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Linux Security Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

E*Pro, Inc.

Linux Admin

Sterling, VA

Work with Linux security tools, including mod_security, iptables, & Nessus scan engine. * Provide on-call support advice and technical support to various users/clients regarding operational ...

Actalent

Cyber Security Engineer

Manassas, VA

The position offers significant exposure to Red Hat-based Linux security, container security, and enterprise security frameworks, with the opportunity to influence security practices across a large ...

Actalent

Cyber Security Engineer

Manassas, VA

The position offers significant exposure to Red Hat-based Linux security, container security, and enterprise security frameworks, with the opportunity to influence security practices across a large ...

Actalent

Cyber Security Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

They are seeking a Cybersecurity Engineer to support system-level security initiatives across multiple Navy Submarine subsystems, focusing on Linux-based platforms and containerized environments.

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Linux Security information

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$5

$48

How much do linux security jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for linux security in Virginia is $47.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.64 and $47.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Linux Security role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Linux Security role, you need a solid understanding of Linux operating systems, cybersecurity principles, and network security, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as SELinux, iptables, intrusion detection systems (e.g., Snort), and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for identifying threats and working collaboratively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for proactively protecting systems, mitigating risks, and maintaining a secure IT environment.

Is Linux still in demand?

Linux security professionals are in high demand due to the widespread use of Linux in servers, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Skills in Linux system administration, scripting, and security tools like SELinux or firewalls enhance job prospects, and certifications such as CompTIA Linux+ or CISSP can improve employability.

Can you make $200,000 in cyber security?

In Linux security roles, earning $200,000 or more is possible for experienced professionals with advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, with senior positions and specialized skills often commanding higher pay. Continuous learning and certifications like CISSP or OSCP can enhance earning potential.

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

AspectLinux SecurityLinux System Administrator
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Linux Security CertificationsCompTIA Linux+, LPIC-1, Linux+
Work EnvironmentFocus on security protocols, vulnerability management, and threat mitigationManage overall system setup, maintenance, user management, and performance
Employer & Industry UsageCybersecurity firms, IT security teams, organizations with high security needsIT departments, hosting providers, enterprise environments

Linux Security specialists focus on protecting Linux systems from threats, implementing security measures, and managing vulnerabilities. Linux System Administrators handle the broader management of Linux systems, including installation, configuration, and maintenance. While both roles require Linux knowledge, Linux Security emphasizes security-specific skills, whereas Linux System Administration covers overall system management.

What is Linux Security?

Linux Security refers to the set of practices, tools, and configurations used to protect Linux operating systems from unauthorized access, vulnerabilities, malware, and other cyber threats. It involves managing user permissions, configuring firewalls, applying security patches, and monitoring system activity. Linux security professionals also implement measures such as SELinux, AppArmor, and intrusion detection systems to safeguard data and maintain system integrity.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

In cybersecurity roles such as Linux security specialists, earning $500,000 annually is possible but typically requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and senior-level positions in large organizations or consulting firms. High salaries are often associated with leadership roles, specialized skills, or working in high-demand sectors like finance or government. Most professionals in entry- to mid-level positions earn significantly less than this amount.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Linux Security roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Linux Security often face challenges such as keeping systems up-to-date against emerging vulnerabilities, managing user permissions securely, and ensuring compliance with security policies across diverse environments. Regular patch management, proactive monitoring, and automation tools are essential for addressing these issues effectively. Additionally, strong collaboration with system administrators and DevOps teams helps streamline incident response and maintain a secure infrastructure.

Is 40 too old for cyber security?

Age is not a barrier to pursuing a career in Linux security or cybersecurity in general. Many professionals successfully transition into cybersecurity roles at various ages, often bringing valuable experience and skills. Continuous learning, certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, and staying current with industry tools are important regardless of age.
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Security jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Linux Security jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Security jobs in Virginia? For Linux Security jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Security jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Security jobs in Virginia are:
Linux Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Security job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,142 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Linux System Administrator with Security Clearance

