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Linux System Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Nwis

LINUX Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA

... Linux Systems Engineer. In this role you will perform production systems integration within a ... Experience scripting and developing system automation tools * Experience with log analysis ...

Cymertek

Linux System Administrator

Tysons, VA · On-site

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Linux Administrator, Systems Administrator, DevOps Engineer, Unix Administrator, IT Systems Engineer, Infrastructure Engineer, Cloud Systems Administrator, Server Administrator ...

Nightwing

LINUX Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

... Linux Systems Engineer. In this role you will perform production systems integration within a ... Experience scripting and developing system automation tools * Experience with log analysis ...

Andworx, LLC

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

RedHat Linux operating system, including implementation, administration, and troubleshooting skills ... Broad systems engineering or integration experience with emphasis in system design and integration.

Andworx, LLC

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

RedHat Linux operating system, including implementation, administration, and troubleshooting skills ... Broad systems engineering or integration experience with emphasis in system design and integration.

Entarian

Linux System Administrator

College Park, MD · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... system design, development, fielding, and sustainment of global NOAA IT needs. Position is on-site ... The Software Engineer II (Linux Administrator) must be able to support the following ...

Entarian

Linux System Administrator

College Park, MD

$60K - $65K/yr

... system design, development, fielding, and sustainment of global NOAA IT needs. Position is on-site ... The Software Engineer II (Linux Administrator) must be able to support the following ...

Entarian

Linux System Administrator

College Park, MD · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... system design, development, fielding, and sustainment of global NOAA IT needs. Position is on-site ... The Software Engineer II (Linux Administrator) must be able to support the following ...

The Midtown Group

Systems Engineer (Linux)

Leesburg, VA · On-site

... system upgrades • Monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and optimize reliability • ... Required : • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, or ...

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All JobsLinux System Engineer JobsLinux System Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Linux System Engineer information

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How much do linux system engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for linux system engineer in Washington, DC is $57.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.54 and $65.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectLinux System EngineerLinux Administrator
CertificationsLinux Professional Institute (LPIC), CompTIA Linux+LPIC, CompTIA Linux+
Work EnvironmentDesigns, develops, and implements Linux systems, often in complex or large-scale environmentsMaintains, monitors, and supports existing Linux systems in daily operations
ResponsibilitiesSystem architecture, scripting, troubleshooting, and optimizationSystem setup, user management, backups, and routine maintenance
Industry UsageIT, cloud services, data centers, enterprise solutionsIT support, network management, server administration

While both roles require Linux certifications and involve working with Linux systems, Linux System Engineers focus on designing and developing Linux infrastructure, whereas Linux Administrators handle daily maintenance and support tasks. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and complexity.

What are Linux System Engineers?

Linux System Engineers are IT professionals who specialize in designing, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting Linux-based computer systems and servers. They manage system configurations, install and update software, monitor system performance, and ensure security and reliability. These engineers often automate tasks using scripting languages like Bash or Python and may also configure networks, storage, and cloud environments. Their expertise is critical for organizations that rely on Linux infrastructure for web hosting, application deployment, or enterprise operations.

What are some typical challenges Linux System Engineers face when managing large-scale server infrastructures?

Linux System Engineers often encounter challenges related to maintaining system uptime, ensuring security, and managing configuration consistency across a large number of servers. Troubleshooting complex issues can require in-depth knowledge of Linux internals and scripting to automate repetitive tasks. Additionally, collaborating with development and operations teams to ensure smooth deployment of updates and new services is crucial, as is staying updated with rapid changes in open-source technologies.

What Does a Linux System Engineer Do?

As a Linux system engineer, your job duties include designing, implementing, troubleshooting, and monitoring programs created through the Linux system. You handle performance issues, ensure that the company has the proper network infrastructure, and develop new programs and tools for the company. You collaborate with team members to build applications that help others get the most out of the available infrastructure. A Linux system engineer also installs applications and uses software tools and IP network technologies to resolve issues and monitor program performance.

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

To thrive as a Linux System Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of Linux operating systems, scripting languages (such as Bash or Python), and experience with system administration or a related degree. Familiarity with configuration management tools (like Ansible or Puppet), virtualization platforms, cloud services, and relevant certifications (such as RHCE or CompTIA Linux+) is highly beneficial. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing complex systems and collaborating with technical teams. These abilities ensure reliability, security, and efficient operation of critical IT infrastructure.
More about Linux System Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux System Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Linux System Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux System Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Linux System Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux System Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Linux System Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Linux System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux System Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,995 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

LINUX Systems Engineer

Nwis

Sterling, VA

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Nightwing is seeking an analytical thinker who enjoys solving complex engineering problems while working with a close-nit team as a Linux Systems Engineer. In this role you will perform production systems integration within a cutting-edge Linux based virtualization stack, streamline and secure applications, storage, physical servers, and install, troubleshoot and maintain customer hardware. Our ideal candidate is detail-oriented and skilled at making data-driven decisions to proactively address issues before they impact end users.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

  • Manage the software, hardware, and systems on a Linux server
  • Design, build, and maintain core services and infrastructure
  • Install and monitor Linux operating systems
  • Implement security measures and identify potential issues
  • Update security settings for enterprise firewalls
  • Automate vulnerability and security patching
  • Participate in programming, scripting, and process automation
  • Design and manage backup and recovery strategies

Required Skills and Experience

  • 5+ years of hands-on Linux Systems Engineering experience
  • Specific experience in Python both with scripting and building applications
  • Specific experience using Bash for automating tasks and deploying software/services
  • Experience installing and configuring VPN services (openvpn/wireguard/ipsec), firewalls (netfilter/NFTables), and networks
  • Experience with information security frameworks such as disk encryption, PKI, Symmetric/Asymmetric encryption and digital certificates
  • Experience using observability tools and stack traces
  • Experience scripting and developing system automation tools
  • Experience with log analysis, monitoring, and alerting systems
  • Knowledge of TCP/IP addressing, routing, and troubleshooting
  • Knowledge of directory service principles such as organization units, and realm authentication
  • Familiarity with cloud provisioning
  • Knowledge of modern configuration management tooling - specifically Ansible and SaltStack
  • Minimum Secret Clearance with the ability to acquire a TS with SCI eligibility

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience specifically with Debian based distributions
  • Experience with virtual server implementation and management

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.


Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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