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Linux Unix System Administrator Jobs in California

Tixy Services

Unix/Linux Administrator

Cupertino, CA · On-site

The Linux Cloud Admin provides first‑line technical support for Linux systems an enterprise environment. The role focuses on user onboarding, access provisioning, installation, licensing ...

New

US IT Solutions Inc

UNIX Administrator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Experience with system build process and procedures in a virtualized environment * Experience with ... Must have experience with either IBM AIX or Red Hat Linux in an Enterprise level environment.

Zealogics.com

HPC engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

... Linux administrator, operating systems (Linux, Windows), computer network * Distributed file ... HPC Operating System Installation/provision - Windows Server, Linux, Unix. * Troubleshooting and ...

Bloom Energy

Linux Systems Administrator

San Jose, CA · On-site

We are looking for a Linux Systems Administrator to join our team in one of today's most exciting ... Applies revisions to host system firmware and software. Works with vendors to assist support ...

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All JobsLinux Unix System Administrator JobsLinux Unix System Administrator Jobs in California

Linux Unix System Administrator information

See California salary details

$78.5K

$118.1K

$197.9K

How much do linux unix system administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux unix system administrator in California is $118,067.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $126,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Linux/Unix System Administrator, you need expertise in system installation, configuration, troubleshooting, scripting (such as Bash or Python), and a solid understanding of networking and security principles, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Ansible, Puppet, Nagios, and commonly used distributions, plus certifications such as RHCSA or CompTIA Linux+, is highly valued. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help administrators excel in managing systems and collaborating with technical teams. These competencies are essential to maintain robust, secure, and efficient server environments critical to business operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Linux Unix System Administrators, and how can they be addressed?

Linux Unix System Administrators often encounter challenges such as managing system uptime, applying timely security patches, and troubleshooting unexpected performance issues. Balancing routine maintenance with urgent incidents can be demanding, especially in environments with 24/7 operations. To address these challenges, administrators typically rely on automation tools, proactive monitoring, and clear communication within their IT teams. Staying current with documentation and best practices also helps streamline problem-solving and ensures system reliability.

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

AspectLinux Unix System AdministratorNetwork Administrator
CertificationsLinux/Unix certifications (e.g., LPIC, RHCE)Network certifications (e.g., CCNA, CompTIA Network+)
Work EnvironmentServers, data centers, cloud platformsNetworking hardware, routers, switches, firewalls
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging Linux/Unix servers, scripting, system securityConfiguring and maintaining network infrastructure
Industry UsageIT, data centers, cloud servicesTelecommunications, enterprise networks

The Linux Unix System Administrator focuses on managing and maintaining Linux and Unix servers, ensuring system security and performance. In contrast, the Network Administrator primarily handles network infrastructure, including routers and switches, to ensure reliable connectivity. Both roles require technical certifications and are vital in IT and enterprise environments, but they specialize in different aspects of technology infrastructure.

What are Linux Unix System Administrators?

Linux Unix System Administrators are IT professionals responsible for installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting Linux and Unix-based servers and systems. They ensure that these systems run efficiently, securely, and reliably for users and applications. Their duties often include user account management, system updates, monitoring system performance, implementing security measures, and performing regular backups. They play a critical role in supporting business operations that depend on stable and secure computing environments.
What are popular job titles related to Linux Unix System Administrator jobs in CA? For Linux Unix System Administrator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Linux Unix System Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Unix System Administrator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,067 per year, or $56.8 per hour.
IT Linux/Cloud System Administrator 3

IT Linux/Cloud System Administrator 3

United Launch Alliance

Lompoc, CA

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Requisition ID: 1844

Standard Weekly Hours: 40.00 

Location: ULA - Denver, ULA - Cape Canaveral, ULA - Decatur, ULA - Vandenberg AFB 

Relocation: No 

Travel Requirements: 10% 

At ULA, success comes through the efforts of a strong, united team.

Thanks for your interest in United Launch Alliance, the world's most experienced and reliable space launch company! Successfully launching more than 155 consecutive missions with 100% mission success doesn't happen by accident. It's a testament to the commitment and dedication of our team of rocket scientists and support employees combined with the systems and processes we use to pull them together. As a ULA employee, you'll have the opportunity to grow in your career while working in a team-oriented culture that combines technology, innovation, ingenuity and a commitment to the extraordinary. Whether you are in college just launching your career, or, have experience and want to come work with the best rocket team in the world, our unshakable unity yields stronger solutions and better results as we carry out our mission to save lives, explore the universe, and connect the world. Our team is excited to meet you!

Job Overview & Responsibilities

At ULA the System Administrator 3 - Linux / Cloud is responsible for the administration, maintenance, monitoring, troubleshooting, and operational support of Linux systems across on-premises and cloud environments. This role works more independently than entry-level administrators and is expected to take ownership of routine operational work, resolve moderately complex technical issues, and contribute to the stability, security, and performance of enterprise infrastructure.

