Linux Systems Administrator

A Linux Systems Administrator at SAIC in Mt. Pleasant, SC is essential in performing new server builds, handling decommissions, maintaining operational compliance, and providing customer support. You'll execute Red Hat package updates, remediate vulnerability reports, and run Ansible automation scripts for security and compliance. Additionally, you will troubleshoot a variety of tools while also contributing to system performance improvements.

To qualify for the Linux Systems Administrator role at SAIC, candidates should have a BS degree paired with 9 years of experience or 4 years of IT experience if they don't have a degree. In-depth knowledge of the RHEL operating system and strong troubleshooting skills are crucial. Candidates should also possess or be able to obtain a Linux-related certification within six months. Active Secret security clearance is required for this position.

For the Linux Systems Administrator role at SAIC, candidates need to have CompTIA Security+ CE or an equivalent certification per IAT-II requirements. Additionally, you must either possess or be able to obtain a Linux-related certification such as CompTIA Linux+ or Red Hat Certified Systems Administrator within six months of starting the job.

As a Linux Systems Administrator at SAIC, you'll participate in an on-call rotation to support outages and may be required for occasional after-hours maintenance. This means being ready to troubleshoot and resolve issues outside of regular working hours, ensuring that our customers' services continue running smoothly.

SAIC fosters an innovative and collaborative environment for Linux Systems Administrators. You'll support critical defense and government services while working with a team that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth. The corporate culture encourages teamwork, learning opportunities, and making a real impact in the field of IT.

In managing multiple server builds, I typically prioritize tasks based on deadlines, customer requirements, and resource availability. It's crucial to communicate effectively with stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations, which allows me to allocate my time wisely and ensure alignment with operational procedures.

I have extensive experience managing Red Hat packages through yum/dnf commands, ensuring that systems are up-to-date and compliant with security standards. Understanding how to effectively execute installations and updates allows me to maintain system integrity and functionality.

When troubleshooting server issues, I start with a systematic approach—analyzing logs, checking system metrics, and using diagnostic tools. I always apply a logical process to isolate the problem and then implement solutions while documenting the process to prevent future occurrences.

I am well-acquainted with DISA STIG requirements and understand the importance of compliance in securing systems. I regularly audit systems against these checklists and utilize automated SCAP scans to identify and remediate vulnerabilities, ensuring proper adherence.

I have utilized Ansible automation extensively to streamline our operational processes. By creating playbooks and automation scripts, I can audit systems, apply security updates, and remediate compliance issues efficiently, significantly reducing manual work and potential errors.

One of the main challenges in decommissioning servers has been ensuring compliance with operational procedures while maintaining data integrity. I approach this process methodically, making sure to back up important data and follow best practices for data destruction to adhere to security policies.

During outages, effective communication is key. I prioritize keeping customers informed by providing timely updates on our troubleshooting progress and any necessary steps they may need to take. Transparency helps maintain customer trust and ensures they feel supported throughout the process.

I believe in continuous monitoring and tuning of system parameters to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement. Implementing regular maintenance tasks and utilizing monitoring tools help me to analyze performance metrics and suggest necessary adjustments for optimal system functioning.

My understanding of storage concepts revolves around how data is managed, allocated, and shared efficiently. With NFS, I appreciate its advantages in allowing multiple clients to access files on a server seamlessly, ensuring data consistency and efficient resource usage across the network.

Security is paramount for a Linux Systems Administrator because our role directly impacts the integrity and reliability of IT environments. By ensuring systems are secure and compliant with security policies, I help safeguard sensitive data, maintain operational continuity, and uphold stakeholder trust.