Linux Server Administrator

MANTECH; Quantico (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

MANTECH in Quantico, VA seeks a motivated Linux Server Administrator to support mission-critical DoW IT infrastructure. You will install, configure, and maintain Linux-based server environments (RHEL/Ubuntu) on classified and unclassified networks, under senior engineering guidance.

The role emphasizes security compliance (STIGs, RMF), vulnerability management, and ongoing system health monitoring, with opportunities to use automation (Bash, Python, Ansible) and to work with VMware environments

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related technical field with 2-3 years of IT/Linux experience, or 4-5 years of equivalent hands-on IT/Linux experience without a degree.
• 1-2 years of hands-on experience in Linux systems administration (entry-to-mid level), preferably in a federal or DoD environment.
• Active IAT Level II baseline certification (e.g., CompTIA Security+ CE, CCNA Security, or equivalent).
• Basic understanding of fundamental Linux tools and administrative services (NFS, DNS, SSH, user/group management).
• Working knowledge or training in Linux systems (holding or working toward a CompTIA Linux+ or RHCSA certification is a plus).

Responsibilities

• Assist with the installation, configuration, and day-to-day maintenance of Linux operating systems (including Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Ubuntu) across physical and virtual (VMware) environments under senior engineering guidance.
• Support compliance efforts by applying DoD Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs), executing routine vulnerability patching (IAVAs/IAVBs), and maintaining alignment with RMF standards.
• Monitor server health and system performance; provide Tier I/II technical support to diagnose and resolve standard hardware, software, and network configuration issues.
• Utilize and modify basic automation scripts (using Bash, Python, or Ansible) to execute routine administrative tasks and system checks.
• Update and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), system logs, and administrative documentation to support compliance and team operational continuity.

Skills

Bash scripting

Python scripting

Ansible

VMware

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field

Tools

NFS

DNS

SSH

ACAS

HBSS

Splunk

Job description

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented LINUX SERVER ADMINISTRATOR to join our team in QUANTICO, VA .

This position supports mission-critical Department of War (DoW) IT infrastructure. The contractor will assist with the installation, configuration, maintenance, and security of Linux-based server environments on classified and unclassified networks to ensure the availability and resilience of vital national security assets.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Assist with the installation, configuration, and day-to-day maintenance of Linux operating systems (including Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Ubuntu) across physical and virtual (VMware) environments under senior engineering guidance.
• Support compliance efforts by applying DoD Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs), executing routine vulnerability patching (IAVAs/IAVBs), and maintaining alignment with Risk Management Framework (RMF) standards.
• Monitor server health and system performance; provide Tier I/II technical support to diagnose and resolve standard hardware, software, and network configuration issues.
• Utilize and modify basic automation scripts (using Bash, Python, or Ansible) to execute routine administrative tasks and system checks.
• Update and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), system logs, and administrative documentation to support compliance and team operational continuity.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related technical field with 2-3 years of IT/Linux experience, or 4-5 years of equivalent hands‑on IT/Linux experience without a degree.
• 1-2 years of hands‑on experience in Linux systems administration (entry‑to‑mid level), preferably in a federal or DoD environment.
• Active IAT Level II baseline certification (e.g., CompTIA Security+ CE, CCNA Security, or equivalent).
• Basic understanding of fundamental Linux tools and administrative services (NFS, DNS, SSH, user/group management).
• Working knowledge or training in Linux systems (holding or working toward a CompTIA Linux+ or RHCSA certification is a plus).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Exposure to DoD security tools such as ACAS, HBSS/ESS, or Splunk.
• Exposure to basic scripting concepts (Bash, Python) or configuration tools (Ansible).
• Familiarity with virtualization basics (VMware vSphere).

Clearance Requirements:

• Must have an active Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance.

Physical Requirements:

• The person in this position must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.
• Occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, or to communicate with co‑workers, management, and customers via email, phone, or virtual communication tools.