Linux System Administrator

Bridge Defense; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

Bridge Defense seeks a Linux Systems Administrator to support the N6 IT Fleet Weather Center San Diego. The role focuses on system administration, security controls, and compliance for METOC-focused environments in both classified and unclassified networks.

Required DoD and CSWF certifications, strong Linux skills, and experience with RHEL, patching, auditing, and vulnerability remediation help protect critical Navy missions. This onsite position in San Diego offers secure, mission-focused work.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of Linux system administration and cybersecurity best practices.

Responsibilities

• Administer, maintain, and support Linux-based operating systems, web servers, databases, and enterprise applications.
• Install, patch, configure, and maintain Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems.
• Maintain operational readiness of hardware, software, and networked information systems.
• Provide desktop and server support for users operating on classified and unclassified networks.
• Develop, test, document, implement, and maintain PHP scripts and automated web-based data distribution solutions.
• Perform system monitoring, log analysis, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
• Implement and maintain cybersecurity controls in accordance with DoD and Department of the Navy requirements.
• Support vulnerability management, remediation efforts, security testing, and compliance reporting activities.
• Assist with information assurance assessments and security control implementation.
• Support change management activities, system upgrades, and infrastructure modernization initiatives.
• Maintain system documentation, configuration baselines, turnover documentation, and standard operating procedures.
• Support ISSMs/ISSEs with cybersecurity compliance activities.
• Review audit logs and security events to identify risks.
• Assist with PKI implementation and management.
• Research and apply DoD/DoN cybersecurity policies and guidance.
• Provide technical recommendations to improve security and availability.
• Support FW CSD and mission partners as required.

Skills

Linux system administration

Cybersecurity

CSWF certification

DoD 8570/8140 IAT II

Security+ CE

Education

Bachelor's degree in IT/CS/C Cybersecurity/Engineering

Tools

Red Hat Enterprise Linux

Scripting

Job description

About Bridge Defense.

Bridge Defense is redefining how modern defense technology is delivered. Based in Washington, D.C., we are built for the dynamic mission environment facing the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and federal law enforcement agencies. We provide full-spectrum national security solutions that combine secure infrastructure, cleared talent, and mission-ready software to meet evolving defense challenges. Our services include secure software development in classified environments and the design and implementation of advanced IT and cybersecurity capabilities ranging from secure cloud architectures and enterprise infrastructure to data center operations, scientific analysis, cutting-edge cyber defense, and intelligence analysis.

We are led by technologists and veterans with firsthand mission experience, which enables us to understand both the operational realities and the innovation needed to succeed. Our approach is agile and outcome-based, delivering results in weeks rather than months whenever possible.

At Bridge Defense we value people, integrity, and excellence. We foster an environment where innovation thrives in support of traditional mission requirements. Our team members receive competitive compensation, robust benefits, professional development and certification opportunities, and clear paths for growth while working on the nation’s most critical projects.

Core Values:

• Innovation & Responsiveness : We push beyond legacy models with efficient, tech-led solutions built to scale and evolve.
• Trusted Performance : Security, compliance, and deep experience in delivering to demanding environments guides all we do.
• Mission Focused Expertise : From veteran leadership to cleared engineers, our people understand both the technology and the mission.

Summary:

Bridge Defense seeks a Linux Systems Administrator to support the N6 IT Fleet Weather Center San Diego (FWCSD) department as it relates to system administration requirements and compliance. FWC-SD provides an asymmetric warfighting advantage to Fleet Forces through application of METOC forecasts, warnings, and recommendations for Fleet Commanders afloat and facilities ashore in support of asset protection responsibilities and risk management decisions. The recent loss of personnel at FWC San Diego are an untenable reduction in the number of qualified and certified members of the Cyber Security Workforce (CSWF). Therefore, the Command requires a Linux System Administrator support with the CSWF certification. These services are required to ensure the ability to be responsive, timely, and flexible without sacrificing the quality of meteorological and oceanographic (METOC) products and services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Administer, maintain, and support Linux-based operating systems, web servers, databases, and enterprise applications.
• Install, patch, configure, and maintain Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems.
• Maintain operational readiness of hardware, software, and networked information systems.
• Provide desktop and server support for users operating on classified and unclassified networks.
• Develop, test, document, implement, and maintain PHP scripts and automated web-based data distribution solutions.
• Perform system monitoring, log analysis, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
• Implement and maintain cybersecurity controls in accordance with DoD and Department of the Navy requirements.
• Support vulnerability management, remediation efforts, security testing, and compliance reporting activities.
• Assist with information assurance assessments and security control implementation.
• Support change management activities, system upgrades, and infrastructure modernization initiatives.
• Maintain system documentation, configuration baselines, turnover documentation, and standard operating procedures.
• Support Information Systems Security Managers (ISSMs) and Information Systems Security Engineers (ISSEs) with cybersecurity compliance activities.
• Review, analyze, and interpret audit logs and security events to identify risks and potential security incidents.
• Assist with public key infrastructure (PKI) implementation and management activities.
• Research, interpret, and apply DoD and Department of the Navy cybersecurity policies, directives, and guidance.
• Provide technical recommendations to improve system security, availability, and operational effectiveness.
• Support Fleet Weather Center San Diego and associated mission partners as required.

Required Qualifications, Education, and Experience:

Qualifications:

• Active Secret security clearance with the ability to maintain access (with T5 background).
• DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II or IAM Level II certification (e.g., Security+ CE).
• Cybersecurity Workforce (CSWF) certification.
• Strong knowledge of Linux system administration and cybersecurity best practices.
• Experience supporting classified information systems and compliance requirements.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in information technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, or related field. Equivalent military training and relevant experience may be substituted.

Experience:

• Experience administering Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) 7 and/or 8 environments.
• Experience supporting enterprise IT infrastructure, information assurance, and cybersecurity compliance activities.
• Experience with system patching, vulnerability remediation, and security auditing.
• Experience supporting web servers, databases, and scripting solutions.

Desired Qualifications, Education, and Experience:

Qualifications:

• Familiarity with Navy, DoD, and Department of the Navy cybersecurity requirements.
• Knowledge of Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs), RMF, and cybersecurity compliance frameworks.
• Experience supporting meteorological, scientific, operational, or mission-critical systems.

Education:

• Advanced degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or related discipline.

Experience:

• Experience supporting Navy or Department of Defense organizations.
• Experience with automation, scripting, and web application development.
• Experience supporting PKI environments and cybersecurity testing initiatives.
• Experience working within highly regulated operational environments.

The Successful Candidate will Possess:

• Strong risk management skills and a commitment to cybersecurity best practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to prioritize competing requirements and mission-critical tasks.
• Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and make sound technical decisions.
• Strong collaboration and teamwork skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Technically curious and committed to continuous learning and professional development.
• Ability to develop and maintain technical documentation, SOPs, and operational procedures.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and mission requirements.

General Factors:

• Position is located onsite at Fleet Weather Center San Diego, NAS North Island, San Diego, California.
• Depending on project requirements, overtime may be required to meet mission and operational needs.
• Limited travel may be required.
• No relocation assistance is available.
• Must be able to sit and/or stand for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
• Must be able to multitask and rapidly adjust priorities with limited notice.

Clearance:

Active Secret security clearance with the ability to maintain access (with T5 background)

Salary Range:

140K - 155K

Bridge Defense is an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression, national origin or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you are a qualified disabled veteran or individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to use or access our online system, please contact us at 202-436-9222.

The pay range for this role is:

140,000 - 155,000 USD per year (San Diego, CA)