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Linux Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sr Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$107K - $147K/yr

In this role you will build, implement and maintain Linux based application systems in a developing DevOps culture. You will collaborate with other members of our team to ensure availability ...

Sr Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

In this role you will build, implement and maintain Linux based application systems in a developing DevOps culture. You will collaborate with other members of our team to ensure availability ...

Sr Devops Engineer

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$53.75 - $73.50/hr

PROJECT FOCUS: DevOps Lead TOP Required Skills: DevOps, Linux/Windows OS, Git, Azure Cloud, IaC, Bicep, Chef, Terraform, Ansible, CI/CD Required Skills : DevOps,Azure,Windows,Linux Basic ...

Linux Systems Administrator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY The person who fills this position will be responsible for installing, operating, and maintaining environments consisting of servers running Red Hat Enterprise Linux and VMware ESXi ...

We are seeking a highly motivated Software Engineer with a focus on Linux Simulation Application Development and a strong background in complex software application design, maintenance, and support.

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Linux Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$57

$88

How much do linux engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for linux engineer in Illinois is $57.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.59 and $65.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Linux Engineer vs System Administrator?

AspectLinux EngineerSystem Administrator
CredentialsLinux certifications (e.g., RHCE, CompTIA Linux+)IT certifications, often including Linux certifications
Work EnvironmentFocus on Linux systems, scripting, and automationManage overall IT infrastructure, including networks and servers
Employer & IndustryTech companies, data centers, cloud providersEnterprises, government agencies, organizations with IT infrastructure
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve working with Linux systems, a Linux Engineer specializes in designing, implementing, and maintaining Linux-based solutions, often with scripting and automation skills. A System Administrator manages a broader range of IT infrastructure, including networks, servers, and user support. The roles overlap in Linux knowledge but differ in scope and focus.

What is the average salary for a Linux engineer?

The average salary for a Linux engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as RHCE or CompTIA Linux+. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in cloud platforms and automation may earn higher salaries. Entry-level positions generally start around $60,000 per year.

What are Linux Engineers?

Linux Engineers are IT professionals who specialize in designing, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting Linux-based systems and servers. They work with open-source software and are responsible for system security, performance tuning, automation, and support. Linux Engineers often manage enterprise environments, help configure networks, and write scripts to automate repetitive tasks. Their expertise ensures the reliability and efficiency of systems that rely on the Linux operating system.

How does a Linux Engineer typically collaborate with development and IT teams on projects?

Linux Engineers work closely with both development and IT teams to ensure that server environments are robust, secure, and optimized for application deployment. Collaboration often involves participating in planning meetings, automating server provisioning, troubleshooting issues that span hardware and software, and implementing security best practices. Regular communication is essential, as Linux Engineers often bridge the gap between developers’ requirements and IT operational constraints. This teamwork helps streamline deployments, minimize downtime, and support continuous integration and delivery pipelines.

What Is a Linux Engineer?

A Linux engineer works to manage software, hardware, or a system on a Linux server. Network monitoring and server maintenance are basic job duties, but they also participate in programming, scripting, and process automation. Qualifications include programming experience, and a deep understanding of Linux as well as DNS, LDAP, and Java. A Linux engineer acquires qualifications or skills during formal education and internships.

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

To thrive as a Linux Engineer, you need a deep understanding of Linux operating systems, scripting languages like Bash or Python, and experience with system administration, typically supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications such as Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE). Familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet), virtualization platforms, and monitoring systems is also crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective teamwork, and clear communication set exceptional Linux Engineers apart. These skills are vital to ensure stable, secure, and efficient IT environments that meet organizational needs.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior Linux engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in areas like cloud infrastructure and cybersecurity can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with roles in large organizations, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior Linux engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like cloud computing, security, or high-performance systems, and relevant certifications such as RHCE or CISSP can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-cost-of-living regions or senior leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives in large organizations or tech companies.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Linux engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like cloud computing, security, or automation, and relevant certifications such as RHCE or AWS certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles often involve leadership responsibilities, complex system architecture, and working in large-scale or enterprise environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Linux Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Linux Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Linux Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Engineer jobs in IL? For Linux Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Architecture/Design/Development - Solutions Architect II

Futran Tech Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$85/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Description: This is a remote Role. Max rate is $85/hr.
Linux Engineering - Design and Architect, expert level, scripting, automation tooling, ansible, puppet, Troubleshoot all issues
VMware - Build, Administer and troubleshoot all issues
Additional Sills: Skills:
Category
Name
Required
Importance
Experience
Software Skills Linux Yes 1 6 + Years