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Unix Systems Administrator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

GDIT

Systems Administrator

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

As a Systems Administrator you will help ensure today is safe and tomorrow is smarter. Our work ... 2/3 support of Unix/Windows workstations and servers, including Web servers, network attached ...

Integral

Senior UNIX System Engineer

Radford, VA · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

... Unix Systems Administrator or IT Engineer with experience in automating assigned tasks. • Three or more years' experience in patch management with understanding how to apply security updates to ...

Integral

Senior UNIX System Engineer

Radford, VA

$99K - $135K/yr

... Unix Systems Administrator or IT Engineer with experience in automating assigned tasks. · Three or more years' experience in patch management with understanding how to apply security updates to ...

Intellectix

Systems Administrator

Springfield, VA · On-site

Systems Administrator Location: Springfield, VA Clearance: TS/SCI Citizenship: US Citizenship ... Perform software installations and upgrades to Unix/Windows operating systems and layered software ...

Intellectix

Systems Administrator

Springfield, VA

Systems Administrator Location: Springfield, VA Clearance: TS/SCI Citizenship: US Citizenship ... Perform software installations and upgrades to Unix/Windows operating systems and layered software ...

Apex Systems

Systems Administrator

Richmond, VA · On-site +1

$55.58 - $86.22/hr

Job#: 3034312 Systems Administrator Location: Richmond, Virginia (Remote) Employment Type: Contract ... Proficiency in Unix. * Knowledge of WebSphere Application Server. * Proficiency in Python and/or ...

Bowhead

Systems Administrator

Arlington, VA

Overview SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR (NAUT): Bowhead seeks a Systems Administrator to support our ... Proficiency in Linux/Unix and Windows server administration in cloud environments * Strong ...

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Unix Systems Administrator information

See Virginia salary details

$32

$53

$83

How much do unix systems administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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.

Will AI replace sysadmin jobs?

AI is unlikely to fully replace Unix Systems Administrators, as their role involves complex problem-solving, system configuration, and troubleshooting that require human judgment. Instead, AI tools are increasingly used to automate routine tasks, allowing sysadmins to focus on more strategic and advanced responsibilities. Maintaining skills in scripting, automation, and security remains essential for sysadmins adapting to technological advancements.

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 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 Unix Systems Administrators?

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.

Is Unix used anymore?

Unix remains in use today, especially in enterprise environments, servers, and mainframes. Many systems and applications rely on Unix or Unix-like operating systems such as Linux, and Unix system administrators are still in demand for managing these platforms and ensuring system stability.

What does a Unix systems administrator do?

A Unix systems administrator manages and maintains Unix-based operating systems and servers, ensuring their stability, security, and performance. They install, configure, troubleshoot, and update systems, often using tools like shell scripting and monitoring software, and may hold certifications such as CompTIA Linux+ or Red Hat Certified Engineer. Their work typically involves routine maintenance, security management, and supporting users or applications running on Unix environments.

What is the salary of Unix administration?

The salary of a Unix Systems Administrator typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled administrators with expertise in scripting, security, and system optimization tend to earn higher salaries.
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:
Unix Systems Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unix Systems Administrator job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Full Time, 78% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,645 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Linux Systems Administrator (Unix)

Bowhead

King George, VA

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview

LINUX SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR (UNIX) (RDTE)

Bowhead is looking for a Linux Systems Administrator (UNIX) in Dahlgren, VA. The Linux Systems Administrator will be responsible for system administration and customer support of servers and workstations in a Research, Development, and Testing, and Engineering (RDT&E) environment.

Responsibilities
  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux system administration and will be expected to provide technical problem solving and in-depth consulting for problems involving system operations.
  • Automated installation methods and system imaging (e.g. Kickstart/Anaconda).
  • Usage of cryptographic log on methods (e.g. PKI).
  • DISA STIG implementation and working within Configuration-Managed Environments.
  • Working as part of a team responsible for administration and management of servers, end-user workstations in both unclassified and classified network environments.
  • Analysis, design, and implementation of modifications to the system software in order to improve system performance by correcting errors.
  • Participation in planning new hardware acquisitions, interacting with vendors, educating customers, and communicating and collaborating with other projects within the organization.
  • Working closely with engineers to help them use workstations and servers to solve their computationally intensive problems.
  • Supporting individual user workstations and associated software support.
  • Support for application installation, licenses management, software tracking/distribution and backup/recovery of system configurations and user data files. TIER III (Sr. Linux Systems Administrator)
  • Understand and use essential tools for handling files, directories, command-line environments, and documentation
  • Operate running systems, including booting into different run levels, identifying processes, starting and stopping virtual machines, and controlling services
  • Configure local storage using partitions and logical volumes
  • Create and configure file systems and file system attributes, such as permissions, encryption, access control lists, and network file systems
  • Deploy, configure, and maintain systems, including software installation, update, and core services
  • Manage users and groups, including use of a centralized directory for authentication
  • Manage security, including basic firewall and SELinux configuration
  • Configuring static routes, packet filtering, and network address translation
  • Setting kernel runtime parameters
  • Producing and delivering reports on system utilization
  • Using shell scripting to automate system maintenance tasks
  • Configuring system logging, including remote logging
  • Configuring a system to provide networking services, including HTTP/HTTPS, DNS, SMTP, SSH and NTP.
Qualifications
  • A minimum of three (3) years of professional experience.
  • High School Diploma required. 
  • Demonstrated experience in system administration of Linux-based servers and Linux-based workstations is required.
  • Experience with Department of Defense security guidelines and policies (DISA STIGS).
  • Well-developed Linux system management skills are required.
  • Must meet DoD 8570 Cyber Security Workforce (CSWF) criteria of Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level III certification within 4 months of hire. 
  • Experience with the following operating systems and services is required: Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL 7.x).
  • Demonstrates strong troubleshooting skills along with strong analytical and problem solving skills.
  • Must have the ability to multi-task and assist others to resolve IT related issues is essential.
  • Must have knowledge in the installation, maintenance, and administration of computer systems in a LAN/WAN environment.
  • Requires a strong understanding of current Microsoft supported Windows operating systems.
  • An understanding of Linux operating systems is desirable; but not required.
  • Requires a high level of competency in both written and oral communications skills is strongly desired with ability to work in a team environment.
  • DoD Directive 8570.1 Information Assurance Technical Level II certification required (i.e., Security+ CE, GSEC, SSCP, or CCNA-Security).
  • Familiarity with the Department of Defense (DOD) networking and security accreditation processes and procedures is required.

Physical Demands:

  • Must be able to lift up to 10-20 pounds
  • Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time
  • Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically

SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to obtain an maintain a security clearance at the Top Secret level. US Citizenship is a requirement for Top Secret clearance at this location.

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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