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Linux System Programmer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Linux System Administrator

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

The Linux System Administrator will work within a team engineers, developers and system administrators, adding new capabilities to our enclaves, as well as ensuring the existing systems are secure ...

Leidos

Linux System Administrator

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

The Linux System Administrator will work within a team engineers, developers and system administrators, adding new capabilities to our enclaves, as well as ensuring the existing systems are secure ...

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Linux System Programmer information

What is a Linux system programmer?

A Linux System Programmer is a software developer who specializes in designing, developing, and maintaining system-level software that interacts directly with the Linux operating system. They work on operating system kernels, device drivers, system utilities, and other low-level components essential for hardware and application software to function efficiently on Linux platforms. Their work often involves using programming languages like C and C++, understanding Linux internals, and optimizing performance and security at the system level.

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

To thrive as a Linux System Programmer, you need a deep understanding of C/C++ programming, operating system concepts, and Linux internals, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like GCC, GDB, Make, Git, and experience with kernel modules or system calls are commonly required, and certifications such as the Linux Foundation Certified Engineer can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively make someone stand out in this role. These abilities are essential for developing reliable, efficient system software and ensuring robust, secure Linux environments.

How does a Linux system programmer typically collaborate with other teams during the software development lifecycle?

Linux System Programmers frequently work alongside software engineers, DevOps teams, and QA specialists to design, implement, and optimize system-level components. Collaboration often involves reviewing kernel patches, troubleshooting low-level bugs, and ensuring system stability across different environments. Effective communication is crucial, as programmers must translate complex technical issues for non-specialist teams and work together to integrate new features or improvements. Participating in code reviews and contributing to technical documentation are also routine parts of the job.

What is the difference between Linux System Programmer vs Linux Kernel Developer?

AspectLinux System ProgrammerLinux Kernel Developer
CredentialsProficiency in C, Linux OS, and system APIsDeep knowledge of kernel architecture, C, and debugging tools
Work EnvironmentDevelops system-level applications, interacts with hardware and OSWorks on kernel code, modules, and core OS functionalities
Industry UsageEmbedded systems, device drivers, system utilitiesKernel development, OS internals, driver development
Search/Comparison IntentFocuses on system programming tasks and application developmentFocuses on kernel internals and core OS modifications

The main difference is that Linux System Programmers develop system-level applications and utilities that run on Linux, while Linux Kernel Developers work on the core kernel code itself. Both roles require strong C skills and Linux knowledge, but Kernel Developers focus more on internal OS architecture, whereas System Programmers build on top of the kernel to create functional software.

What are popular job titles related to Linux System Programmer jobs in Washington?

For Linux System Programmer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Linux System Programmer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Linux System Programmer jobs in Washington are:

Linux System Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux System Programmer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Linux System Administrator

Altamira Technologies Corp.

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Linux System Administrator
Altamira Technologies has a long and successful history providing innovative solutions throughout the U.S. National Security community. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, Altamira serves the defense, intelligence, and homeland security communities worldwide by focusing on creating innovative solutions leveraging common standards in architecture, data and security. Altamira believes that our people and the culture of our company differentiate us from other companies.
 
We focus on recruiting talented, self-motivated employees that strive to find a way to get things done. Join our team of experts as we engineer national security! 
Description: Candidates will work in a Linux environment for a Cross Domain Solution (CDS), contributing to its sustainment and evolution. This position requires the application of expertise on multiple complex scripting, development, and work-around assignments that may be broad in nature and require originality and innovation in determining how to accomplish tasks. Qualified candidates will have appreciable latitude in developing methodology, presenting solutions to problems, and contributing to deliverables. 
Location: Chantilly, VA
The Role: Altamira requires Linux system administration support for the development, testing, deployment, operation, and maintenance of various mission-critical applications and services. A primary focus of this position is to provide system administration, configuration, and support tools to maintain and monitor the health of a large data transfer and message processing infrastructure. While the software development team is responsible for the development and customization of the applications, our client requires administration and enhancement of a data metrics collection and dashboarding system to allow simplified operator supervision of the performance of the overall system. Additional tasks include assisting with SNMP monitoring and data metrics collection in a diverse architecture. 

Skills: Linux system administration experience conducting system virtualization, user account management, application update repository maintenance, experience in the creation and management of Ansible playbooks for the automation of tasks, maintenance and usage of Git repositories, and version control. Eagerness to learn and contribute to the overall enhancement of the existing tasks for the maintenance of the system and support applications.

Top Skills:  

  • Red Hat Linux 7/8/9 
  • Ansible 
  • Git version control 
  • Docker 
  • Python and Bash scripting 
  • Experience with virtualization technologies such VMWare ESXi and ProxMox 
Additional Skills and Qualifications: TS/SCI with CI Poly Needed! Active monitoring and sustaining the operations of geographically distributed Linux-based applications to meet service-level agreements. This is to include patching, troubleshooting, debugging, and the creation of workaround solutions. Incident response management for the CDS solutions. Interface with federal personnel to communicate SLA metrics and remediation of incidents. Scripting and possible software development to automate Operations and Maintenance. Potential development of sensors to accelerate the detection of failed systems. Development of documentation for operations, sustainment, and user guides.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $120,000 to $160,000. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors, including, but not limited to, the scope of the position, relevant experience, education, certifications, internal equity, customer contractual requirements, security clearance requirements, and other legitimate business considerations.