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Senior Linux Systems Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Linux Systems Administrator (Enterprise Infrastructure) Location: Boulder, CO (Hybrid/Onsite - details available upon request) Contract Details: 6 month(s) Company Overview Our client is a well ...

Lead Linux Systems Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$51.66 - $61.66/hr

Collaborate with application, DevOps, and platform teams to improve system reliability and ... Strong expertise in Oracle Enterprise Linux (OEL) systems and FPP. Proven experience in high ...

New

Phoenix,AZ Duration: 12 Months Senior 10+ years of linux - build engineer's, guys that know how to build servers, know Linux at expert level, working with all the latest and greatest tools Skills ...

Phoenix,AZ Duration: 12 Months Senior 10+ years of linux - build engineer's, guys that know how to build servers, know Linux at expert level, working with all the latest and greatest tools Skills ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Linux Systems Engineer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$99.8K

$127K

$157.4K

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior linux systems engineer in Phoenix, AZ is $127,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,200.00 and $137,000.00 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 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 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.
Infographic showing various Senior Linux Systems Engineer job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,020 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Linux Systems Engineer II / Scottsdale

Motion Recruitment Partners, LLC

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Senior Systems Engineer - Linux/Cloud Infrastructure
Location: Hybrid - San Francisco Bay Area or Scottsdale, AZ
About the Role
Our client, a well-established leader in the financial technology and payments space, is looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to support and maintain their hosting infrastructure and operating systems across on-prem and cloud environments. This is a great opportunity to work on mission-critical systems supporting a large-scale, nationally recognized payments platform.
What You'll Do
  • Perform systems engineering, installation, configuration, and administration across Linux, Windows, virtualization, storage, data center, and mainframe environments
  • Implement systems monitoring to ensure platform availability and optimal performance
  • Provide Tier III production support - diagnose complex hardware/software issues and perform root cause analysis
  • Implement security patches, upgrades, and lifecycle management changes
  • Create and maintain technical documentation and procedures
  • Participate in an on-call rotation as part of a team
  • Mentor and coach junior systems engineers
  • Follow formal change management processes

What You'll Need
  • High school diploma or GED
  • 5+ years of Red Hat Linux system administration experience
  • Working knowledge of AWS (EC2, S3, RDS, VPC, CloudWatch, etc.)
  • Understanding of data-at-rest encryption technologies
  • Scripting experience (Bash)
  • Experience in a medium-to-large enterprise environment
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
  • Working knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screen

Nice to Have
  • Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)
  • Additional certifications in Linux, Windows, Virtualization, Storage, Data Center, or Mainframe

Compensation: Competitive base salary (range varies by location) + discretionary incentive plan + benefits