Linux Systems Engineer (VM & Cloud Operations)

CACI; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 104,000 - 218,000; Full time

Job summary

CACI seeks a Linux Systems Engineer to manage and improve Linux‑based VM environments across OpenStack, VMware, and AWS. You will apply Kubernetes and DevOps practices, automate with Ansible, and ensure high availability for critical mission systems.

You will deepen expertise in VM management, container orchestration, and secure system hardening while collaborating with developers and security teams to maintain compliance and reliability.

Qualifications

• Strong troubleshooting skills, including analysis of VM and application logs.
• Proficiency with Linux administration (RHEL 8/9).
• Experience with Kubernetes, Docker, and Rancher in production environments.
• Familiarity with Apache NiFi or similar integration/dataflow tools.
• Working knowledge of Ansible for automation and configuration management.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and administer production Linux VMs (RHEL 8/9) across OpenStack, VMware, and AWS environments.
• Monitor VM and Kubernetes cluster health using Rancher or native Kubernetes commands, ensuring nodes and pods operate smoothly.
• Manage the full certificate lifecycle (server & PKI) and maintain compliance with current security standards (STIG/SSP).
• Apply patches, updates, and system hardening using YUM and enterprise repositories.
• Support Apache NiFi deployments, including configuration updates, dataflow monitoring, and troubleshooting connectivity or resource issues.
• Maintain and enhance Ansible playbooks to automate configuration changes and system operations.
• Collaborate with development teams and end users to perform configuration changes and support new cluster builds.
• Analyze logs and troubleshoot performance issues to diagnose and resolve VM, container, or application‑level problems.
• Ensure all systems meet up‑to‑date security and compliance requirements.

Skills

Linux admin

VM management

Kubernetes

Ansible

Security hardening

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

OpenStack

AWS

Rancher

Job description

Job Title: Linux Systems Engineer (VM & Cloud Operations)

Job Category: Information Technology

Time Type: Full time

Minimum Clearance Required to Start: TS/SCI with Polygraph

Employee Type: Regular

Percentage of Travel Required: None

Type of Travel: None

The Opportunity

CACI is seeking a Systems Engineer for a hands‑on engineering role where will support, manage, and improve Linux‑based virtual environments across multiple hosting platforms. You'll deepen your expertise in VM management, DevOps practices, Kubernetes operations, and automation-while contributing directly to secure, high‑availability systems that power critical mission needs. This role offers continuous learning, collaboration with development teams, and the chance to work with modern cloud and container technologies.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and administer production Linux VMs (RHEL 8/9) across OpenStack, VMware, and AWS environments.
• Monitor VM and Kubernetes cluster health using Rancher or native Kubernetes commands, ensuring nodes and pods operate smoothly.
• Manage the full certificate lifecycle (server & PKI) and maintain compliance with current security standards (STIG/SSP).
• Apply patches, updates, and system hardening using YUM and enterprise repositories.
• Support Apache NiFi deployments, including configuration updates, dataflow monitoring, and troubleshooting connectivity or resource issues.
• Maintain and enhance Ansible playbooks to automate configuration changes and system operations.
• Collaborate with development teams and end users to perform configuration changes and support new cluster builds.
• Analyze logs and troubleshoot performance issues to diagnose and resolve VM, container, or application‑level problems.
• Ensure all systems meet up‑to‑date security and compliance requirements.

Qualifications (Required)

• Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph
• Education & Experience (To qualify, experience and education must be in a directly related technical field from accredited institutions.)
• High School Diploma/GED + 12 years of relevant experience
• Associate's Degree + 10 years
• Bachelor's Degree + 8 years
• Master's Degree + 6 years
• Doctorate + 4 years
• Strong troubleshooting skills, including analysis of VM and application logs.
• Proficiency with Linux administration (RHEL 8/9).
• Experience with Kubernetes, Docker, and Rancher in production environments.
• Familiarity with Apache NiFi or similar integration/dataflow tools.
• Working knowledge of Ansible for automation and configuration management.
• Hands‑on experience managing VMs in OpenStack, VMware, or AWS.
• Ability to diagnose SSH, performance, and network‑related issues in Linux environments.
• Experience implementing security hardening (STIG, STE/STN) and maintaining compliance documentation (SSP).
• Experience with network flow monitoring tools.
• Active Security+ certification.

Desired Qualifications

• Red Hat certification.
• Knowledge of Python.
• Experience with MongoDB.
• Additional Kubernetes/Docker expertise.
• Familiarity with Riverbed technologies.

What You Can Expect:

A culture of integrity.

At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high‑performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.

An environment of trust.

CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.

A focus on continuous growth.

Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.

Pay Range :

There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.

The proposed salary range for this position is:

$103,800 - $218,100

CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characterist