Linux Systems Technician

SMS Data Products Group, Inc.; Edwards (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

SMS Data Products Group, Inc. is seeking a Linux Systems Technician to support the ARTEMIS team at Edwards Air Force Base, CA. The role focuses on Linux system administration, security compliance, and infrastructure development to support AFRL missions.

The position requires experience with Linux, STIG/SRG guidelines, and DoD certifications, working within a mixed classified and unclassified environment. On-site work at Edwards AFB is expected.

Qualifications

• Experience administering Linux systems in complex IT environments.
• Familiarity with security guidelines and STIG/SRG compliance.
• Ability to troubleshoot across hardware, software, and network layers.

Responsibilities

• Provide hardware, software, and network support on Linux systems.
• Work with vendors and third-party providers to resolve issues.
• Configure and maintain system hardening tools.
• Ensure compliance with DOD SRG and STIG guidelines.
• Develop and maintain testing frameworks for Linux software.
• Develop hosting platform for common software.
• Build infrastructure for networked Linux boxes (SSO, LDAP, SAN, accounts).
• Install and verify open-source software per guidelines.
• Apply STIG/SRG configurations and security patches.
• Provide professional customer service and communications.

Skills

Linux system administration

Network concepts

Troubleshooting

Security best practices

Education

CompTIA Linux+ certification

Red Hat Enterprise Administrator certification

Tools

Puppet

Job description

SMS is looking for a Linux Systems Technician to support our ARTEMIS team. ARTEMIS VI provides comprehensive Information Technology support services to the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Edwards Air Force Base, California. The team supports more than 500 personnel across both classified and unclassified research environments, ensuring the availability, security, and reliability of critical IT systems that enable the AFRL mission.
The contract includes a wide range of technical and administrative support functions, including Service Desk operations, Windows and Linux systems administration, SQL database administration, cybersecurity and Risk Management Framework (RMF) support, software management and testing, SharePoint administration, field services, telecommunications support, video teleconferencing (VTC), knowledge management, and process improvement initiatives.
Since 1976, SMS has specialized in modernizing legacy IT and sustaining complex enterprise environments for federal agencies. With the goal of building long-term partnerships with our customers, we invest in our employees by providing the training, tools, and support they need to keep critical missions operational, improve performance, and reduce risk. SMS is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, with offices and on-site operations at customer locations throughout the United States. For additional information on SMS, visit www.sms.com .

Job Responsibilities

• Provide hardware, software, and network support and troubleshooting on systems running the Linux operating systems.
• Work directly with vendors and third-party service providers tapping into their knowledge base.
• Configure and maintain system hardening tools.
• Utilize the DOD Security Requirements Guide (SRG) and DOD Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG) to ensure compliance.
• Develop and maintain software testing framework for Linux software.
• Develop and maintain software hosting platform for common software.
• Develop robust infrastructure for networked Linux boxes (SSO, LDAP, SAN Access, Common Accounts, shared space, etc.).
• Provide expert support for planning, configuring, and installing open-source software.
• Verify installed software behaves as intended and complies with security guidelines.
• Apply Puppet configuration management tools to maintain standard desktop configurations (SDC).
• Manually install software updates, apply STIG & SRG configurations and security patches as required.
• Provide customer service with friendly, courteous, and professional oral and written communication.

Required Qualifications

• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in Linux system administration and/or technical support.
• In-depth knowledge and experience with all phases of operating systems, hardware, software applications, and networking concepts.
• Must have at least one platform certification such as CompTIA Linux + or Red Hat Enterprise Administrator.
• DOD 8140 IAT-II certification (CompTIA Security+CE).
• DOD Interim Secret security clearance or higher.

SMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.