Senior Linux/Unix Administrator (5195)

SMX is seeking a driven and experienced Senior Linux/UNIX Administrator to support operations at the Patuxent River Data Center (PRDC).

This individual will work alongside a team of UNIX/Linux Systems Administrators responsible for maintaining the integrity, availability, and security of mission-critical systems across Department of Defense (DoD) networks. The Senior Linux/UNIX Administrator will ensure systems are properly patched and configured in accordance with defined security baselines and hardening policies. Core responsibilities include resolving incidents and service requests in a timely manner and contributing to projects involving diverse systems and applications throughout the data center environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Support operating system and security patching efforts across multiple Department of Defense (DoD) enclaves
• Mentor and support junior UNIX/Linux System Administrators by providing technical guidance on task execution, project involvement, and adoption of new technologies
• Collaborate with other Data Center teams to design and implement Unix/Linux-based solutions that align with business and mission requirements
• Develop, maintain, and improve Ansible playbooks and administrative shell scripts (primarily BASH), both independently and as part of a team
• Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues involving applications, server hardware, firmware, operating systems, and storage, working across functional teams and vendors
• Participate in a rotating on-call schedule to support operational continuity
• Take ownership of system outages, drive resolution, and provide timely, clear communication on status and outcomes
• Manage incidents and service requests through the ticketing system, ensuring resolution is completed accurately and on time
• Participate in technical meetings with customers to gather requirements and provide input on architecture and project solutions

Required Skills/Experience

• Clearance Required: Top Secret
  • Secret required to start
• 5+ years of relevant IT experience
• Work Location: On-site two (2) days per week at Patuxent River, MD (PRDC)
• Baseline Certification: Security+ (or equivalent IAT LevelIl certification) required to start
• Proficient with UNIX/Linux environments, including RHEL 8/9 and Solaris
• Experience with AWS core services such as EC2, S3, VPC, IAM, SSM, and AWS Systems Manager Distributor
• Proficiency with BASH shell scripting
• Experience with Red Hat Satellite or Foreman
• Working knowledge of DoD IA practices, including Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and the Risk Management Framework (RMF)
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to resolve complex, multi-layered technical issues using vendor documentation and in-house tools
• Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment across multiple assignments
• Comfortable engaging directly with customers, peers, and leadership in a dynamic and evolving data center setting

Desired Qualifications

• Familiarity with Identity Management (IdM) solutions
• Experience with Ansible and YAML playbooks
• Bachelor's degree in a related technical field
• Experience with Red Hat Identity Management (IdM) or Free|PA
• Broader exposure to AWS beyond core services
• Senior-level experience with Solaris system administration