Independent Contractor Linux Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Responsibilities:

• 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.