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Junior Linux Administrator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Lead Classified Systems Administrator

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The successful candidate will be the team's Linux subject matter expert, responsible for ... Mentor and guide junior administrators, fostering technical growth and best practices across the ...

New

Classified Sr. Systems Administrator

Ann Arbor, MI

$84K - $114K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Provide guidance, mentorship, and training to junior team members, assisting in their professional ... Extensive experience with computer systems hardware, operating systems (Windows, Linux, Unix), and ...

New

Senior Systems Engineer

Okemos, MI · Hybrid

$94K - $129K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

We are one of the largest dental plan administrators in the country, and are part of the Delta ... Guides junior System Engineers, by offering technical assistance and support. * Participates in ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Okemos, MI · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

We are one of the largest dental plan administrators in the country, and are part of the Delta ... Guides junior System Engineers, by offering technical assistance and support. * Participates in ...

Junior Linux Administrator information

See Michigan salary details

$60.1K

$65.4K

$69.3K

How much do junior linux administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior linux administrator in Michigan is $65,369.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,200.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior Linux administrator?

Junior Linux Administrators are entry-level IT professionals responsible for supporting, maintaining, and troubleshooting Linux-based systems. They assist with system updates, user management, security configurations, and basic server administration tasks under the supervision of more experienced administrators. Their role is crucial for ensuring the smooth operation of Linux servers and services in organizations, often providing support for both hardware and software issues. Junior Linux Administrators typically work to gain hands-on experience and deepen their knowledge to advance to more senior positions.

What does a junior Linux administrator do?

The job duties of a junior Linux administrator revolve around working on day-to-day operations for Linux-based systems. Your responsibilities in this career may include working to build and configure applications; troubleshoot when network problems arise; install upgrades, new software, and fixes; and maintain existing systems. Junior administrators may perform network tuning activities to improve the efficiency of the current network. You may offer technical expertise to other members of the IT department or handle Linux scripting duties when required for the system. You usually work under the indirect management of a senior administrator.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior Linux administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Linux Administrator, you need a solid understanding of Linux operating systems, basic networking concepts, and scripting, often supported by a degree in IT or relevant certifications like CompTIA Linux+ or LPIC-1. Familiarity with command-line tools, server monitoring systems, and configuration management software such as Ansible or Puppet is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient system maintenance, quick troubleshooting, and reliable collaboration within IT teams to support organizational infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by junior Linux administrators during their initial months on the job?

Junior Linux Administrators often encounter challenges such as adapting to varied Linux distributions, troubleshooting unfamiliar system errors, and managing permissions securely. Learning to efficiently use command-line tools and scripting for automation can also be daunting at first. However, most organizations provide mentorship or team support, allowing junior admins to gradually build confidence and expertise while handling real-world server maintenance, updates, and user management tasks.

What is the difference between Junior Linux Administrator vs Linux System Administrator?

AspectJunior Linux AdministratorLinux System Administrator
CertificationsEntry-level certifications like Linux+ or LPIC-1Advanced certifications like LPIC-2, RHCSA, or RHCE
Work Experience0-2 years2+ years
ResponsibilitiesBasic server maintenance, user management, troubleshootingServer configuration, performance tuning, security management
Work EnvironmentEntry-level IT teams, support rolesMid-level IT teams, infrastructure management

The Junior Linux Administrator typically handles basic Linux server tasks with less experience and certifications, focusing on support and routine maintenance. In contrast, a Linux System Administrator has more experience, advanced certifications, and handles complex server configurations and security. The roles differ mainly in responsibility level and expertise required.

What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Administrator jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Linux Administrator jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Junior Linux Administrator jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Junior Linux Administrator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Linux Administrator jobs in MI?

For Junior Linux Administrator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Junior Linux Administrator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,369 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Lead Classified Systems Administrator

KBR

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Title:

Lead Classified Systems Administrator

KBR is a global leader in delivering technology-driven, mission-critical, and sustainable solutions that truly matter. For over a century, we have powered bold missions across defense, space, industry, and government through our two core business lines Mission Technology Solutions and Sustainable Technology Solutions. With nearly 38,000 talented people operating in more than 80 countries, we thrive on a culture built on safety, integrity, and teamwork. At KBR, we empower our people to solve the world's toughest challenges and create lasting value for communities and the planet. We don't just deliver results, we deliver game-changing solutions, innovative technology, deep domain expertise, and cutting-edge technologies.

