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Linux System Administrator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As a Linux Systems Operations and Administrator, you will be at the forefront of our Networking SW ... Diagnose and resolve system-level issues spanning hardware, firmware, power-on and boot processes ...

As a Linux Systems Operations and Administrator, you will be at the forefront of our Networking SW ... Diagnose and resolve system-level issues spanning hardware, firmware, power-on and boot processes ...

Linux Admin, vsphere, support, VMWare Duration: 16 months Contract Type: W2 only. No vendors agencies please. Responsibilities: This person will primarily support engineering operations systems and ...

As a Linux Systems Operations and Administrator, you will be at the forefront of our Networking SW ... Diagnose and resolve system-level issues spanning hardware, firmware, power-on and boot processes ...

Linux Cloud System Engineer Location: Santa Clara CA (Onsite) Duration: Long Term Main Skills ... Administer and manage VMware infrastructure including provisioning and resource optimization.

Systems Administration/System Engineer certification in Linux+, e.g., CompTIA Linux+, Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) preferred * Network ...

New

Systems Administration/System Engineer certification in Linux+, e.g., CompTIA Linux+, Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) preferred * Network ...

New

Systems Administration/System Engineer certification in Linux+, e.g., CompTIA Linux+, Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) preferred * Network ...

Systems Administration/System Engineer certification in Linux+, e.g., CompTIA Linux+, Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) preferred * Network ...

This role bridges system administration, automation engineering, and emerging AI-driven operations ... Analyze Linux servers and machines that fail established operational criteria after automated ...

Showing results 41-60

Linux System Administrator information

See California salary details

$20

$51

$74

How much do linux system administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for linux system administrator in California is $51.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.58 and $61.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Linux system administrator?

A Linux system administrator— or sysadmin—is an information technology professional who oversees the lifespan of Linux software installed on a server, computer, or other pieces of hardware, including network devices. As a Linux sysadmin, your responsibilities include software installation, day-to-day maintenance of applications, and an overall understanding of Linux operating systems. As part of the daily maintenance team, your job is to monitor system health and ensure that security patches are up-to-date, so that network systems perform well for business users.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Linux system administrator?

To thrive as a Linux System Administrator, you need a strong understanding of Linux operating systems, system troubleshooting, and networking, often supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications like CompTIA Linux+ or Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA). Familiarity with command-line interfaces, shell scripting, system monitoring tools, and configuration management systems like Ansible or Puppet is essential. Problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure reliable system performance, quick resolution of technical issues, and smooth collaboration within IT teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Linux system administrators when managing large-scale server environments?

Linux System Administrators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent configurations across numerous servers, ensuring security compliance, and minimizing downtime during updates or maintenance. Managing automation tools, such as Ansible or Puppet, and monitoring system performance are also critical aspects. Effective communication and collaboration with development and network teams are essential to quickly resolve issues and implement new technologies smoothly.

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

AspectLinux System AdministratorNetwork Administrator
CertificationsLinux+, LPIC, RHCSACompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentServers, data centers, cloud platformsNetworking hardware, routers, switches
ResponsibilitiesManaging Linux servers, scripting, securityConfiguring networks, troubleshooting connectivity
Industry UsageIT, hosting, cloud servicesTelecommunications, enterprise networks

While both roles involve IT infrastructure, a Linux System Administrator focuses on managing Linux servers and related software, whereas a Network Administrator specializes in maintaining and troubleshooting network hardware and connectivity. Both roles require specific certifications and are vital in ensuring smooth IT operations within organizations.

Are Linux System Administrators in high demand?

Linux System Administrators are in high demand due to the widespread use of Linux in servers, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Employers seek professionals with skills in scripting, networking, and system security, often requiring certifications like CompTIA Linux+ or RHCE.

How much do Linux system administrators make?

Linux system administrators typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in scripting, networking, or cloud platforms can earn higher salaries. Entry-level positions generally start around $50,000 to $70,000.

Is a Linux System Administrator a good job?

A Linux System Administrator is a valuable role responsible for managing and maintaining Linux-based servers and infrastructure. It often requires skills in scripting, networking, and security, and can offer stable employment with opportunities for certification and career growth.

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

The most popular types of Linux System Administrator jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Linux System Administrator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Linux System Administrator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Linux System Administrator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Linux System Administrator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Linux System Administrator jobs in CA?

