Linux Engineer / System Administrator

Sanderson Government & Defence; England; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence solutions provider in the UK is seeking a Linux Engineer / System Administrator to support secure operational systems for high-profile clients. This role offers a flexible hybrid working model, excellent progression routes, and the chance to work on sensitive projects requiring UK Security Check clearance. You will be responsible for Linux system administration and proactive system maintenance. Ideal candidates will have strong Linux experience and a problem-solving mindset.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in Linux system administration, preferably with Red Hat.
• Familiarity with server lifecycle and patch management tools.
• Active UK Security Check (SC) clearance or higher required.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert administration and support for secure Linux-based operational systems.
• Perform proactive system maintenance, including patching and updates.
• Monitor server and infrastructure health, addressing performance issues.
• Deliver second-line technical support and perform root cause analysis.
• Participate in an out-of-hours on-call rota when required.

Skills

Linux system administration (Red Hat preferred)

Server lifecycle and patch management tools

Basic understanding of Cisco networking

Exposure to Infrastructure as Code tools like Puppet

Job description

Linux Engineer / System Administrator

We are seeking a Linux Engineer / System Administrator to support secure and mission-critical operational systems for high-profile clients across National Security. This is an excellent opportunity to join a business with a strong engineering pedigree, working in small, highly capable teams delivering impactful outcomes in critical environments.

You’ll benefit from a flexible hybrid working model, clear progression routes, and the opportunity to shape your career as the organisation continues to grow. For the right candidate, there is also the potential to gain Developed Vetting (DV/eDV), opening doors to some of the most sensitive and rewarding projects in the UK.

Salary: £25,000 - £45,000 per annum (+ bonuses)

Location: Gloucester preferred (other offices considered)

Working Pattern: Flexible hybrid working, split between office, client sites, and home

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert administration and support for secure Linux-based operational systems
• Perform proactive system maintenance, including patching, updates, and firmware deployments
• Monitor server and infrastructure health, troubleshooting performance issues and outages
• Deliver second-line technical support and carry out root cause analysis for production incidents
• Participate in an out-of-hours on-call rota when required

Essential Skills

• Strong experience in Linux system administration (Red Hat preferred)
• Familiarity with server lifecycle and patch management tools (e.g., Foreman, Dell OME)

Desirable Skills

• Basic understanding of Cisco networking
• Exposure to Infrastructure as Code tools such as Puppet

Security Clearance Requirement

Due to the nature of the work, applicants must hold an active UK Security Check (SC) clearance or higher and must be eligible to obtain Enhanced Developed Vetting (eDV). This typically requires applicants to be sole British nationals.

If you are a motivated Linux professional with a problem-solving mindset and an interest in secure environments, we’d love to hear from you.

Reasonable Adjustments

Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients.

If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.