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Senior Linux Systems Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Nwis

LINUX Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Nightwing is seeking an analytical thinker who enjoys solving complex engineering problems while working with a close-nit team as a Linux Systems Engineer. In this role you will perform production ...

Nightwing

LINUX Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Nightwing is seeking an analytical thinker who enjoys solving complex engineering problems while working with a close-nit team as a Linux Systems Engineer. In this role you will perform production ...

Andworx, LLC

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Learn more about Andwyrde at Andworx is hiring for a mid-level Linux systems engineer with knowledge and background of the Linux operating systems, including scripting, administration, and systems ...

Andworx, LLC

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Learn more about Andwyrde at Andworx is hiring for a mid-level Linux systems engineer with knowledge and background of the Linux operating systems, including scripting, administration, and systems ...

Peraton

Linux Systems Engineer

College Park, MD · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton Labs is seeking a poly cleared Linux Systems Engineer to help design, implement, and sustain secure, mission-focused research infrastructure supporting a Maryland-based ...

Peraton

Linux Systems Engineer

College Park, MD · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton Labs is seeking a poly cleared Linux Systems Engineer to help design, implement, and sustain secure, mission-focused research infrastructure supporting a Maryland-based ...

Peraton

Linux Systems Engineer

College Park, MD

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton Labs is seeking a poly cleared Linux Systems Engineer to help design, implement, and sustain secure, mission-focused research infrastructure supporting a Maryland-based ...

Leidos

Senior Linux System Administrator

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

The Senior 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 ...

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Senior Linux Systems Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$104.7K

$133.3K

$165.2K

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 Reston, VA is $133,334.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,000.00 and $143,800.00 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.
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Senior Linux Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Senior Linux Systems Engineer job openings:
Senior Linux Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Linux Systems Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,089 per year, or $64 per hour.

LINUX Systems Engineer

Nwis

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Nightwing is seeking an analytical thinker who enjoys solving complex engineering problems while working with a close-nit team as a Linux Systems Engineer. In this role you will perform production systems integration within a cutting-edge Linux based virtualization stack, streamline and secure applications, storage, physical servers, and install, troubleshoot and maintain customer hardware. Our ideal candidate is detail-oriented and skilled at making data-driven decisions to proactively address issues before they impact end users.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

  • Manage the software, hardware, and systems on a Linux server
  • Design, build, and maintain core services and infrastructure
  • Install and monitor Linux operating systems
  • Implement security measures and identify potential issues
  • Update security settings for enterprise firewalls
  • Automate vulnerability and security patching
  • Participate in programming, scripting, and process automation
  • Design and manage backup and recovery strategies

Required Skills and Experience

  • 5+ years of hands-on Linux Systems Engineering experience
  • Specific experience in Python both with scripting and building applications
  • Specific experience using Bash for automating tasks and deploying software/services
  • Experience installing and configuring VPN services (openvpn/wireguard/ipsec), firewalls (netfilter/NFTables), and networks
  • Experience with information security frameworks such as disk encryption, PKI, Symmetric/Asymmetric encryption and digital certificates
  • Experience using observability tools and stack traces
  • Experience scripting and developing system automation tools
  • Experience with log analysis, monitoring, and alerting systems
  • Knowledge of TCP/IP addressing, routing, and troubleshooting
  • Knowledge of directory service principles such as organization units, and realm authentication
  • Familiarity with cloud provisioning
  • Knowledge of modern configuration management tooling - specifically Ansible and SaltStack
  • Minimum Secret Clearance with the ability to acquire a TS with SCI eligibility

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience specifically with Debian based distributions
  • Experience with virtual server implementation and management

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.


Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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