The position includes supporting Linux servers, cloud-hosted systems, patching and upgrades, monitoring and alert response, incident support, access administration, backup verification, documentation, and continuous improvement activities. The ideal candidate brings solid Linux administration experience, practical cloud operations knowledge, sound troubleshooting ability, and the discipline to work within established operational processes while helping improve them over time.

  • 100% Mission-Success / High-Reliability Organization
  • Increase Organizational Scale & Launch Rate
  • Be the premier launch provider for United States Government
  • Drive down organizational costs 
  • Administer, maintain, and support Linux servers and related infrastructure in production environments.
  • Support Linux systems deployed on-premises and in cloud environments such as AWS or Azure.
  • Monitor system health, availability, capacity, and performance, and respond to alerts and operational issues.
  • Review system and application logs, scheduled jobs, backups, and service status to identify and address issues.
  • Perform patching, upgrades, maintenance, and routine lifecycle tasks for Linux systems and cloud-hosted workloads.
  • Troubleshoot Linux operating system, service, storage, access, and performance issues, escalating more complex problems as needed.
  • Manage user accounts, permissions, and access controls in accordance with security and operational standards.
  • Support backup, recovery, disaster recovery readiness, and operational validation activities.
  • Document system configurations, technical procedures, troubleshooting steps, and operational changes.
  • Participate in incident response, change implementation, on-call support, and team operating rhythms.
  • Contribute to automation and scripting efforts that reduce manual work and improve consistency.
  • Partner with infrastructure, network, security, and application teams to resolve issues and improve platform reliability.

Required Education

Bachelor

Required Years of Experience

Minimum of 4 years of related work experience

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field from an  accredited college or university
  • Four years of directly related exempt work experience may be used to satisfy the bachelor's degree requirement
  • Experience administering enterprise Linux systems in production environments
  • Strong Linux administration skills (e.g., CLI, services, filesystems, permissions, package management, system, logging, performance)
  • Experience supporting cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, or similar)
  • Experience with system operations: monitoring, patching, upgrades, backups, and incident support
  • Proven troubleshooting ability for Linux systems and services with limited supervision
  • Experience working within operational processes (incident, change, documentation management)
  • Working knowledge of virtualization, storage, networking, and security fundamentals
  • Experience with scripting or automation (Bash, Python, Ansible, or similar)
  • Ability to perform routine and moderately complex administration tasks independently
  • Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Ownership, accountability, and attention to detail in operational work
  • Good judgment in troubleshooting, prioritization, and escalation
  • Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with a team
  • Calm, methodical approach during incidents and production issues
  • Commitment to documentation, standardization, and continuous improvement
  • Ability to support or guide junior team members when needed
  • Ability to obtain and maintain active DoD TS/SCI is required. US citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting hybrid environments (on-premises and cloud-based Linux systems) 
Hands-on experience with AWS or Azure in production 
Experience with automation/configuration management (Ansible, Terraform, or similar) 
Familiarity with enterprise tools (monitoring, logging, ticketing, change management) 
Exposure to containers and orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes, or similar) 
Experience in high-availability, regulated, or security-focused environments 
Relevant certifications (RHCSA, RHCE, Linux+, AWS, or Azure) 
Familiarity with cloud services (compute, identity, storage, monitoring, security) 
Experience with backup/recovery and performance tuning in Linux environments 
Initiative to improve processes, solve recurring issues, and enhance documentation 
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities 
Team-oriented mindset with willingness to support shared operational work 

Summary Salary Range (for ULA - Denver, ULA - Cape Canaveral, ULA - Decatur, ULA - Vandenberg AFB only):  $99,604.00 - $166,007.00 

Please note that the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon a candidate's experience and qualifications, as well as internal equity, market and business considerations. Employees may be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus in addition to base pay. 

What makes ULA different?

Because we understand launch success comes through the collective efforts of a team, we seek the best to join us. We value ethics, ingenuity, engagement and professional development for employees at all levels.

We offer our employees competitive pay and benefits including:

  • 401(k) match plus an additional employer contribution
  • Discretionary annual incentive bonus for eligible employees
  • Generous paid time off
  • Flexible work environments

Additionally, most salaried ULA team members work a "9/80 schedule," meaning they enjoy every other Friday off.

Benefits and work schedules may vary for union-represented hourly positions and are described in the applicable collective bargaining agreement.

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.

Security Clearance / International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR). This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR). Therefore, all applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined in ITAR 22 CFR 120.62 (e.g., U.S. Citizen, Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) or protected individual. See 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) and 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) for additional information).

ULA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

ULA is a participant in the federal E-Verify Program. Posters in PDF format pertaining to this program can be accessed by clicking on the links identified below. E-Verify Participation poster (English / Spanish) and Right to Work Poster (English / Spanish).

Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act requires covered employees to follow a post selection notification process. A hired candidate may opt out of this process by notifying the hiring manager in writing at the time the offer is accepted

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