Linux Systems Specialist

J.D. Irving, Limited; Fredericton, Dieppe, Halifax; On-site; CAD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

J.D. Irving, Limited in Canada is seeking a Systems Specialist to join the Cloud and Data Center team. You will maintain Linux-based systems and services, design and implement deployments, and ensure security and reliability.

This full-time on-site role requires 3–8 years in enterprise IT, experience with RHEL/CentOS/Debian, scripting, AD integration, virtualization, and monitoring. The team emphasizes collaboration and professional growth in a large, multi-division environment.

Qualifications

• University degree or college diploma in a related discipline.
• 3–8 years of experience in enterprise IT systems environments.
• Strong knowledge of Linux operating systems (RHEL/CentOS/Debian) and shell scripting.

Responsibilities

• Design, deploy, and maintain Linux-based systems and services.
• Collaborate with architects and engineers to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
• Automate provisioning and configuration management.
• Ensure system reliability through monitoring and capacity planning.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineers.
• Maintain documentation and system standards.

Skills

Linux administration

Shell scripting

AD integration

Virtualization

Monitoring & logging

Customer service

Education

University degree or college diploma

Tools

VMware

Hyper-V

Active Directory

Job description

Job Description The Systems Specialist is a collaborative and key member of the Cloud and Data Center team. This position supports and maintains the full lifecycle of Linux-based systems and services to meet business and operational requirements, following internal standards and industry best practices.

Job Description

The Systems Specialist is a collaborative and key member of the Cloud and Data Center team. This position supports and maintains the full lifecycle of Linux-based systems and services to meet business and operational requirements, following internal standards and industry best practices. Now is your chance to join our team and make a lasting impact as a Systems Specialist.

All successful applicants must meet requirements for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP), Canadian Government Security Clearance, and U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). This position requires full-time on-site presence.

Responsibilities

• Design, deploy, and maintain secure, scalable, and highly available Linux-based systems and services
• Collaborate with architects, application teams, and infrastructure partners to translate business requirements into technical solutions
• Install, configure, and support enterprise Linux operating systems and core services
• Automate system provisioning, configuration, and maintenance using scripting and configuration management tools
• Ensure system reliability and performance through monitoring, alerting, and proactive capacity planning
• Perform root cause analysis and implement permanent fixes for system incidents and outages
• Apply system hardening, patching, and vulnerability remediation in alignment with security and compliance standards
• Support virtualization, storage, and backup integrations within Linux environments
• Maintain documentation, operational procedures, and system standards
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers

Qualifications

• Education Required: University degree, college diploma, or related discipline
• 3-8 years in enterprise IT systems environments

Knowledge / Experience in:

• Linux operating systems (e.g., RHEL, CentOS, Debian
• Shell scripting and automation
• Active Directory integration (LDAP, Kerberos, SSSD)
• Virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V)
• Microsoft Server Operating Systems
• Monitoring and logging tools
• Familiarity with hybrid environments and integration with cloud platforms is an asset
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• High attention to detail with the ability to adapt to changing priorities
• Proven ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment

Bonus

• Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) or equivalent Linux certification
• ITIL Foundations Certification
• Six Sigma - Yellow Belt Certification

About Us

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions. We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities. Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you still apply. Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly. We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

About The Team

The belief that what people experience matters more than technology is part of our foundational core. We also believe that our ability as a team grows exponentially when we share success. These centering values – some of our non-negotiables - guide our decisions and inform how we show up daily. Join a team that aims to simplify the path forward and inspire commitment. With over 380 employees centralized in Saint John, Fredericton, Dieppe and Halifax, we offerthe opportunity to create real value by helping people and businesses work smarter. JDI IT supports the entire J.D. Irving Limited group of companies which means we offer opportunities and experiences across a wide breadth of IT areas, businesses and industries. As a member of the JDI IT team, you will be a key player in enabling the business to win by overcoming obstacles and “getting it done”! We believe in the power of diverse teams and invest in continuous professional growth. We are seeking naturally curious change makers looking to join a collaborative and motivated team. Come help JDI IT Raise the Bar!