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Senior System Administrator Jobs in Ridgecrest, CA

... RHEL) Senior Systems Administrator to join our growing IT team. In this role, you will be ... Monitoring system performance and proactively identifying and resolving potential issues.

Senior System Administrator information

See Ridgecrest, CA salary details

$48.7K

$101.5K

$142.5K

How much do senior system administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior system administrator in Ridgecrest, CA is $101,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,400.00 and $115,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Senior System Administrator may encounter when managing hybrid cloud environments?

Senior System Administrators often face challenges balancing on-premises infrastructure with cloud-based resources, which can include ensuring consistent security policies, managing data synchronization, and monitoring system performance across multiple platforms. They must also stay updated on evolving technologies and compliance requirements, as well as collaborate closely with development, security, and networking teams. Addressing these complexities requires strong problem-solving skills, robust documentation practices, and a proactive approach to both troubleshooting and automation.

What does a Senior System Administrator do?

A Senior System Administrator is responsible for managing, maintaining, and securing an organization's IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and related systems. They oversee the installation and configuration of hardware and software, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and ensure the reliability and performance of IT services. Senior System Administrators also implement security policies, perform regular system updates, and may supervise junior IT staff. Their expertise is essential for minimizing system downtime and protecting data integrity.

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

To thrive as a Senior System Administrator, you need in-depth knowledge of operating systems, networking, security protocols, and significant experience managing IT infrastructure, usually backed by a degree in computer science or related certifications (such as CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco). Expertise with tools like VMware, Active Directory, PowerShell, and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure) is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure reliable system performance, minimize downtime, and support the technology needs of an organization.

What is the difference between Senior System Administrator vs Network Administrator?

AspectSenior System AdministratorNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCompTIA Server+, Microsoft Certified: Windows Server, Cisco CCNACompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Cisco CCNP
Work EnvironmentData centers, enterprise IT environments, server managementNetwork infrastructure, routing, switching, network security
ResponsibilitiesServer deployment, maintenance, troubleshooting, system upgradesNetwork setup, monitoring, troubleshooting, security management

While both roles require networking and system knowledge, Senior System Administrators focus on server and system management, whereas Network Administrators specialize in network infrastructure. Both roles are essential in enterprise IT, often collaborating to ensure seamless technology operations.

What cities near Ridgecrest, CA are hiring for Senior System Administrator jobs? Cities near Ridgecrest, CA with the most Senior System Administrator job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior System Administrator job openings in Ridgecrest, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,525 per year, or $48.8 per hour.
RHEL Systems Administrator

RHEL Systems Administrator

DCS CORPORATION

Ridgecrest, CA • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Salary Range: $70,310 - $90,000
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) Senior Systems Administrator to join our growing IT team. In this role, you will be responsible for the administration, maintenance, and support of our RHEL-based servers and infrastructure. You will play a critical role in ensuring the stability, security, and performance of our customer's IT systems.
Essential Job Functions:
Installation, configuration, and maintenance of RHEL servers and workstations.
Troubleshooting and resolving system-related issues, including performance bottlenecks, hardware failures, and software conflicts.
Implementing and managing system security measures and access controls.
Performing regular system backups and disaster recovery procedures.
Monitoring system performance and proactively identifying and resolving potential issues.
Automating system administration tasks using scripting languages (e.g., Bash, Python, Perl).
Providing technical support to end-users.
Staying current with the latest RHEL updates, security patches, and best practices.
Assisting with the implementation of new technologies and infrastructure upgrades.
Collaborating with IT Management, other IT teams, and stakeholders to ensure smooth system operations.
Perform periodic performance reporting to support capacity planning.
Be able to work as a team with other cross functional teams to achieve the IPT's mission.
Participate in research and development to continuously improve the organizations environment and processes.
Required Skills:
Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required.
High school diploma/GED plus 10 years of experience, or Associate's-level (AA/AS/Technical school) plus 4 years of experience, a bachelor's degree in an IT field with 2 years of experience, or a master's degree in an IT field with 6 years' experience.
Must be able to be granted a security clearance and maintain one for the duration of employment.
Strong knowledge of RHEL administration, including installation, configuration, and maintenance.
Proficiency in shell scripting (Bash) and other scripting languages (e.g., Python, Perl).
Experience with system monitoring and performance tuning tools.
Strong understanding of networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, routing).
Experience with virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V).
Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Must be able to work onsite - This position is not remote work eligible.
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) and Security+ to comply with DoD 8140.
Must be willing and able to work after hours/weekend support for patching and maintenance as needed.
Possess professionalism, courtesy, high moral character, and integrity.
Desired Skills:
Experience with automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet, Chef).
Experience with configuring and implementing Linux Security Compliance Enforcement (SCE) and FA Policy.

DCS logo

About DCS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DCS Corp is a renowned name in the technology industry, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, US. Found in the late 1970s, DCS Corp provides a broad spectrum of advanced technology, engineering, and analytic solutions for national security clients. The firm specializes in delivering sophisticated systems and technology for land, air, and maritime platforms. They are known for being deeply committed to their mission of enhancing national security.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1977

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