Linux Systems Administrator

cai; Illinois; Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

CAI, a global services firm, invites applications for a Linux Systems Administrator to support enterprise Linux infrastructure, automated patching, and cybersecurity initiatives. The role is full-time, hybrid in Evanston, IL, with a 35-hour workweek and potential contract-to-hire.

No sponsorship will be provided now or in the future. The candidate should have 4–6 years in Linux administration, experience with Red Hat Satellite, Uyuni, SaltStack, and Spacewalk, plus scripting in Bash/Python and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related technical discipline required.
• 4–6 years Linux Systems Administration experience required.
• 2–4 years desktop, network, hardware, and software support experience required.
• Experience with enterprise Linux environments: RHEL, CentOS, SUSE.
• Experience managing Red Hat Satellite Server for patching and updates.
• Experience with automated Linux patching and update solutions.

Responsibilities

• Support client user applications and programs.
• Manage setup, configuration, upgrade, and ongoing administration of automated Linux patching platforms.
• Maintain patching schedules and keep Linux servers and VMs current with security updates.
• Monitor availability and proactively address performance or reliability issues.
• Plan and implement network security measures to protect systems and data.
• Perform server upgrades, deployments, and software installations as required.
• Collaborate with IT teams to coordinate patching and minimize disruption.
• Design, configure, test, and maintain hardware, networking software, and OSs.
• Participate in on‑call rotation and provide 24x7 support for critical incidents.

Skills

Linux administration

Cybersecurity basics

Documentation

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science

Tools

Uyuni

SaltStack

Spacewalk

Red Hat Satellite

Python scripting

Job description

Linux Systems Administrator

Req number: R8595 Employment type: Full time Worksite flexibility: Hybrid

Who we are

CAI is a global services firm with over 9,000 associates worldwide and a yearly revenue of $1.3 billion. We have over 40 years of excellence in uniting talent and technology to power the possible for our clients, colleagues, and communities. As a privately held company, we have the freedom and focus to do what is right-whatever it takes. Our tailor-made solutions create lasting results across the public and commercial sectors, and we are trailblazers in bringing neurodiversity to the enterprise.

Job Summary

We are looking for a motivated Linux Systems Administrator ready to take us to the next level! If you have Linux system administration, automated patch management, and cybersecurity experience and are looking for your next career move.

Job Description

We are looking for a Linux Systems Administrator to support and maintain enterprise Linux infrastructure, automated patching solutions, server availability, and cybersecurity initiatives across a complex IT environment. This position will be Full-Time and Onsite in Evanston, Illinois. This is a 35-hour per week contract (potential for contract to hire). Only work authorizations that will not require sponsorship now or in the future will be considered.

What You’ll Do

• Support all client user applications and programs
• Manage the setup, configuration, upgrade, and ongoing administration of automated Linux patching platforms, including Uyuni and related technologies
• Maintain patching schedules and ensure Linux servers and virtual machines remain current with security and operational updates
• Monitor application, server, and infrastructure availability and proactively address performance or reliability issues
• Plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures to protect systems, applications, and data
• Perform server upgrades, technology deployments, and software installations as required
• Recommend and implement improvements to system, server, and network configurations
• Execute data backup, restoration, and disaster recovery procedures
• Maintain, review, and analyze network, application, and system logs
• Perform routine startup, shutdown, maintenance, and operational procedures while ensuring adherence to internal controls
• Collaborate closely with IT teams to coordinate patching schedules and minimize business disruption
• Design, configure, test, and maintain computer hardware, networking software, and operating systems
• Participate in an on‑call rotation and provide 24x7 support for critical IT incidents
• Perform additional duties as assigned

What You’ll Need

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related technical discipline
• 4-6 years of Linux Systems Administration experience
• 2-4 years of desktop, network, hardware, and software support experience
• Experience supporting enterprise Linux environments including Red Hat Enterprise Linux, CentOS, and SUSE Linux
• Experience managing Red Hat Satellite Server for automated patching, content management, and system updates
• Experience implementing and maintaining automated Linux patching and update solutions
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and best practices for servers, networks, and endpoints
• Experience monitoring Linux systems and ensuring compliance with internal security and operational standards
• Knowledge of network administration, system troubleshooting, and infrastructure support
• Experience creating and maintaining detailed technical documentation and operational procedures
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment

Preferred

• Experience with Uyuni infrastructure and configuration management platforms
• Experience with SaltStack configuration management and orchestration
• Experience with Spacewalk Linux systems management
• Proficiency with Bash and Python scripting for automation
• Cybersecurity experience involving ransomware and malware detection, prevention, and remediation
• Knowledge of networking, access control, firewalls, encryption, disaster recovery, and business continuity practices
• Experience integrating systems through APIs and XML‑RPC
• Knowledge of software licensing administration
• Database administration experience with PostgreSQL, SQL Server, DB2, or similar platforms
• Experience supporting VMware‑based virtualized environments
• Familiarity with mixed technology environments including Windows, .NET, Java, and AS/400 systems

Physical Demands

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA and other federal, state, and local standards
• Ability to conduct repetitive tasks on a computer, utilizing a mouse, keyboard, and monitor
• Must be able to communicate with customers/team members over the phone and in person
• Sedentary work that involves sitting or remaining stationary most of the time with occasional need to move around the office to attend meetings