External Job Posting Title Linux Systems Administrator

Peraton; Silver Spring, Northern (MD, KY); Hybrid; USD 112,000 - 179,000; Full time

Job summary

Peraton is seeking a Linux Systems Administrator with an active TS/SCI clearance to support mission-critical operations in secure Linux environments. You will deploy, configure, and harden systems, perform vulnerability remediation, and ensure RMF/STIG compliance across RHEL/CentOS/Ubuntu platforms.

The role emphasizes continuous monitoring, patch management, and collaboration with IA and network teams to maintain uptime and security for essential government applications.

Qualifications

• Active TS eligibility for SCI is required.
• 5 years with BS/BA or 3 years with MS/MA in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• 3-5+ years managing Linux environments in classified, secure settings.
• Proficiency with Linux operating systems (Ubuntu, RedHat).
• Understanding of system security requirements in DoD or Intelligence domains (e.g., STIGs, RMF).

Responsibilities

• Perform continuous monitoring of systems and vulnerability mitigation using Nessus.
• Deploy, configure, and secure Linux servers and desktops (RHEL/CentOS/Ubuntu).
• Harden systems using STIGs or RMF guidance.
• Apply patches, updates, and test changes in prod and dev environments.
• Document vulnerability findings and support security audits.
• Collaborate with IA and network teams to integrate Linux environments.

Skills

Active TS eligibility for SCI

Linux system administration

Security compliance

Education

BS/BA in Computer Science or related field

MS/MA in Computer Science or related field

Tools

KVM virtualization

Docker

Ansible

Puppet

Chef

RHCSA

Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking a Linux Systems Administrator with an active TS or TS/SCI clearance to join our team supporting mission-critical operations. The ideal candidate will manage, maintain, and enhance secure Linux-based environments while ensuring uptime and performance for essential applications. The candidate will be working closely with IA team supporting Continuous Monitoring tasks, enforcing cybersecurity compliance, and addressing vulnerabilities identified through Nessus scans. This role involves configuring and maintaining Linux servers and desktops, implementing security mitigations, and ensuring compliance with government standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Continuous Monitoring & Vulnerability Mitigation:
  • Perform continuous monitoring of systems using vulnerability scanning tools likeTenable Nessus.
  • Identify and analyze vulnerabilities from weekly and monthly scans.
  • Mitigate identified vulnerabilities by reconfiguring Linux servers and desktops or applying patches, security updates, and configuration changes.
  • Track, document, and report vulnerability remediation activities to ensure ongoing compliance with Risk Management Framework (RMF) or Intelligence Community standards.
• Linux System Administration:
  • Deploy, Configure, maintain, and secureLinux-based servers and desktops (RHEL, CentOS, Ubuntu).
  • Configure networking services such as DNS, DHCP, and NFS.
  • Manage user accounts, permissions, and authentication in compliance with security policies.
  • Harden systems using existing guidelines such as Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) or custom configurations.
  • Apply and test kernel updates, package upgrades, and security patches in production and development environments.
  • Monitor Linux systems for performance, security, and availability, resolving issues proactively.
  • Implement and maintain system backup and disaster recovery procedures.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support system integration and deployment efforts.
  • Stay current with technological advancements and recommend improvements as necessary.
• Documentation & Auditing:
  • Maintain detailed system configuration documentation.
  • Document vulnerability findings, mitigations, and resolutions in tickets or compliance reports.
  • Support security audits by providing technical information and collaborating with the Information Assurance teams.
• Collaboration:
  • Work closely with the Information Assurance (IA) and Cybersecurity teams to ensure systems meet security requirements.
  • Collaborate with network administrators and application teams to integrate Linux environments supporting enterprise solutions.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Active TS eligibility for SCI
• 5 years with BS/BA or 3 years with MS/MA degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• 3-5+ years of experience managing Linux environments in classified, secure settings.
• Proficiency with Linux operating systems (Ubuntu, RedHat),
• Understanding of system security requirements in DoD or Intelligence domains (e.g., STIGs, RMF).

Bonus/Preferred Qualifications:

• Previously worked in SAP environments with SAP systems
• Experience with virtualization technologies (KVM, Red Hat, Proxmox,).
• Familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet, Chef).
• Knowledge of containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Certifications: Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), ITIL, or equivalent.
• Experience with shell scripting or automation tools (Bash, Python, etc.) to streamline administrative and cybersecurity tasks.
• Skilled with automating patch and vulnerability remediation via tools likeAnsible,Puppet, orChef

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world’s leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can’t be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we’re keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range

$112,000 - $179,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

EEO

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.