Senior Linux System Administrator

LA International; Reading; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

LA International is seeking a Senior Linux System Administrator for an onsite role near Reading on a six-month initial contract. The position requires DV clearance and entails administering Linux environments, managing VMware vSphere, and developing automation with Ansible.

The candidate will troubleshoot OS, network, performance, and storage issues, ensure security patching and compliance, and document procedures. Mentoring junior staff and cross-team collaboration are part of the role.

Qualifications

• Experience administering Linux server environments (RHEL/ Rocky or similar)
• Experience with VMware vSphere/ESXi administration
• Hands-on automation using Ansible or similar tools
• Scripting skills in Bash
• Working knowledge of Windows Server fundamentals
• Experience with Git or CI/CD pipelines
• Knowledge of container technologies (Docker, Podman)
• Experience with monitoring tools (Prometheus, Grafana, CheckMK)

Responsibilities

• Administer, maintain, and improve Linux server environments across production and development platforms.
• Support VMware vSphere environments, including VM, resource allocation, and host configuration.
• Develop and maintain automation solutions, preferably using Ansible.
• Troubleshoot OS, networking, performance, and storage issues.
• Support interoperability with Windows Server systems.
• Implement patching, security hardening, and compliance standards.
• Maintain documentation including configuration guides and procedures.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to junior team members.

Skills

Linux administration

Windows Server fundamentals

Networking & storage

Shell scripting (Bash)

Tools

VMware vSphere/ESXi

Ansible

Git / CI/CD pipelines

Docker/Podman

Prometheus/Grafana/CheckMK

Job description

Our client is looking for a DV cleared Senior Linux System Administrator to work onsite near Reading on a six month initial contract. This role requires DV clearance.

Responsibilities

• Administer, maintain, and improve Linux server environments across production and development platforms.
• Support and manage VMware vSphere environments, including virtual machines, resource allocation, and host configuration.
• Develop and maintain automation solutions, preferably using Ansible, to streamline deployments, configuration, and routine tasks.
• Troubleshoot complex issues related to OS, networking, performance, and storage.
• Support interoperability with Windows Server systems where required.
• Implement patching, security hardening, and compliance standards following organisational policies.
• Maintain accurate documentation, including configuration guides and operational procedures.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to junior team members.

Skills Required

• Strong experience with Linux administration (RHEL, Rocky or similar).
• Solid understanding networking, storage and permissions.
• Experience with VMware vSphere/ESXi administration.
• Hands-on experience with Ansible or similar automation tools.
• Proficiency in shell scripting (Bash).
• Working knowledge of Windows Server fundamentals.
• Experience with Git or CI/CD pipelines.
• Knowledge of container technologies (Docker, Podman).
• Experience with monitoring tools (Prometheus, Grafana, CheckMK).

Due to the nature and urgency of this post, candidates holding or who have held high level security clearance in the past are most welcome to apply. Please note successful applicants will be required to be security cleared prior to appointment which can take a minimum 18 weeks.

An award-winning organisation, having secured the prestigious Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade over multiple years. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background or identity, and we encourage candidates who may not meet every listed requirement to still apply. If you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure a fair and accessible experience.

Please Note: If a high volume of applications is received, only candidates shortlisted will be contacted.