Intern Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Job Location: US-MD-Silver Spring

Requisition ID: 2026-164894

Position Category: Information Technology

Clearance: Top Secret/SCI

Peraton is seeking a Linux Systems Administrator with an active TS/SAP clearance to join our team supporting mission‑critical operations. The ideal candidate will manage, maintain, and enhance secure Linux‑based environments while ensuring uptime and performance for essential applications. The candidate will work closely with the IA team supporting Continuous Monitoring tasks, enforcing cybersecurity compliance, and addressing vulnerabilities identified through Nessus scans. This role involves configuring and maintaining Linux servers and desktops, implementing security mitigations, and ensuring compliance with government standards.

• Continuous Monitoring & Vulnerability Mitigation
  • Perform continuous monitoring of systems using vulnerability scanning tools like Tenable Nessus.
  • Identify and analyze vulnerabilities from weekly and monthly scans.
  • Mitigate identified vulnerabilities by reconfiguring Linux servers and desktops or applying patches, security updates, and configuration changes.
  • Track, document, and report vulnerability remediation activities to ensure ongoing compliance with Risk Management Framework (RMF) or Intelligence Community standards.
• Linux System Administration
  • Deploy, configure, maintain, and secure Linux‑based servers and desktops (RHEL, CentOS, Ubuntu).
  • Configure networking services such as DNS, DHCP, and NFS.
  • Manage user accounts, permissions, and authentication in compliance with security policies.
  • Harden systems using existing guidelines such as Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) or custom configurations.
  • Apply and test kernel updates, package upgrades, and security patches in production and development environments.
  • Monitor Linux systems for performance, security, and availability, resolving issues proactively.
  • Implement and maintain system backup and disaster recovery procedures.
  • Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to support system integration and deployment efforts.
  • Stay current with technological advancements and recommend improvements as necessary.
• Automation and Process Improvement
  • Develop and maintain shell scripts or automation tools (Bash, Python, etc.) to streamline administrative and cybersecurity tasks.
  • Implement and manage automated patching and vulnerability remediation via tools like Ansible, Puppet, or Chef.
• Documentation & Auditing
  • Maintain detailed system configuration documentation.
  • Document vulnerability findings, mitigations, and resolutions in tickets or compliance reports.
  • Support security audits by providing technical information and collaborating with the Information Assurance teams.
• Collaboration
  • Work closely with the Information Assurance (IA) and Cybersecurity teams to ensure systems meet security requirements.
  • Collaborate with network administrators and application teams to integrate Linux environments supporting enterprise solutions.

Required Qualifications:

• Active TS w/ SCI eligibility
• 5 years with BS/BA or 3 years with MS/MA degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• 3-5+ years of experience managing Linux environments in classified, secure settings.
• Proficiency with Linux operating systems (Ubuntu, RedHat), package management, and scripting skills in Bash, Python, or similar languages for automation.
• Understanding of system security requirements in DoD or Intelligence domains (e.g., STIGs, RMF).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with virtualization technologies (KVM, Red Hat, Proxmox).
• Familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet, Chef).
• Knowledge of containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Certifications: Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), ITIL, or equivalent.

$86,000 - $138,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.