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Unix Systems Administrator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Responsible for installation configuration and support of Unix servers and operating systems within ... Administrators and Application Teams to optimize systems use and configuration. - Provides ...

Linux / Unix Systems Administrator LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking a dedicated and detail ...

Linux / Unix Systems Administrator LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking a dedicated and detail ...

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Unix Systems Administrator information

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$32

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$83

How much do unix systems administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for unix systems administrator in Virginia is $53.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.01 and $60.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a unix systems administrator?

Unix Systems Administrators are IT professionals responsible for installing, configuring, maintaining, and supporting Unix-based servers and systems. Their duties include monitoring system performance, ensuring security, performing backups, applying patches, and troubleshooting issues. They play a critical role in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of a company’s IT infrastructure by managing user accounts, setting permissions, and maintaining system documentation. Unix Systems Administrators often work closely with other IT staff to support organizational needs and optimize system resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a unix systems administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Unix Systems Administrator, you need a strong understanding of Unix/Linux operating systems, shell scripting, system security, and often a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Bash, Perl, Ansible, and system monitoring solutions, as well as certifications such as CompTIA Linux+ or Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), is highly beneficial. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for proactively managing systems and collaborating with IT teams. These skills ensure reliable, secure, and efficient operation of critical IT infrastructure, minimizing downtime and supporting organizational goals.

What are some common challenges faced by unix systems administrators, and how can they be addressed?

Unix Systems Administrators often encounter challenges such as managing complex server environments, ensuring system security, and maintaining high uptime. Troubleshooting issues quickly, especially during outages or performance drops, can be demanding. Staying up-to-date with evolving technologies and scripting for automation are key to overcoming these challenges. Building strong documentation practices and collaborating closely with network, security, and development teams also help maintain smooth operations and facilitate efficient problem-solving.

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

AspectUnix Systems AdministratorLinux Systems Administrator
CertificationsUnix certifications (e.g., UNIX System Administration)Linux certifications (e.g., RHCSA, RHCE)
Work EnvironmentProprietary Unix systems (AIX, Solaris, HP-UX)Open-source Linux distributions (Ubuntu, CentOS, Red Hat)
Employer UsageFinancial, government, and large enterprises with legacy systemsTech companies, startups, and organizations adopting open-source solutions
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve managing and maintaining server systems, Unix Systems Administrators typically work with proprietary Unix platforms, whereas Linux Systems Administrators focus on open-source Linux environments. The core skills and certifications overlap, but the specific operating systems and tools differ based on the organization's infrastructure.

What is the salary of a Unix Systems Administrator?

The salary of a Unix Systems Administrator typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as RHCE or Linux+; senior roles or those in high-cost areas may earn more. They often work with Linux and Unix operating systems, managing servers, networks, and security.

What are the most commonly searched types of Unix Systems Administrator jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Unix Systems Administrator jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Unix Systems Administrator jobs in Virginia?

For Unix Systems Administrator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Unix Systems Administrator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Unix Systems Administrator jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Unix Systems Administrator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,645 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

UNIX SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Navy Exchange Service Command
Retail • 10K+ employees

$80K - $102K/yr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Install, configure, and support Unix servers and operating systems within a large retail enterprise environment.

  • Troubleshoot Unix server and OS issues, utilizing resources to ensure timely resolution.

  • Perform system maintenance, hardware and software upgrades, server migrations, and performance tuning.


Navy Exchange Services rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description

UNIX SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR

Job Number

260001BT

Organization

NEXCOMHQ

Pay Range

$80,893 to $102,677 based upon experience

Job Summary

Responsible for installation, configuration, and support of Unix servers and operating systems within a large retail enterprise environment spanning multiple geographical locations and requiring 24 × 7 uptime. Responsibilities include building logical and virtual partitions, VIO servers, deploying and testing OS, LVM, HACMP, security patching, virus updates, and performance tuning.

Duties and Responsibilities

Incumbents of this position must be U.S. Citizens.

