Systems Engineer; Linux​/Puppet

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LRS Consulting Services is seeking a Systems Engineer (Linux/Puppet) for a remote contract-to-hire opportunity with our opinion research client in Chicago, IL. This role is ideal for an experienced systems engineer who enjoys automation, infrastructure management, and supporting enterprise Linux environments across both on-premises and cloud platforms.

• Support and administer enterprise Linux infrastructure across on-premises and cloud-hosted environments.
• Manage system provisioning, configuration, maintenance, and lifecycle activities utilizing Infrastructure-as-Code and configuration management practices.
• Develop and maintain automation solutions supporting operational and infrastructure processes.
• Support Linux systems integration within a predominantly Windows-based enterprise environment.
• Assist with system hardening, compliance initiatives, audit readiness activities, and operational documentation.
• Collaborate with infrastructure teams to improve automation, standardization, and platform reliability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex system and infrastructure issues.

• Minimum 5 years of Linux systems administration or systems engineering experience in a production enterprise environment.
• Strong experience supporting enterprise Linux platforms such as:
  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
  • Rocky Linux
  • Ubuntu
  • Similar Linux distributions
• Experience working with configuration management tools, preferably Puppet.
• Familiarity with Infrastructure-as-Code concepts and automated systems administration practices.
• Experience with Bash scripting.
• Python and/or Power Shell experience preferred.
• Experience supporting systems within highly regulated or compliance-driven environments.
• Understanding of security and hardening standards such as:
  • CIS Benchmarks
  • STIGs
  • NIST frameworks
  • Similar security standards
• Experience supporting Linux-based workloads in Azure and/or AWS environments preferred.
• Familiarity with Active Directory, Entra , or enterprise identity management concepts preferred.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

The base range for this contract position is $60.00 - $80.00 per hour, depending on experience. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires across all U.S. locations. Individual compensation is determined by work location and additional factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

LRS is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for employment will receive consideration without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, gender identity, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship status or protected veteran status.

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