For Linux System Administrator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Linux System Administrator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $106,664 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Linux Systems Administrator - Top Secret

Azusa, CA • On-site

Northrop Grumman
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 372 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.

Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. At the heart of Defining Possible is our commitment to missions.

In rapidly changing global security environments, Northrop Grumman brings informed insights and secure technological solutions to enable strategic objectives. We're looking for innovators who can help us keep building on our wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies that fuel those missions. By joining in our shared mission, we will support yours by expanding your personal network and developing skills, whether you are new to the field or an industry thought leader.

At Northrop Grumman, you will have the resources, support, and team to do some of the best work of your career. The Northrop Grumman Classified Solutions CIDO team is seeking a Computer Systems Analyst - Linux Systems Administrator to support information system lifecycle activities. The selected candidate will be required to work on-site, full-time at our Azusa, CA location.

The responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited to, the following: Perform as a Computer Systems Analyst - Linux in support of classified government contracts. Exhibits good communication skills, an energetic approach, and patience with customers. Establishes and maintains high levels of customer satisfaction according to defined objectives while adhering to established policies.

Report task statuses as required for all recurring and non-recurring efforts in written and oral format. Begin supporting working across disciplines to isolate issues between software, firmware, and hardware, between software and operating systems, between networks and applications, and between one-time events and recurrent systematic problems. Awareness of operations surrounding multi-user computer systems, including collaboration with network, software, and system engineers, PC desktop technicians.

Able to support multiple networks, under limited direction ensuring necessary administration tasks are completed following all security policies and procedures. Assist with installing, upgrading/patching, troubleshooting Linux systems, in support of configuration management. Provide assistance in maintaining backup and recovery services, manage Linux file systems and disk space, and manage virus protection on a routine basis.

Assist with testing of new product releases to ensure compatibility to minimize user impact. Follow documented technical processes and procedures as assigned. Assist with troubleshooting issues with vendors; evaluate vendor products, services, and suggestions.

Adhere to strict Information Systems security guidelines in all cases. Assist in maintaining security audit and logging information on all classified networked and standalone computers as directed by the Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM). Prepare documentation for input to Cybersecurity.

Support environments by means of ticketing requirements systems (ServiceNow, JIRA, etc.) Raises issues that require senior level attention or involvement. Lifts and moves equipment up to 50 pounds. Work after hours, and weekends, as needed

Note: Due to the classified nature of the work being performed, this position does not offer any virtual or telecommute working options. Applicants are encouraged to apply, only if they are willing to work on-site. Basic Qualifications: Master's Degree with 0 years of IT experience; OR a Bachelor's Degree with 2 years of IT experience; OR an Associate's Degree with 4 years of IT experience; OR a High School Diploma (or equivalent) with 6 years of IT experience is required Knowledge of Linux Server Operating Systems and workstation support is needed Candidates must meet the U.S.Government 8140 requirements (8570 equivalent) for a Linux Systems Administrator - IAT level II certification at a minimum (examples: Security+ CE, CND, CCNA Security, SSCP, GICSP, GSEC, CCISO) Candidates must have a current U.S

Government Top Secret level security clearance (at a minimum) in order to be considered Preferred Qualifications: 2 years with a Bachelor's degree 0 years with a Master's degree Active Secret, Top Secret, SCI, SAP/SAR access, or Polygraph Security+ CE certification Knowledge of NISPOM Chapter 8, DCID 6/3-ICD 503, RMF, STIG, JAFAN, or JSIG information system environments Understanding of basic networking Creation and deployment of system images in a LAN up to an enterprise environment Awareness of virtualization technologies Knowledge of environmental monitoring tools (HBSS/Solar Winds/Splunk) Limited experience in scripting Operating System Cross-platform awareness (i.e. two or more: Windows, Linux, Solaris, OSX, UNIX, etc.) Experience with Authorization& Accreditation process We offer flexible work arrangements, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. At Northrop Grumman, we are on the cutting edge of innovation

Our diverse portfolio of programs means there are endless paths to cultivate your career. We also offer exceptional benefits/healthcare, a 9/80 work schedule, and a great 401k matching program. Come join us.

Primary Level Salary Range: $83,400.00 - $125,200.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results

Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date.

However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO

U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.


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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939