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Unix System Engineer Jobs in Ashburn, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Unix System Engineer information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$33

$62

$110

How much do unix system engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for unix system engineer in Ashburn, VA is $62.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.93 and $68.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectUnix System EngineerLinux System Administrator
CertificationsUnix certifications (e.g., UNIX Certified Engineer)Linux certifications (e.g., RHCE, CompTIA Linux+)
Work EnvironmentUnix-based servers, enterprise environmentsLinux servers, data centers, cloud platforms
Employer & IndustryFinancial, telecom, large enterprisesWeb hosting, tech companies, startups
Common TasksSystem setup, scripting, performance tuningServer management, security, automation

Both roles involve managing and maintaining server systems, but Unix System Engineers focus on Unix-based platforms with specialized certifications, while Linux System Administrators primarily work with Linux environments, often requiring Linux-specific skills and certifications. The roles overlap in system setup and troubleshooting but differ in platform specialization and typical industry usage.

How much do Unix System Engineers make?

Unix System Engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in scripting, networking, or cloud environments can command higher salaries.

What does a Unix System Engineer do?

A Unix System Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting Unix-based operating systems and servers. They often work with shell scripting, system security, and performance optimization, using tools like SSH, cron, and monitoring software to ensure system stability and efficiency.

What cities near Ashburn, VA are hiring for Unix System Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ashburn, VA with the most Unix System Engineer job openings:

Unix System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unix System Engineer job openings in Ashburn, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,249 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

JCIP Expert Reviewer - UNIX

Mclean, VA • On-site

Pueo Business Solutions LLC
Business Management Consulting • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Pueo Business Solutions LLCexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description

Roles and Responsibilities:

Essential:

JCIP Technical Reviewers play a pivotal role in evaluating the cybersecurity posture of enterprise environments across the Intelligence Community (IC). Conduct thorough technical assessments of UNIX-based systems (e.g., Solaris, AIX, Linux variants) for compliance with Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs), Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs), Security Requirement Guides (SRGs), and NIST 800-53 Rev 5 and 800-171 controls.  

Other:

  • Perform manual audits of UNIX configurations, user access controls, file system permissions, patch management, and security logging.
  • Analyze vulnerabilities related to UNIX systems and recommend mitigation strategies aligned with JCIP and IC security policies.
  • Interpret and apply complex STIG requirements specific to UNIX environments.
  • Collaborate with system administrators, security teams, and leadership to present findings and provide actionable security recommendations.
  • Lead and mentor Level 1 UNIX inspectors, providing guidance on technical evaluations and inspection reporting.
  • Stay updated on emerging UNIX threats, patches, and best practices for system hardening.
  • Participate in inspection planning, execution, and reporting.
  • Travel as required to support onsite inspections. (8-12 weeks of travel avg, some international and passport required).
  • The primary day-to-day seat is at Tysons Corner.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge:

  • Deep understanding of UNIX operating systems including Solaris, AIX, and major Linux distributions (Red Hat, CentOS, Ubuntu).
  • Expertise in system hardening, patch management, user and group management, file permissions, and security auditing.
  • Proficient in interpreting UNIX-specific STIGs and aligning findings with NIST 800-53/800-171 controls.
  • Familiarity with shell scripting for automation of audit and remediation tasks.

Skills:

  • Strong hands-on experience performing manual UNIX system security audits.
  • Ability to analyze system logs, identify anomalies, and assess system security posture.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills for technical briefings and reporting.
  • Leadership and mentoring capabilities for guiding junior inspectors.

Abilities:

  • Independently lead UNIX inspections with minimal supervision.
  • Provide expert recommendations for system configuration and architecture improvements.
  • Manage inspection schedules and deliverables effectively.
  • Adapt inspection techniques to diverse UNIX environments and organizational policies.


Requirements

Certifications:

Obtain an IAT-III or Maintain IAT Level III Certification in compliance with DoD 8570.01-M and DoD Directive 8140 Cyberspace Workforce Management. 

CASP+ CE  

CCNP Security  

CISA  

CISSP (or Associate)  

GCED  

GCIH  

CCSP 


Level Certifications Indicative of Qualification:

Level 1- CompTIA Linux+, Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), Solaris Certified System Administrator (SCSA)

Level 2 - Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC-2), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Level 3 - Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA), GIAC Certified UNIX Security Administrator (GCUX), CISSP-ISSAP

Education:

Possess a master's degree, with 8+ years of total experience/equivalent certifications.

Other:

Master's degree may be substituted with a bachelor's degree and 5+ years of additional experience/equivalent certifications, for a total of 13+ years.


Clearance:

Hold a Top Secret Security Clearance with SCI eligibility.

Ability to Pass CI Poly.


Apply