPTIA Network+.; Preferred.



  • All qualified applicants will be considered; however, the successful candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a Q clearance from the United States Department of Energy.




Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:



  • Skilled working within a Microsoft Active Directory-based enterprise environment regulated by security baselines (DoD DISA STIGs) and protections.



  • Preferred experience with: Veeam Backup software, Ivanti , SolarWinds, VMWARE View and VSphere, APC Netbotz, MS Exchange, Centrify Identity Service, or RSA



  • Experience in cloud environments



  • Must be proficient with Windows Server 2012 and Active Directory




  • Effective interpersonal skills (e.g., ability to work as part of a team, communicate effectively, work/interact effectively and amicably with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures and with diverse personal attributes).

  • Effective communication skills (i.e., ability to present ideas effectively in formal and informal situations and convey thoughts clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing).



Education


Bachelors' degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or a related discipline combined with at least 2 years of System Administration experience; however, a combination of education and relevant experience wherein the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the position’s duties and responsibilities have been adequately demonstrated is acceptable. The job level will be determined based upon relevant education, knowledge, skills, and abilities demonstrated at the time of the interview.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements (Sedentary Work):

Sedentary Work Category – The employee exerts up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to touch or feel, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate.

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; and nothing in this herein restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and we do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status or age.