  • Installs and configures Unix server hardware and software, including logical and virtual servers, IBM/HP Virtualization, Virtual I/O servers, Shared Ethernet Adapters, Virtual SCSI Adapters, AIX, HP-UX, Linux, and HBSS.
  • Assumes a primary role in the testing of new equipment. Has knowledge of AIX pSeries hardware as well as hardware capable of hosting Linux.
  • Troubleshoots Unix server and OS issues. Independently utilizes all available resources (knowledge bases, online resources, etc.) to ensure timely resolution of server issues.
  • Develops operating procedures for system administration activities including system monitoring, performance tuning, backup/recovery, server architecture design and system maintenance.
  • Follows operating procedures and utilizes established support tools for analysis and reporting requirements.
  • Executes a planned program of patch and virus update management, including testing, deployment staging, and documentation. Installs, maintains and manages AIX NIM, HP Ignite and HBSS for automated updates. On Linux servers, packages updates as necessary, creates RPMs, and utilizes YUM to install and update packages.
  • Performs regular system maintenance, hardware and software upgrades, server migrations and performance tuning.
  • On Linux servers uses security tools such as SELinux and FAPolicyd to monitor and apply security settings in accordance with DoD, NEXCOM, and industry best practices.
  • Uses system tools and utilities including HMC, DLPAR, LVM, NIM, etc. in performing duties and responsibilities.
  • Writes and modifies shell scripts to monitor and automate system administration tasks.
  • Actively participates in project planning and assumes a leadership role as needed to ensure timely and successful completion of projects assigned to Unix server team.
  • Provides technical knowledge and makes recommendations to staff members as required.
  • Provides server hardware capacity recommendations.
  • Interfaces with Network Engineers, Storage Engineers, Database Administrators and Application Teams to optimize systems use and configuration.
  • Provides installation support for new applications and software releases.
  • Interfaces with hardware vendors to maintain and schedule repair of equipment in a timely manner.
  • Implements installation, configuration, testing and support of HACMP and other High Availability technologies as required.
  • Provides on‑call 24 × 7 support on a rotating basis.
  • Ensures/implements the rigorous application of Information Security/Information Assurance policies, principles, and practices in the delivery of Systems, Applications and/or Services (Hardware & Software).
  • Installs and executes the Secure Readiness Review program and implements system security controls as required. Reviews DISA's Unix Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG) and Checklists for guidance. Implements Payment Card Industry standards and requirements as mandated on Unix Systems.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
Certification Requirements

IAT2 jobs: SECNAV M‑5239.2 DoN, Information Assurance (IA) Workforce Manual requires that all incumbents of this position possess and maintain current, two types of certifications as follows:

  • IA Certification: Security+, GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC), Security Certified Network Professional (SCNP), Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP), or any one of the following higher level certifications: Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), GIAC Security Expert (GSE), Security Certified Network Architect (SCNA).
  • Preferred: Security+ Technical Certification: IBM Certified Specialist.

Certification must be valid (not expired) as defined by the policy of the certification issuer. Candidates without the required certification may be placed into this job but must obtain the required certification within 6 months of appointment; failure to obtain the proper certification requirement will result in termination of employment.

This position is designated IT-2 (Non‑critical Sensitive) in accordance with SECNAV M‑5510.30 and will require a favorable Access National Agency Check and Inquiries (ANACI).

Experience and Education

General Experience: 3 years experience in technical administrative work, which demonstrated the ability and aptitudes required to perform technical, managerial or analytical work involving management information systems.

Specialized Experience: Minimum 3 years progressive experience in the following:

  • Unix Systems Administration (configuration, monitoring, tuning, backup/recovery, etc.)
  • O/S upgrade and patching
  • Logical volume management
  • Troubleshooting and support
  • Unix shell scripting
  • O/S level security
  • Experience with AIX, HP-UX and/or Linux
  • Experience with high availability / clustering highly preferred

Education Substitution: One year of related academic study above the high school level may be substituted for 9 months experience up to a maximum of a 4 year bachelor's degree in computer science or information systems discipline for 3 years of general experience.

Qualified candidates must be U.S. Citizens.

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