Entry Level Linux System Administrator Jobs in Columbus, OH

About the Role

Linear 1 Technologies is seeking an experienced Systems Administrator to join our growing Managed Service Provider (MSP) team on a temp-to-hire basis. This role is for an IT professional who is already comfortable handling Tier II-level support and is looking for an opportunity to take greater ownership, work with a broad range of enterprise technologies, and grow into increasingly advanced technical responsibilities in a collaborative MSP environment.

At Linear 1, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside senior technical staff while building toward greater responsibility through project work, client ownership, mentoring opportunities, and technical specialization. We believe in promoting from within whenever possible and providing a clear path for continued professional growth.

This position begins as a temporary, evaluation-based role with the opportunity to transition into an existing full-time Tier II or Systems Administrator position based on performance, team fit, and experience. The temporary period is designed to provide hands-on experience and a structured evaluation to ensure long-term success for both the employee and the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide advanced technical support via phone, email, and on-site visits
• Monitor and manage alerts and support queues through the internal HubSpot ticketing system
• Document actions taken in tickets to support billing, reporting, and service quality
• Troubleshoot and resolve escalated hardware, software, telecom, and network issues
• Demonstrate a resourceful approach to troubleshooting by researching, testing, and utilizing available resources before escalating issues to other team members
• Support and maintain environments, including Windows Server, Microsoft 365, firewalls, and backup systems
• Perform Microsoft 365 administration, including user management, permissions, and configuration changes
• Assist Tier I technicians with escalations and provide guidance when needed
• Install, configure, and test desktops, laptops, servers, and network devices
• Participate in small to mid-sized IT projects and support senior engineers on larger deployments
• Communicate clearly with clients, providing updates, expectations, and technical guidance
• Coordinate with vendors and third-party providers when necessary
• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional approach to support and documentation
• Learn and apply new technologies in a fast-paced MSP environment
• Identify and communicate opportunities for process or technical improvement
  

Additional Responsibilities if hired Full-Time

• Participate in an after-hours on-call rotation shared by all technology team members

Skills & Qualifications

Must-Have:

• 3+ years of progressively responsible IT support experience, including experience independently performing Tier II-level support or Systems Administrator responsibilities
• 1+ year of experience working in a Managed Service Provider (MSP) environment or another role supporting multiple independent client organizations simultaneously
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to independently research and resolve unfamiliar technical issues
• Strong understanding of Microsoft 365 administration, including advanced configuration and troubleshooting
• Experience working in environments with Windows Server and Active Directory
• Working knowledge of Windows 10/11 at the administrative level
• Strong networking knowledge, including TCP/IP, routing, switching, and firewall concepts
• Proven troubleshooting skills across multiple systems and technologies
• Strong interpersonal, customer service, and documentation skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently
• Sincere drive to continuously learn, improve, and grow
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and navigate office environments
• Valid driver's license and ability to be insured to drive a company vehicle
  

Preferred:

• 3+ years of experience in a Managed Service Provider (MSP) environment
• Experience with firewall technologies (Arista, Meraki, MikroTik, etc.)
• Understanding of DNS services and related technologies
• Certifications such as A+, Network+, Security+, or Microsoft certifications
• Layer 2 and 3 networking knowledge with an understanding of BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, MPLS, VXLAN, and data center fabrics

Note: This position is intended for an experienced IT professional already performing Tier II-level support or equivalent Systems Administration responsibilities. Candidates seeking to transition from entry-level or Tier I support into their first advanced support role are encouraged to apply for future opportunities that better align with their experience.

Temporary Employment Details

• This role begins as a full-time, hourly position (40 hours per week)
• The temporary period is intended for training, onboarding, and mutual evaluation
• Duration: Minimum of 60 days, up to a maximum of 180 days
• Time Off: 1 day of PTO accrued per month during this period
• On-Call: Not required during the temporary period
• Performance Reviews: Formal feedback is provided every 30 days
  

Candidates who demonstrate strong technical ability and team alignment are often transitioned to full-time within the first 90 days.

What We Offer

Immediate Benefits (During Temp Period):

• Company laptop and tools provided
• 1 day of PTO accrued per month
• Company vehicle available for client visits
• Exposure to a wide range of technologies and client environments
• Supportive team environment with opportunities to grow

Additional Benefits if hired Full-Time:

• 50% employer-paid health, dental, and vision coverage
• IRA plan with 3% company match (after 1 year of full-time employment service)
• 120 Hours Paid Time Off (Vacation/Sick)
• 9 Paid Company Holidays
• Life insurance and additional benefit options
• Paid professional development and certification reimbursement

About Linear 1 Technologies

Linear 1 Technologies is a Managed Service Provider (MSP) specializing in VoIP telecommunications, fiber internet, IT network infrastructure, and cybersecurity. We partner with clients across Central Ohio to deliver scalable, customized solutions that support their long-term success. We arent just vendorswere trusted IT allies.

We are looking for professionals who view this as more than just their next job. Successful team members have opportunities to take on project leadership, mentor their peers, specialize in advanced technologies, and advance into senior roles as the company continues to grow.