Junior Linux Administrator

Job ID: 9477

Date Posted: September 15, 2026

Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a Linux Systems Administrator to support the operation, maintenance, and provisioning of Linux systems across the organization. This position will initially focus heavily on on-premises Linux administration, including system patching, user and group management, system provisioning, and general troubleshooting. The selected candidate may also provide application and end-user support as needed.

This is a growth-oriented position intended to develop broader Linux administration skills over time, including increased ownership of Linux infrastructure and eventual support of Linux workloads in Azure Government/GCC High environments. This position is on-site in North Logan, UT and may support both connected and air-gapped environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Performs routine patching, updates, and maintenance of Linux systems
• Provisions and configures new Linux servers and virtual machines
• Manages Linux user accounts, groups, permissions, and access
• Monitors system health and troubleshoots operating system, service, storage, and performance issues
• Supports RHEL, Rocky Linux, and Ubuntu systems
• Assists with Linux application installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and ongoing support
• Performs routine system administration tasks including service management, log review, filesystem management, and configuration changes
• Assists with vulnerability remediation and system hardening activities
• Maintains accurate system configurations and technical documentation
• Provides support for virtualized Linux systems
• Works with senior administrators and engineers to troubleshoot issues and implement infrastructure changes
• Participates in scheduled after-hours maintenance windows and responds to occasional after-hours system issues or call-ins
• Develops skills supporting Linux workloads in Azure Government/GCC High environments

Required Qualifications

• Must have 1+ years of professional Linux administration, IT infrastructure, technical support, or closely related experience and a bachelor's degree or an additional 5 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree
• Working knowledge of Linux system administration fundamentals
• Experience or demonstrated ability with Linux patching, software/package management, and system maintenance
• Experience managing Linux users, groups, permissions, and access
• Familiarity with provisioning and configuring Linux systems
• Ability to troubleshoot Linux operating system and application issues
• Ability to work in both connected and air-gapped environments
• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
• Valid CompTIA Security+ certification (or equivalent) is required or must be obtained within 30 days of hire
• Must be able to support scheduled after-hours maintenance and occasional call-ins
• Must be able to travel as needed (not a normal expectation)

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
• Experience with RHEL, Rocky Linux, and/or Ubuntu
• Linux+, RHCSA, or other relevant Linux certification
• Experience with Bash, Python, Ansible, or other scripting and automation tools
• Familiarity with Azure and Linux workloads hosted in Azure Government/GCC High
• Familiarity with VMware or other virtualization platforms
• Understanding of basic networking concepts including DNS, TCP/IP, routing, ports, and firewall rules
• Experience with Linux security hardening, vulnerability remediation, or DoW security requirements
• Familiarity with Docker, Podman, Kubernetes, or other container technologies
• Experience supporting applications or end users in a Linux environment
• Background supporting CMMC, NIST 800-53, or similar compliance frameworks
• Salary Range
• $68,000 - $97,000
• Salary commensurate on education and relevant experience

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 advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all U.S. 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 strive to 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 7 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.