Linux System Administrator with Security Clearance

By Light Professional IT Services

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

By Light Professional IT Services LLC readies warfighters and federal agencies with technology and systems engineered to connect, protect, and prepare individuals and teams for whatever comes next. Headquartered in McLean, VA, By Light supports defense, civilian, and commercial IT customers worldwide. Position Overview By Light has an opening for a Sr. Systems Administrator (Linux/Unix) position supporting the Army National Guard (ARNG) in Falls Church, VA. This is an IT Service Management contract in support of the operation, modernization, expansion, and further evolution of the ARNG's global Information Technology (IT) services including networking, compute, storage, infrastructure, applications, hosting, and program management services. The GECOS program supports the ARNG enterprise IT infrastructure, its Wide Area Network (WAN), authentication and directory services, cybersecurity, application hosting, and associated services. GECOS uses ITIL best practices framework as the basis for IT Service Management (ITSM) model. Three (3) days onsite with up to two (2) days telework. Onboarding/transition in period requires on-site support up to 60 days. GECOS work schedules are subject to change on direction by mission requirements. Responsibilities * Provide system administration support for Linux operating systems including installing software, applying patches, managing file systems, monitoring performance, and troubleshooting alerts from monitoring tools.
* Analyzes and resolves problems associated with the operating system, servers, hardware, and applications software.
* Detects, diagnoses, and reports related problems on servers, including system failure analysis and recovery, insuring the consistency and integrity of file systems.
* In-depth hardware configuration knowledge, shell programming expertise, and a solid understanding of standard concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals, performs a variety of tasks, and works under general supervision.
* Responsible for daily monitoring of interface programs between multiple enterprise systems; review daily logs and ensure successful completion.
* Perform incremental and full cold backups/patching.
* Responsible for DoD Linux Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs).
* Provide performance metrics and usage charts, including CPU usage, disk usage and network uptime for the Linux Servers.
* Provide general maintenance, upgrades, and new installation of servers and coordinate with data center personnel to execute. Document and generate business processes for day-to-day and emergency support procedures.
* Install, test, and verify Linux Security patches; coordinating, documenting requirements and timelines, and working closely with service owners.
* Perform systems security administration functions, including creation and maintenance of customer profiles and accounts.
* Responsible for creating and/or maintaining standard operating procedures for the Linux documentation library.
* Implement, configure, update, and maintain Ansible servers and scripts.
* Implement, configure, update, and maintain STIG Manager servers and scripts.
* Implement, configure, update, and maintain the Linux operating system firewall.
* Experience in handling NFS, CIFS, and SMB permissions. Required Experience/Qualifications * High school diploma or AA. Preferred - Bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science or a related technical discipline, or the equivalent combination of education, technical certifications or training, or work experience.
* 6+ years of overall demonstrated experience as a RHEL 7 and/or RHEL 8 Servers
* Must Possess the appropriate baseline certification(s) to achieve DoD 8570.01-M Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level II (CompTIA Security+ ce) and additional Computing Environment (CE) certification (RHEL7 and/or RHEL 8) When 8140 requirements are implemented on program/contract, employee will need to conform to 8140 certification standards
* Experience managing RHEL 7 and RHEL 8 Linux servers
* Highly versed in Linux administration and best practices
* Familiar with enterprise network architectures
* Experience with automated configuration management (Ansible, Puppet, Chef, etc.)
* Familiar in programming/scripting skills for automation (Bash, Ruby, Python, Perl, etc.)
* General understanding of Linux internals (system calls, file systems, processes, etc.)
* General understanding of TCP/IP and related protocols (HTTP, FTP, NFS, etc.)
* Experience with PowerShell scripting engine to automate tasks.
* Excellent problem solving, analytical, and decision-making capabilities, including understanding user requirements, troubleshooting technical issues, successfully resolving issues and challenges, and developing creative solutions for process improvement.
* Dependability, in that the individual is consistently at work and on time, follows instructions, responds to management direction, and solicits feedback to improve.
* Must have customer service experience as this position will require candidate to engage with senior military and government leadership.
* Must be able to present your ideas clearly through briefings, meetings, and interaction with leadership of different skill sets.
* Must be able to provide training sessions as required.
* Must be able to engage with stakeholders to ensure tasks are progressing and meeting timelines.
* Excellent communication skills
* Excellent documentation skills
* Strong organizational and collaborative skills
* Strong teamwork and engagement as a project team member.
* Ability to assimilate information rapidly, motivated to self-study new requirements.
* Maintain current industry knowledge of relevant concepts, practices, and procedures.
* Ability to work under time constraints.
* Adapt to changes in requirements and new projects.
* Manage or serve as a team lead.
* Maintain and upgrade certifications.
* Other duties may be assigned, directed, or requested. Special Requirements/Security Clearance * Must have a minimum of an active Secret clearance at time of interview and candidate must maintain active clearance. Salary Range Salary Minimum: $90,000 Salary Maximum: $120,000 The annual base salary provided is a guideline for this position and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. When extending an offer, By Light also considers other variables such as (but not limited to) work experience, education, training, skill set, internal peer equity, clearance level, and market conditions. In addition, By Light provides an extensive selection of benefits and offerings to our employees.

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