Job#: 3032376 Job Description: Linux Systems Administrator (UNIX) - RDT&E EnvironmentLocation: Dahlgren, VA
Schedule: Hybrid (3 days onsite / 2 days remote)
Salary: $125,000 - $135,000
Clearance: TS or Interim TS (must be able to obtain/maintain Top Secret)
Level: Mid-Level (No COR resume review required)
OverviewApex Systems is seeking a
Linux Systems Administrator (UNIX) to support a Research, Development, Testing & Engineering (RDT&E) environment in Dahlgren, VA. This role provides Tier III support for Linux-based servers and workstations across classified and unclassified environments, supporting engineering and computational workloads.
Key Responsibilities- Administer, maintain, and support Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL 7.x) systems
- Provide Tier III troubleshooting and system performance optimization
- Implement automated system deployments (e.g., Kickstart / Anaconda)
- Apply and maintain DISA STIG compliance within configuration-managed environments
- Support PKI-based authentication and secure access controls
- Administer servers and end-user workstations in classified and unclassified LAN/WAN environments
- Perform system analysis and implement solutions to improve system performance and reliability
- Install, configure, patch, and maintain operating systems and applications
- Manage users, groups, and centralized authentication services
- Configure and manage:
- Storage (partitions, LVM)
- File systems (permissions, ACLs, encryption, NFS)
- Logging (including remote logging)
- Networking services (HTTP/HTTPS, DNS, SMTP, SSH, NTP)
- Network configurations (static routes, NAT, packet filtering)
- Monitor system performance and deliver utilization and health reports
- Develop and maintain shell scripts to automate administrative tasks
- Manage backup/recovery, software distribution, and license tracking
- Collaborate with engineers supporting compute-intensive workloads
- Participate in hardware planning, vendor coordination, and cross-team collaboration
Required Qualifications- 4-6 years of Linux system administration experience
- Experience supporting Linux-based servers and workstations
- Hands-on experience with:
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL 7.x)
- DISA STIGs and DoD security compliance
- Strong knowledge of:
- Linux system operations and command-line tools
- Networking fundamentals in LAN/WAN environments
- System security (firewalls, SELinux, access controls)
- Experience in classified and/or secure environments preferred
- Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to multi-task and provide end-user support
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Certifications- DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II certification required
- Acceptable certifications include: Security+ CE, GSEC, SSCP, CCNA-Security (or equivalent)
Security Clearance Requirements- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret (TS) clearance
- Active TS or Interim TS preferred
- U.S. Citizenship required (clearance eligibility requirement)
Physical Demands- Ability to lift up to 10-20 pounds
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
- Ability to bend, twist, and squat periodically
Preferred Qualifications- Experience supporting DoD or RDT&E environments (e.g., NSWC Dahlgren)
- Familiarity with Windows operating systems in mixed environments
- Experience with virtualization technologies and VM management
- Exposure to engineering or high-performance computing environments
Notes- Mid-level role (no COR review required)
- Designed for candidates with strong hands-on Linux experience in secure environments
Everforth Apex is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Everforth Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Everforth Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click for more details.
Everforth Apex Benefits Overview: Everforth Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Everforth Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Everforth Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Everforth Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Everforth Apex team member can provide.