Linux Systems Administrator

Job ID: 4867

Position Posted: Thursday, September 18 th , 2025

Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced Linux System Administrator to design, implement, secure, and maintain systems and associated applications, services, and components. This is an on-site, non-remote position in 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
• Assists with the day-to-day operational maintenance, support, and upgrades
• Follows established IT policies and procedures to perform audits and ensure compliance
• Ensures data integrity by implementing standard software and hardware solutions
• Works with their leaders to prioritize projects, requests, changes, and tasks
• Documents issues in Jira, communicates progress (through updates, workflow status, due dates, etc.) as the issue is being worked
• Understands and utilizes Change Management when adding, modifying, or removing anything that could have an effect on IT services
• Assists in installation and configuration of information systems and components
• Assists in the design and implementation of information systems
• Responsible for documentation of assigned systems and solutions

Required Qualifications:

• 9+ years of experience administering Linux environments (servers and workstations), including RHEL and Ubuntu, in air-gapped environments OR 5+ years of experience with a BS degree
• 1-2 years' experience deploying, configuring, and managing OpenShift clusters (preferably v4.14+), including container orchestration, pod networking, persistent storage, and troubleshooting cluster components
• Active CompTIA Security+ CE or equivalent certification that meets or exceeds DoD 8570 IAT Level II (or be able to obtain within a maximum of 30 days after hire)
• Proficient in managing RHEL systems (v7/8/9), including system updates, package management, user and permission administration, system monitoring, and security hardening
• Demonstrated ability to manage installation and maintenance of monthly security patches, with a willingness to perform after-hours maintenance and on-call support as needed
• Must work well independently and as part of a team
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and be able to professionally engage with internal teams, government sponsors, partners, and other stakeholders while effectively managing expectations
• Ability and desire to continue learning new skills as system needs grow and change
• Willing to perform maintenance and support on systems outside of core hours (on-call) as required
• Must be willing to travel if required (2-3 times annually)
• Must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Security Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• 10 years of IT systems administrator experience
• 5+ years experience with containerized platforms (e.g., Kubernetes, OpenShift, Containerization, Docker/Podman)
• BS degree or equivalent experience in information technology, computer science, information systems, engineering, or related computer field
• Hands-on experience with virtualization platforms such as Red Hat Virtualization (RHV), VMware vSphere, or KVM/QEMU, including VM provisioning, resource allocation, snapshots, and performance tuning
• Experience with automated software system deployment and use of infrastructure as code (e.g., Ansible)
• Familiar with databases (e.g., Postgres, MySQL) and Linux web services (e.g., Apache)
• Practical knowledge of deploying and supporting VDI solutions (e.g., HP Anyware, Red Hat VDI, VMware Horizon, or Citrix), including image management, user profile configuration, and troubleshooting connectivity and performance issues.
• Experience managing offline software repositories
• Knowledge of DoD Security Requirements within classified spaces
• Understanding of information systems security best practices and use of security tools such as Nessus, SCAP, and applying STIGs
• Comfortable with using the Atlassian suite (Confluence, Jira, etc.)
• Possession of RHCSA and Red Hat Certified OpenShift Administrator certifications is considered an asset
• Active Security Clearance

Salary Range

• Level II: $87,000-$107,000
  • 9-14 years of applicable experience with related certification OR
  • 5-10 years of applicable experience with BS in Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field OR
  • 3-8 years of applicable experience with MS in Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field
• Level III: $105,000-$125,000
  • 14+ years of applicable experience with related certification OR
  • 10+ years of applicable experience with BS in Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field OR
  • 8+ years of applicable experience with MS in Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field

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 posting 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. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 14 days. However, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly .

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.