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Linux Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Linux System Administrator

Boston, MA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Linux System Administrator to support the Sea Based X-Band Radar, (XBR) program ... The team is composed of a multi-disciplinary group of 25 field engineers working collaboratively ...

Test Automation Technical Leader - eLxr Linux

Boston, MA · On-site

$50 - $66/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

We are expanding our core engineering team and seeking a highly experienced Linux Test Automation Technical Leader to join the eLxr development teams. YOUR ROLE In this role, you will lead the ...

Test Automation Technical Leader - eLxr Linux

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$50 - $66/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

We are expanding our core engineering team and seeking a highly experienced Linux Test Automation Technical Leader to join the eLxr development teams. YOUR ROLE In this role, you will lead the ...

Provide support of the infrastructure by performing administrative functions of Linux/RedHat (hardware and software) to include vendor supported tools, support of IBM standard tools and maintain ...

Showing results 41-60

Linux Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$11

$64

$99

How much do linux engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for linux engineer in Boston, MA is $64.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.21 and $72.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

Is it hard to get a Linux engineer job?

Securing a Linux engineer position typically requires strong knowledge of Linux systems, scripting, and networking, along with relevant certifications like RHCE or CompTIA Linux+. Competition can vary based on location and experience, but building practical skills and experience through projects or internships can improve job prospects.

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 the most commonly searched types of Linux Engineer jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Linux Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Linux Engineer jobs in Boston, MA?

For Linux Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Linux Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Linux Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Linux Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 81% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,982 per year, or $64.9 per hour.

Senior Linux Systems Administrator

MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Lexington, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Tactical Autonomy Group develops and delivers AI-enabled autonomy and robotic systems where it counts - at the tactical edge. As an FFRDC, we combine academic depth in algorithms, controls, and machine learning, the execution speed of industry, and direct mission pull from operational end-users to solve problems others can’t. We don’t stop at papers: we design, build, integrate, field-test, and transition autonomy stacks - spanning perception, decision-making, learning, and control—into real operations across the DoD and Intelligence Community.

Position Description

Our group seeks a Senior Linux Systems Administrator to become part of a team that builds and maintains IT computing and network infrastructure in an unclassified/classified environment and provides end-user support as needed. The candidate must possess a strong understanding of Linux system administration, network fundamentals, and security/compliance practices, and have the experience (or strong desire) to work in a research and development environment. The candidate must be team-oriented, have strong communication skills, and be able to work independently to develop practical IT solutions that enhance productivity and reliability of computing resources. The candidate must also be comfortable supporting technical end users and working with classified information in a closed area.

This position is full time onsite (40 hours/week) and may require some travel to field offices within the U.S.

Roles and responsibilities
  • Support installation, maintenance, repair, and upgrade of Linux compute and network equipment
  • Administer and support Linux-based systems (workstations and servers) in both unclassified and classified environments
  • Build, configure, harden, monitor, and troubleshoot Linux systems across varying research needs and constraints
  • Review and test new hardware and software and make recommendations for purchases and standardization
  • Help design and implement configuration management and monitoring for systems and networks
  • Assist in configuration of network devices such as routers and switches
  • Provide technical support for staff and back-end system users; handle Tier 2/3 issues as needed
  • Manage identity, access, and authentication integrations as required (e.g., LDAP/Kerberos/SSSD; AD integration where applicable)
  • Support and maintain core services commonly used in Linux environments (e.g., DNS, DHCP, NFS, SSH, Samba)
  • Apply security best practices and compliance requirements (e.g., DISA STIGs, vulnerability remediation, audit readiness)
  • Provide as-needed Windows OS, file storage and application support
  • Collaborate with other personnel throughout the organization to enhance technology and support practices
Minimum Qualifications
  • BS and 6+ years of experience in Linux Systems Administration (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
  • Excellent knowledge of Linux OS administration: installation, configuration, monitoring, patching, performance tuning, and troubleshooting
  • Experience administering common Linux distributions (e.g., Ubuntu, RHEL, etc.)
  • Experience working in a classified computing environment
  • Experience installing, configuring, and operating network services such as DNS, DHCP, NFS, SSH, Samba, and directory services integrations (e.g., LDAP/Kerberos/SSSD; AD integration a plus)
  • Demonstrated experience securing Linux systems using DISA STIGs and/or comparable hardening baselines
  • Experience performing vulnerability scanning, configuration assessment, remediation, and documenting compliance evidence
  • Scripting/automation skills (e.g., Bash, Python) and familiarity with automation/config tools (e.g., Ansible, Salt, Puppet, etc.)
  • Familiarity with log collection/monitoring tooling and concepts (e.g., syslog, audit logs, endpoint monitoring)
  • Familiarity with Windows Operating Systems and Active Directory Identity Management
  • Familiarity with Network Attached Storage (NAS) file storage solutions and their troubleshooting
  • Understanding of RMF policies and DoD Directive 8570 / 8140 expectations
  • Possess a DoD 8570.01-M IAM I baseline certification or be able to obtain one within 6 months of hire
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills

Hiring Range: $114,600 - $151,900

Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including—but not limited to—the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate’s experience, skills and education/training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements. This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits.

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include: 

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
  • MIT-funded pension
  • Matching 401K
  • Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
  • Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
  • Mentorship programs
  • A range of work-life balance options
  • ... and much more!  

Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks.

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.

Requisition ID: 43144 

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