Junior Linux Systems Administrator Security Clearance

Position: Junior Linux Systems Administrator with Security Clearance
Job
Date Posted:
January 5, 2026 Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a Junior Linux System Administrator to design, implement, secure, and maintain systems and associated applications, services, and components. This position is on-site, non-remote at our North Logan, UT location.

Key Responsibilities:

* Achieves in-depth knowledge of company processes, systems, and networks
* Proactively monitors assigned systems to ensure high availability, optimum performance, and security
* Follows established IT policies and procedures to perform audits and ensure compliance
* Ensures data integrity by implementing standard software and hardware solutions
* Works with leaders to prioritize projects, requests, changes, and tasks
* Assists in the maintenance and documentation of assigned systems and communicates progress through updates, workflow status, due dates, etc.
* Assists in the installation and configuration of information systems and components
* Assists with day-to-day operational maintenance, support, and upgrades
* Implements and maintains Linux security hardening, patch management, user and permission administration, and compliance with security standards
* Adheres to change management processes and ensures all changes are thoroughly tested prior to implementation
* Collaborates with cross-functional teams, supports project implementations, and improves system architecture
* Applies strong problem-solving skills in fast-paced environments, independently and as part of a team.
* Performs maintenance on systems minimizing downtime and customer impact
* Performs after-hours maintenance and provides on-call support, as needed

Required Qualifications:

* Must have a bachelor's degree in a technical field (e.g., IT, computer science, information systems, engineering, or related field) with 0-10 years' experience or 5-15 years of equivalent experience in lieu of a degree
* Experience administering Linux systems (e.g., RHEL 7/8/9, Ubuntu 22/24)
* Working knowledge of virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware vSphere, Hyper-V, Virtual Box), including VM provisioning and basic performance tuning
* Familiarity with Linux security best practices, including system hardening and baseline compliance concepts
* Familiarity with monitoring and alerting tools (e.g., Elasticsearch, Log Rhythm, Prometheus, Grafana) or similar enterprise monitoring platforms.
* Proficient with package management tools (YUM, DNF, RPM, APT) and maintaining local or offline repositories
* Familiarity with container concepts and basic experience with container tools such as Docker or Podman
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to document and collaborate effectively
* Must be willing to travel when required (2-3 times annually)
* Must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Security Clearance
* Active CompTIA Security+ CE or equivalent certification that meets or exceeds DoD 8570 IAT Level II (or ability to obtain within a maximum of 30 days after hire)

Preferred Qualifications:

* Experience with automated deployment and infrastructure as code tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet, Terraform)
* Hands-on experience with container platforms such (e.g., Kubernetes, Open Shift, Docker, or Podman)
* Familiarity with databases (e.g., Postgres, MySQL) and Linux web services (e.g., Apache, Nginx)
* Comprehensive knowledge of virtualization platforms such as Red Hat Virtualization (RHV), VMware vSphere, or KVM/QEMU, including VM provisioning, resource allocation, snapshots, and performance tuning
* Proficiency in one or more scripting languages
* Understanding of information systems security best practices, DoD security requirements, and use of security tools such as Nessus, SCAP, and applying STIGs
* RHCSA and Red Hat Certified Open Shift Administrator certifications
* Active DoD security clearance
* Salary Range * $65,500 - $107,500
* Salary commensurate based on education and relevant experience This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate's preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.

Why Join SDL?
* SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer. SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense.

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