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Lead Linux Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ValidaTek

Linux Administrator

Pensacola, FL · On-site

Lead OS patching, updates, and antivirus definition deployments using Red Hat Satellite in strict ... Extensive experience with Linux systems administration, with a heavy focus on Red Hat Enterprise ...

ValidaTek, Inc.

Linux Administrator

Pensacola, FL

$70K - $115K/hr

Lead OS patching, updates, and antivirus definition deployments using Red Hat Satellite in strict ... Extensive experience with Linux systems administration, with a heavy focus on Red Hat Enterprise ...

Electrosoft

Linux Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Lead and mentor junior team members. * Troubleshoot and resolve LAN/WAN connectivity and ... experience with Linux/UNIX systems and interoperability with Windows. * Current Red Hat ...

Cadence

Lead Red Hat Linux Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

They are seeking a seasoned Lead Red Hat Linux Architect to modernize their enterprise infrastructure into a scalable, secure, and cloud-native platform, focusing on Red Hat Enterprise Linux and ...

Spruce Infotech Inc

Linux Architect

Dallas, TX

Required Skills/Experience: Sr. Level Linux Engineer Experience focusing on Server Builds Lead Automation efforts for Linux within virtual server builds and capacity management Good knowledge about ...

Crusoe

Senior Software Engineer, Networking

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

... • Lead Linux Kernel and driver development, system architecture design, production support, and cross-functional collaboration. Qualifications : Required : • 4+ years of related experience ...

CompTech Computer Technologies

OR

Previous experience serving as a technical lead or mentoring junior administrators. Preferred Skills * Linux system performance tuning * Enterprise application support * Root cause analysis * Network ...

New

Bowhead

Linux SME

Corona, CA · On-site

The Senior Linux & OpenShift Systems Administrator reports to the Program Manager or IT Lead. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or ...

CompTech Computer Technologies

Linux Administrator

Previous experience serving as a technical lead or mentoring junior administrators. Preferred Skills * Linux system performance tuning * Enterprise application support * Root cause analysis * Network ...

New

Electrosoft

Linux Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Lead and mentor junior team members. * Troubleshoot and resolve LAN/WAN connectivity and ... experience with Linux/UNIX systems and interoperability with Windows. * Current Red Hat ...

Point72

Linux Security Lead

New York, NY · On-site

... Linux Security Lead, you will own and drive a consistent and enforceable security posture across the firm's Linux fleet - building enforceable baselines, automated drift detection, and verified ...

Point72

Linux Security Lead

New York, NY · On-site

... Linux Security Lead, you will own and drive a consistent and enforceable security posture across the firm's Linux fleet - building enforceable baselines, automated drift detection, and verified ...

eTeam

Linux Engineer

Responsibilities : • Linux systems implementation • Full IT system lifecycle administration ... to lead deployment of secure and compliant systems and services on-prem and in the cloud • ...

Electrosoft

Linux Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

... Lead and mentor junior team members. • Troubleshoot and resolve LAN/WAN connectivity and ... Linux/UNIX systems and interoperability with Windows. • Current Red Hat certification (e.g ...

TIER4 GROUP

Linux System Administrator

Natick, MA · Hybrid

Lead and contribute to the development and implementation of our Linux Endpoint Management strategy. * Collaborate with Platform Engineering to define scope, requirements, and strategies for managing ...

Peraton

Enterprise Linux Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Lead integration efforts for new technologies and products, including container orchestration ... Represent Linux operations to customer management, application owners, and senior stakeholders

New

ARSIEM Corporation

Lab Manager III

Arlington, VA · On-site

Responsibilities : • Serve as a lead Linux Systems Administrator overseeing Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) environments across development, lab, and production systems. • Perform large-scale ...

Peraton

Enterprise Linux Engineer

Washington, DC

$112K - $179K/yr

Lead integration efforts for new technologies and products, including container orchestration ... Represent Linux operations to customer management, application owners, and senior stakeholders

New

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All JobsLead Linux Jobs

Lead Linux information

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$36K

$81.2K

$156K

How much do lead linux jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead linux in the United States is $81,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Lead Linux Administrator and how can they be addressed?

A Lead Linux Administrator often encounters challenges such as managing complex system architectures, ensuring high availability, and coordinating with cross-functional teams. Keeping systems secure and up-to-date while minimizing downtime requires strong planning and communication skills. Proactively setting up robust monitoring tools, automating routine tasks, and fostering clear communication between developers, security, and operations teams can help address these challenges. Additionally, staying current with the latest Linux distributions and best practices is crucial for success in this role.

What are Lead Linux Engineers?

Lead Linux Engineers are senior IT professionals responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of Linux-based systems within an organization. They lead a team of engineers, set technical direction, and ensure system reliability and security. Their role often includes troubleshooting complex issues, automating processes, mentoring junior staff, and collaborating with other departments to support business objectives. Lead Linux Engineers are expected to have deep expertise in Linux operating systems, scripting, cloud platforms, and modern IT best practices.

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

AspectLead LinuxLinux System Administrator
CertificationsOften requires Linux certifications (e.g., RHCE, CompTIA Linux+), leadership experienceTypically requires Linux certifications, focus on system management skills
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, strategic planningMaintains and supports Linux systems, performs troubleshooting
ResponsibilitiesOversees Linux infrastructure, mentors staff, implements policiesInstalls, configures, monitors Linux servers, handles daily operations

While both roles require Linux certifications and technical expertise, Lead Linux positions focus on leadership, project management, and strategic oversight, whereas Linux System Administrators concentrate on hands-on system maintenance and support. The Lead Linux role is ideal for those with experience in team management and planning, while Linux System Administrators are more involved in technical execution.

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

To thrive as a Lead Linux Engineer, you need expert knowledge of Linux system administration, scripting, networking, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with configuration management tools (like Ansible or Puppet), virtualization platforms, cloud services, and certifications such as RHCE or LFCS are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, leadership, and effective communication help you guide teams and coordinate with stakeholders. These skills ensure reliable, secure, and efficient Linux environments that support critical business operations.
More about Lead Linux jobs
What job categories do people searching Lead Linux jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Linux jobs are:
Lead Linux jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Linux job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,196 per year, or $39 per hour.
Linux Administrator

Linux Administrator

ValidaTek

Pensacola, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Company Overview:
At ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our success starts and ends with our people, so we built a company where great people can do great things, with the resources and autonomy to make decisions that transform organizations. We operate as one team of diverse people, united by a passion for continuous growth and optimization. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation. www.validatek.com
Summary:
ValidaTek is seeking a reliable and highly skilled 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.
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.

Qualifications:
  • 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.
  • 3+ 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.

Salary Disclosure:
Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, geographic location, contract affordability, internal equity, education, and certifications.
The upper end of the salary range may be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated tenure with the company, seniority, and proven excellent performance. This includes factors such as education, certifications, and extensive/unique experience beyond what is required.
EEO Statement:
ValidaTek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to verify authorization to work in the United States.
Offers of employment will be contingent upon passing a post-offer background check.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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