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Senior Linux System Administrator Jobs in California

Linux Admin, vsphere, support, VMWare Duration: 16 months Contract Type: W2 only. No vendors ... Mid to Sr. level switching L2 / L3 expertise. * Mid to Sr. level scripting. * Experience can range ...

The IT team is responsible for the full scope of computing infrastructure, end-user systems ... Partner closely with senior systems engineers (Linux, Windows, Infrastructure) to operationalize ...

Linux Systems Admin

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$102K - $125K/yr

Linux Systems Administrator Location: Remote (Must live within 2 hours of Sacramento, CA) Travel: Occasional travel to Sacramento-area data centers as needed On-Call: Participation in an on-call ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Linux System Administrator information

See California salary details

$21.7K

$125.6K

$176.2K

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior linux system administrator in California is $125,562.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,600.00 and $148,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior Linux System Administrator, you need deep expertise in Linux/UNIX system administration, scripting, networking, and troubleshooting, typically backed by several years of industry experience and a relevant degree or certifications like RHCE or CompTIA Linux+. Proficiency with tools such as Ansible, Puppet, Docker, and monitoring platforms, as well as experience with cloud environments, is highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to mentor junior team members are crucial soft skills. These abilities are essential for ensuring reliable system uptime, seamless team collaboration, and effective response to complex IT challenges.

What is a senior Linux system administrator?

A Senior Linux System Administrator is responsible for managing, configuring, and maintaining Linux-based systems and servers. They handle system performance tuning, security hardening, troubleshooting, and automation through scripting and configuration management tools. Additionally, they oversee backups, software updates, and infrastructure reliability. This role often involves mentoring junior administrators and collaborating with development and IT teams to support business operations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a senior Linux system administrator?

Senior Linux System Administrators are responsible for managing, maintaining, and optimizing Linux-based servers and infrastructure. Their daily tasks often include monitoring system performance, managing user permissions, applying security patches, automating processes through scripting, and troubleshooting technical issues. They regularly collaborate with developer, security, and operations teams to support new deployments and ensure system reliability. Additionally, they may mentor junior administrators and contribute to designing infrastructure improvements, making this a dynamic and influential role within IT operations.

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 are popular job titles related to Senior Linux System Administrator jobs in California? For Senior Linux System Administrator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Linux System Administrator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Linux System Administrator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Senior Linux System Administrator jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Linux System Administrator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Linux System Administrator jobs in CA? For Senior Linux System Administrator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Senior Linux System Administrator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,562 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Linux System Administrator with Security Clearance

Bridge Defense

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

About Bridge Defense. Bridge Defense is redefining how modern defense technology is delivered. Based in Washington, D.C., we are built for the dynamic mission environment facing the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and federal law enforcement agencies. We provide full-spectrum national security solutions that combine secure infrastructure, cleared talent, and mission-ready software to meet evolving defense challenges. Our services include secure software development in classified environments and the design and implementation of advanced IT and cybersecurity capabilities ranging from secure cloud architectures and enterprise infrastructure to data center operations, scientific analysis, cutting-edge cyber defense, and intelligence analysis. We are led by technologists and veterans with firsthand mission experience, which enables us to understand both the operational realities and the innovation needed to succeed. Our approach is agile and outcome-based, delivering results in weeks rather than months whenever possible. At Bridge Defense we value people, integrity, and excellence. We foster an environment where innovation thrives in support of traditional mission requirements. Our team members receive competitive compensation, robust benefits, professional development and certification opportunities, and clear paths for growth while working on the nationโ€™s most critical projects. Core Values: * Innovation & Responsiveness: We push beyond legacy models with efficient, tech-led solutions built to scale and evolve.
* Trusted Performance: Security, compliance, and deep experience in delivering to demanding environments guides all we do.
* Mission Focused Expertise: From veteran leadership to cleared engineers, our people understand both the technology and the mission.
Summary: Bridge Defense seeks a Linux Systems Administrator to support the N6 IT Fleet Weather Center San Diego (FWCSD) department as it relates to system administration requirements and compliance. FWC-SD provides an asymmetric warfighting advantage to Fleet Forces through application of METOC forecasts, warnings, and recommendations for Fleet Commanders afloat and facilities ashore in support of asset protection responsibilities and risk management decisions. The recent loss of personnel at FWC San Diego are an untenable reduction in the number of qualified and certified members of the Cyber Security Workforce (CSWF). Therefore, the Command requires a Linux System Administrator support with the CSWF certification. These services are required to ensure the ability to be responsive, timely, and flexible without sacrificing the quality of meteorological and oceanographic (METOC) products and services. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Administer, maintain, and support Linux-based operating systems, web servers, databases, and enterprise applications.
* Install, patch, configure, and maintain Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems.
* Maintain operational readiness of hardware, software, and networked information systems.
* Provide desktop and server support for users operating on classified and unclassified networks.
* Develop, test, document, implement, and maintain PHP scripts and automated web-based data distribution solutions.
* Perform system monitoring, log analysis, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
* Implement and maintain cybersecurity controls in accordance with DoD and Department of the Navy requirements.
* Support vulnerability management, remediation efforts, security testing, and compliance reporting activities.
* Assist with information assurance assessments and security control implementation.
* Support change management activities, system upgrades, and infrastructure modernization initiatives.
* Maintain system documentation, configuration baselines, turnover documentation, and standard operating procedures.
* Support Information Systems Security Managers (ISSMs) and Information Systems Security Engineers (ISSEs) with cybersecurity compliance activities.
* Review, analyze, and interpret audit logs and security events to identify risks and potential security incidents.
* Assist with public key infrastructure (PKI) implementation and management activities.
* Research, interpret, and apply DoD and Department of the Navy cybersecurity policies, directives, and guidance.
* Provide technical recommendations to improve system security, availability, and operational effectiveness.
* Support Fleet Weather Center San Diego and associated mission partners as required.
Required Qualifications, Education, and Experience: Qualifications: * Active Secret security clearance with the ability to maintain access (with T5 background).
* DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II or IAM Level II certification (e.g., Security+ CE).
* Cybersecurity Workforce (CSWF) certification.
* Strong knowledge of Linux system administration and cybersecurity best practices.
* Experience supporting classified information systems and compliance requirements.
Education: * Bachelor's degree in information technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, or related field. Equivalent military training and relevant experience may be substituted.
Experience: * Experience administering Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) 7 and/or 8 environments.
* Experience supporting enterprise IT infrastructure, information assurance, and cybersecurity compliance activities.
* Experience with system patching, vulnerability remediation, and security auditing.
* Experience supporting web servers, databases, and scripting solutions. Desired Qualifications, Education, and Experience: Qualifications: * Familiarity with Navy, DoD, and Department of the Navy cybersecurity requirements.
* Knowledge of Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs), RMF, and cybersecurity compliance frameworks.
* Experience supporting meteorological, scientific, operational, or mission-critical systems.
Education: * Advanced degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or related discipline.
Experience: * Experience supporting Navy or Department of Defense organizations.
* Experience with automation, scripting, and web application development.
* Experience supporting PKI environments and cybersecurity testing initiatives.
* Experience working within highly regulated operational environments.
The Successful Candidate will Possess: * Strong risk management skills and a commitment to cybersecurity best practices.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
* Ability to prioritize competing requirements and mission-critical tasks.
* Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
* Ability to exercise independent judgment and make sound technical decisions.
* Strong collaboration and teamwork skills.
* Self-starter with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
* Technically curious and committed to continuous learning and professional development.
* Ability to develop and maintain technical documentation, SOPs, and operational procedures.
* Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and mission requirements.
General Factors: * Position is located onsite at Fleet Weather Center San Diego, NAS North Island, San Diego, California.
* Depending on project requirements, overtime may be required to meet mission and operational needs.
* Limited travel may be required.
* No relocation assistance is available.
* Must be able to sit and/or stand for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
* Must be able to multitask and rapidly adjust priorities with limited notice.
Clearance: Active Secret security clearance with the ability to maintain access (with T5 background) Location:  San Diego, CA Salary Range: 140K - 155K Online applications, please. When we review candidates' information, we are looking for the best matches for the position based on the qualifications listed in the job posting. If your skills and experience appear to match an open position, a recruitment services professional or a hiring manager may contact you. Bridge Defense is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression, national origin or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you are a qualified disabled veteran or individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to use or access our online system, please contact us at 202-436-9222. The pay range for this role is: 140,000 - 155,000 USD per year (San Diego, CA) Apply now Services San Diego, CA Share on: Apply now Terms of servicePrivacyCookiesPowered by Rippling