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Unix System Administrator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Systems Administrator

Morgan Hill, CA ยท On-site

$95K - $129K/yr

The Sr. Systems Administrator will work closely with engineering teams to maintain systems and ... and/or Unix system administration experience; understanding and working knowledge of layered ...

Skill Unix Shell Scripting, the Adobe Experience Manager/ CQ5 / AEM ,Unix/LINUX Adobe Experience ... Linux operating system Experience with LDAP Experience with automated testing Install the ...

Journeyman Systems Administrator

Camarillo, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Administer and maintain Windows and UNIX/Linux servers and supporting infrastructure. * Support RMF documentation activities and system authorization efforts. * Assist with development, maintenance ...

Journeyman Systems Administrator

Camarillo, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Administer and maintain Windows and UNIX/Linux servers and supporting infrastructure. * Support RMF documentation activities and system authorization efforts. * Assist with development, maintenance ...

Journeyman Systems Administrator

Camarillo, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Administer and maintain Windows and UNIX/Linux servers and supporting infrastructure. * Support RMF documentation activities and system authorization efforts. * Assist with development, maintenance ...

Middleware Administrator

Palo Alto, CA ยท On-site

$61.75 - $81/hr

Experience with Unix system administration and TCP/IP networking. ? Experience using Java, J2EE, XML, SQL and Shell/perl Scripting in a UNIX environment. ? Strong analytical & troubleshooting skills.

Having a UNIX systems administration background will be a major plus however it's very important to note that this is primarily an engineering role, not a sys admin one. Responsibilities: Typical ...

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Unix System Administrator information

See California salary details

$32

$52

$83

How much do unix system administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for unix system administrator in California is $52.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.82 and $60.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Unix system administrator faces when managing large-scale server environments?

Unix System Administrators often encounter challenges related to maintaining uptime, ensuring security, and efficiently handling system updates across multiple servers. Coordinating scheduled maintenance windows without disrupting critical services, troubleshooting hardware or software failures quickly, and scaling systems to accommodate growth all require strong organizational and technical skills. Additionally, admins must stay current with the latest security patches and best practices, often collaborating closely with network engineers, developers, and security teams to keep systems running smoothly.

What is a Unix system administrator?

A UNIX system administrator performs a variety of duties related to the management of a UNIX system. In this career, your primary responsibilities involve overseeing a work environment with a multi-user UNIX operating system. You help install all new hardware and software on the system and train employees on how to use the system and the applications. You perform system management tasks, such as storing and protecting user data and maintaining security. You also develop user manuals and technical guides for the company.

What is the difference between Unix System Administrator vs Linux Administrator?

AspectUnix System AdministratorLinux Administrator
CertificationsUnix certifications (e.g., UNIX Certified Administrator)Linux certifications (e.g., RHCSA, LPIC)
Work EnvironmentUnix-based servers, enterprise environmentsLinux servers, data centers, cloud platforms
Industry UsageFinancial, telecommunications, large enterprisesWeb hosting, cloud services, startups

Both roles involve managing and maintaining server systems, but Unix System Administrators focus on Unix-based platforms, while Linux Administrators specialize in Linux environments. The skills and certifications often overlap, but the specific OS expertise differs based on employer needs.

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

To thrive as a Unix System Administrator, you need a solid understanding of Unix/Linux operating systems, scripting languages (like Bash or Python), and networking fundamentals, typically supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications such as CompTIA Linux+ or Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA). Familiarity with server management tools, configuration management systems (like Ansible or Puppet), and monitoring solutions is also crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with IT teams and resolve issues efficiently. These technical and interpersonal skills ensure reliable system performance, security, and seamless support for organizational IT infrastructure.
What cities in California are hiring for Unix System Administrator jobs? Cities in California with the most Unix System Administrator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Unix System Administrator jobs in CA? For Unix System Administrator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Unix System Administrator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,141 per year, or $53 per hour.

Unix Systems Administrator

ISE LABS INC AND SUBSIDIARY

Fremont, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Summary: This position will provide the technical expertise necessary to implement computer hardware, resolve technical issues related to user problems, and is responsible for the planning, design, implementation, documentation and maintenance of complex computer systems.ย 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned):

  • Directly provide services in the form of problem resolution, troubleshooting, training and support on any IT equipment.
  • Analyze, troubleshoot and resolve hardware, and software problems.
  • Perform daily operational functions in support of UNIX, mail systems, telecommunication systems, PCโ€™s and networks.
  • Provide the resolution of user help desk problems in a timely manner.
  • Provide support for IT infrastructure.
  • Sets up, configures, and supports internal and/or external networks.
  • Perform system maintenance on PCโ€™s networks, and communication systems.
  • Answers, evaluates, and prioritize incoming telephone, voicemail, e-mail, and in-person requests for assistance from users experiencing problems with hardware, software, networking, and other computer-related technologies.
  • Interviews user to collect information about problem and leads user through diagnostic procedures to determine source of error.
  • Determines whether problem is caused by hardware such as modem, printer, cables, or telephone.
  • Handles problem recognition, research, isolation, resolution and follow-up for routine user problems, referring more complex problems to supervisor or technical staff.
  • Logs and tracks calls using problem management database, and maintains history records and related problem documentation.
  • Prepares standard statistical reports, such as help desk incident reports.
  • Analyzes and evaluates incident reports, and makes recommendation to reduce help line incident rate.
  • Consults with programmers to explain software errors or to recommend changes to programs.
  • Calls hardware vendors to request service regarding defective products.
  • Tests hardware to evaluate case of use and whether product will aid user in performing work.
  • Writes hardware evaluation and recommendation for management review.
  • Writes or revises user training manuals and procedures.
  • Develops training materials such as exercises and visual displays.
  • Installs personal computers, software, and peripheral equipment.

Education and/or Experience:

  • BS, BA or AA degree in related field.
  • 2-4+ years of experience and/or training

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:

  • Requires considerable knowledge of: modern office methods and procedures; modern business English, spelling and arithmetic; the operations of common office machines and equipment.
  • Requires considerable ability to: use good judgment in making routine decisions in accordance with existing laws, ordinances, regulations and departmental policies and procedures; establish and maintain satisfactory working relationships with departmental personnel and customers.

Computer Skills:

  • Knowledge of Windows Operating Systemsย 
  • Experience with MS Outlook and MS Office
  • Knowledge of or experience with Switches and routers VPN experience

Qualifications:

  • Direct experience with Ethernet LANs, TCP/IP and Windows
  • Direct experience with MS Exchange Server
  • Knowledge of or experience with SunOS, Solaris, HPUX
  • UNIX, programming, and scripting skills: C, C++, PERL

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • May require some lifting of computer parts and/or equipment.
  • Must be able to lift or move 5-10 lbs. occasionally.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work in Office Environment
  • May need to perform duties in an ESD controlled environment.