Sr. Engineer Linux/Cloud Engineer

Job Title: Systems Engineer (NEI-14)
Location: Bethesda, MD

CyberData Technologies is seeking an experienced Systems Engineer with a strong background in Linux administration and network infrastructure to support and enhance NEI s IT systems. This position will focus on maintaining and optimizing Linux-based environments with a heavy emphasis on automation and configuration management using Ansible.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, coordinate, and execute changes or additions to network hardware, operating systems, and connected devices, including hardware/software configuration, installation, and testing.
• Provide hands-on support for network infrastructure and operating systems; monitor system utilization and analyze response times.
• Diagnose and resolve issues involving physical network components and communication protocols.
• Enforce and maintain network infrastructure standards and protocols (e.g., TCP/IP).
• Manage and support Linux-based server environments, including installation, configuration, patch management, and performance tuning.
• Leverage Ansible to automate system configurations and routine administrative tasks.
• Create, manage, and maintain Ansible playbooks, roles, and inventories for consistent and scalable deployments.
• Monitor system performance, identify root causes of issues, and implement corrective measures to enhance system availability and reliability.
• Design and maintain system backup and disaster recovery strategies.
• Conduct periodic security assessments and ensure timely updates to mitigate vulnerabilities.
• Implement security best practices, including user access management and compliance with organizational standards.
• Deliver technical guidance and training for IT team members on Linux systems, automation tools, and network protocols.
• Provide direct operational support and troubleshooting for Linux and network infrastructure.
• Administer and maintain NEI websites hosted on Linux platforms.
• Install, configure, and manage databases on Linux systems.
• Utilize knowledge of cloud platforms such as AWS and Azure.

Qualifications:

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Linux system administration and network management.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Ansible for managing and automating Linux systems.

Technical Skills:

• Expertise in Linux operating systems (e.g., Ubuntu, CentOS, RHEL).
• Strong grasp of networking fundamentals, protocols (e.g., TCP/IP), and hardware.
• Hands-on experience with infrastructure automation using Ansible, including playbook development and lifecycle management.
• Familiarity with virtualization tools and scripting languages such as Bash or Python.

Preferred Certifications:

• Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)
• CompTIA Linux+
• CompTIA Network+ or Security+

Core Competencies:

• Advanced problem-solving and diagnostic skills with demonstrated initiative with task-management.
• Clear communication and strong documentation practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams and adapt in fast-paced environments.