KBR is seeking a Lead Classified Systems Administrator to join our Corporate IT team in Ann Arbor, MI. This position serves as the technical lead for a large, complex classified infrastructure with a significant focus on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) administration, security, and modernization. The successful candidate will be the team's Linux subject matter expert, responsible for maintaining, optimizing, troubleshooting, and securing mission-critical systems across a broad enterprise environment. In addition to providing technical leadership for Linux-based platforms, this role will guide infrastructure improvements, support integrated Windows services, mentor system administrators, and partner with cybersecurity, network, and engineering teams to deliver reliable, scalable, and secure solutions in a highly regulated environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the administration, maintenance, and optimization of enterprise systems, including servers, desktops, storage devices, and peripheral equipment
  • Serve as the technical lead and primary escalation point for complex system, infrastructure, and performance issues
  • Oversee OS and software upgrades, patching strategies, and lifecycle management to maintain a secure and compliant environment
  • Provide hands-on support for advanced troubleshooting across Windows, Linux, and integrated environments
  • Coordinate and prioritize team activities, ensuring timely execution of operational tasks and project deliverables
  • Design, implement, and lead infrastructure improvements, system enhancements, and modernization initiatives
  • Manage and validate backup, recovery, and disaster recovery processes to ensure business continuity
  • Monitor system performance, identify risks, and proactively implement security and optimization measures
  • Collaborate with network, cybersecurity, and IT support teams to support enterprise-wide initiatives and system integrations
  • Partner with vendors and third-party providers to resolve complex issues and support system enhancements
  • Provide clear communication and status updates to stakeholders, leadership, and customers
  • Develop, standardize, and improve system administration processes, procedures, and documentation
  • Mentor and guide junior administrators, fostering technical growth and best practices across the team

Basic Qualifications

Education & Experience:

  • B.S. Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Systems Engineering, or related field. Additional relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree
  • 8+ years of relevant experience, including 5+ years serving as a primary Linux Systems Administrator supporting large-scale enterprise or DoD environments.
  • Citizenship & Clearance:Must be a US Citizen. Must have a TS/SCI Clearance with a CI Polygraph or be able to obtain and maintain.
  • Certifications: Must have CompTIA Security+ CE, CISSP, or IAW DoD 8570 certifications

Technical Expertise:

  • Advanced hands-on Linux system administration experience, including Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), operating system lifecycle management, patching, security hardening, performance tuning, and troubleshooting in enterprise production environments.
  • Experience administering enterprise Linux environments, supporting mission-critical systems with responsibilities across deployment, maintenance, upgrades, and incident resolution.
  • Experience implementing and maintaining Linux security controls, including STIG compliance, vulnerability remediation, auditing, and system hardening in DoD or other regulated environments.
  • Experience with Linux scripting and automation tools such as Bash, Python, Ansible, or similar technologies used to streamline administration and configuration management.
  • Experience supporting integrated Windows environments, including Windows Server, Active Directory, and Group Policy.
  • Strong experience with virtualization technologies (VMware) and enterprise storage and backup solutions.
  • Proven ability to design, evaluate, and implement IT infrastructure solutions in complex environments.
  • Expertise in troubleshooting and resolving high-impact operating system, hardware, virtualization, and infrastructure issues.
  • Demonstrated expertise administering Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) in a large-scale enterprise environment. Candidates should possess deep experience with Linux troubleshooting, patch management, system security, performance tuning, and automation.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with cybersecurity hardening compliance tools such as STIG Viewer, SCAP Compliance Checker, and OpenSCAP
  • Familiarity with the DoD Risk Management Framework (RMF) and configuring systems for DoD Special Access Programs in accordance with JSIG requirements
  • Hands-on experience with machine virtualization, including transitioning legacy products to virtualized environments
  • Experience with vulnerability scanning tools and implementing mitigation strategies
  • Knowledge of advanced security practices and compliance standards in a government or defense IT environment
  • Prior experience leading small teams or projects with significant complexity and risk

Additional Compensation: KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short term incentives, long term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

Benefits: KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include a 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.


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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998