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Senior Linux Systems Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts

The group has a need for a Senior Linux Systems Administrator to support projects involving developing and maintaining networks used to process and evaluate data collected from field tests and flight ...

DevOps & Systems Engineer

Peabody, MA · On-site

$58.50 - $80.25/hr

... Engineer to support the development, deployment, and maintenance of the internal systems used by ... This role is focused primarily on on-premises Linux systems, self-hosted development infrastructure ...

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Senior Linux Systems Engineer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$109.8K

$139.7K

$173.1K

How much do senior linux systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior linux systems engineer in Massachusetts is $139,712.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,900.00 and $150,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior Linux systems engineer do?

A Senior Linux Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex Linux-based systems and servers within an organization. Their duties often include configuring system architecture, ensuring system security and reliability, automating processes with scripting, and troubleshooting advanced issues. They may also mentor junior engineers, manage large-scale deployments, and contribute to planning the IT infrastructure. This role requires deep expertise in Linux operating systems, networking, and system optimization.

How does a senior Linux systems engineer typically collaborate with development and security teams?

A Senior Linux Systems Engineer often works closely with development teams to ensure that infrastructure is tailored to the needs of applications, facilitating smooth deployments and resolving compatibility issues. Collaboration with security teams is also essential, as they help implement and maintain system hardening, intrusion detection, and compliance with security policies. Regular meetings, ticketing systems, and cross-functional project planning are common ways these teams work together to ensure system reliability, security, and performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior Linux systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Linux Systems Engineer, you need expert-level knowledge of Linux/Unix systems administration, scripting languages (such as Bash or Python), and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with configuration management tools (like Ansible or Puppet), cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and relevant certifications (e.g., RHCE, LFCS) are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and the ability to mentor junior engineers distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring system reliability, optimizing performance, and driving team success in complex IT environments.

What is the difference between Senior Linux Systems Engineer vs Linux Systems Administrator?

AspectSenior Linux Systems EngineerLinux Systems Administrator
CertificationsLinux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC), RHCELPIC, RHCE often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and optimizing Linux infrastructureMaintaining, monitoring, and supporting Linux systems
ResponsibilitiesAdvanced system architecture, scripting, troubleshooting complex issuesRoutine system setup, updates, user management
Industry UsageTech companies, data centers, cloud providersEnterprises, hosting providers, IT departments

The main difference is that Senior Linux Systems Engineers focus on designing and optimizing Linux infrastructure, while Linux Systems Administrators handle daily maintenance and support tasks. The engineer role involves more strategic planning and complex problem-solving, whereas the administrator role emphasizes operational support and system stability.

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Senior Linux Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Senior Linux Systems Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Linux Systems Engineer jobs in MA?

For Senior Linux Systems Engineer jobs in MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Senior Linux Systems Engineer job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,712 per year, or $67.2 per hour.

Sr. Linux Systems Administrator

Lexington, MA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Sr. Linux Systems Administrator

Clearance Level: Candidates must have an active Secret clearance to be considered. Must be US Citizen 

Location: Must live within 100 miles of Lexington, MA

At Aquila Technology, you will see our team’s passion every day, whether we are building a robust, policy-compliant IT system or stress-testing a system to identify gaps and security vulnerabilities. To own the advantage, we ensure our team owns results and gets the work done right the first time by deploying smart, purposeful solutions that work. Aquila is the right people with the right skills driving the right outcomes. We call this the Aquila Advantage.

About the Role:

Aquila Technology is seeking a Sr. Linux Systems Administrator to support one of the nation's premier defense research organizations. The team is in need of a talented Senior Linux Systems Administrator to support a mid-sized RedHat Linux environment with enterprise level requirements. Qualified candidates should be experienced in current Linux environments and have a strong understanding of system/network architecture and design. This role is responsible for performing systems administration on Red Hat 7/8 servers, Red Hat Identity Management (IdM), Red Hat Ansible Automation, and occasional Windows desktop and server. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate experience in server performance optimization, cyber security, OS and application patching, McAfee suite, scripting, storage, and disaster recovery.

Responsibilities include:

  • Support projects involving developing and maintaining networks used to process and evaluate data collected from field tests and flight experiments.
  • Perform systems administration on Red Hat 7/8 servers, Red Hat Identity Management (IdM), Red Hat Ansible Automation, and occasional Windows desktop and server.
  • Performance optimization, cyber security, OS and application patching, McAfee suite, scripting, storage, and disaster recovery.
Must Have
  • Degree Level: Bachelor's Degree
  • Discipline/Major: Major in Computer Science
  • 3 years - Scripting and Task Automation (e.g. server installation, patch management, configuration)
  • 1 years - Raritan KVM
  • 3 years - Linux Kernel Networking
  • 1 years - PKI, Multi-Factor Authentication, and PIV Technologies
  • 3 years - Full Software Lifecycle Automation and Testing Tools
  • 3 years - GitLab
  • 3 years - Configure and Manage Centralized Logging and Audit Capabilities
  • 5 years - Hardware: Intel/AMD, Cisco, Sun/Oracle, Dell, Apple, EMC, NetApp
  • 5 years - Linux OS and scripting
  • 3 years - MS Active Directory, LDAP
  • 3 years - Red Hat 6/7/8 Linux Development Environment
  • 3 years - Red Hat Identity Management (IdM) or Free IPA Server
  • 3 years - Strong Backup Experience and Proven Ability to Protect Mission Critical Data
  • 5 years - Systems Administration
  • 3 years - UNIX platform, OSX, Cisco IOS
  • 1 years - Virtualization Technologies (VMware, including ESXi and VCenter configuration)
  • 1 years - Virtualization Technologies to include VM management, Snapshots, SANs and iSCSI Storage Systems

Required Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of Red Hat 7/8 Linux
  • Strong experience in scripting languages such as bash, python, or similar
  • Experience in setting up and deploying network services (e.g. GitLab/GitHub, Apache Web Server, NFS server)
  • Centralized account management (experience with Red Hat Identity Management or Free IPA server is a plus)
  • Possess or have the ability to obtain security relevant certifications within 6 months (e.g. Security+, Linux+ or equivalent)
  • Qualified candidates should be experienced in current Linux environments and have a strong understanding of system and network architecture and design.
Preferred Skills:
  • Applied understanding of system hardening (experience with DoD system hardening guidelines is preferred, but not required)

Benefits and Perks:
Aquila team members experience the opportunity to be part of a fast-paced, customer-focused, and technically innovative work environment. Aquila strives to deliver the best of the best in technical services to our customers. Candidates that possess a love for technical challenges, a desire to constantly learn, and the desire to establish themselves as critical players within a team will enjoy calling Aquila Technology home.
Our Perks Include:
PTO - 15 days (vacation/sick) 10 paid holidays - 6 standard (New Year’s, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas) - 4 floating holidays prorated based on your day of hire:

  • 1.5 paid days, or 12 hours, for approved volunteer work
  • 1 week of paid maternity/paternity LOA after 1 year of Full-time employment

Tuition & Training Reimbursement- 5K annually for pre-approved, Eligible full-time team members who have completed a minimum ofsix (6) months of employment may apply for tuition reimbursement for approved, job-related courses taken through an accredited college or university. Team members must achieve a grade of “B” or better to qualify for reimbursement.Aquila will reimburse up to $5,000 per fiscal year for tuition expenses only. Expenses related to training programs, certifications, books, materials, meals, transportation, or other non-tuition costs are not eligible under the Tuition Reimbursement Program. All tuition reimbursement requests must be submitted to and approved by the team member’s Manager prior to course registration. Reimbursement will be issued upon successful course completion and submission of final grades and proof of payment.

401K with Fidelity - Eligible to participate following 90 days of employment. Company match on employee contribution:

  • $1/$1 up to 3%, then .50 cents / $1 for 4th and 5th %s
  • Fully vested from day one
  • Company match does not apply to catch-up contribution

Cell Phone & Internet Reimbursed up to $150 monthly to cover cell phone, data, and home internet expenses. Aquila Technology will reimburse team members who work from home ONLY for cell phone/mobile device fees for work-related communications and/or operations each month. Employees eligible for this benefit must work remote 2 days a week or more to qualify.

Buy Your Own Device (BYOD) - Team members are eligible for reimbursement of up to $1,500 every three (3) years for the purchase of electronic equipment used to access corporate services. To qualify for this benefit, employees must have completed a minimum of six (6) months of employment and must agree to and sign the Device Minimum Configuration Form prior to reimbursement. Electronic devices eligible under the Buy Your Own Device (BYOD) program are limited to cell phones, laptops, and tablets.

Work location: Onsite - Candidate should expect to be onsite 4-5 days a week.

Clearance Level: Candidates must have an active Secret clearance to be considered - Must be US Citizen 

Travel: Mainly domestic but possible international travel.

Interview Process: Initial interview will be zoom screen with HM. If candidate advances to next round, will be a larger interview with technical team.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer