Systems Administrator II - UNIX

Wake County Public School System; Cary (NC); Hybrid; USD 78,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

Wake County Public School System seeks a Systems Administrator II to manage Linux/AIX server environments, ensuring stability, security, and scalability across the district. The role provides expert guidance to junior staff and aligns with IT strategic plans.

Hybrid telework is available with a Monday–Friday schedule and occasional evenings. Strong collaboration with cross-functional teams and vendors is essential for district IT objectives.

Qualifications

• Experience administering Linux-based systems (Red Hat, Ubuntu, CentOS).
• Proficient in Bash scripting and automation tools.
• Knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, routing; web servers and DBs.
• Security best practices, backups, disaster recovery planning.
• Experience with cloud services and containerization is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and maintain Linux servers for reliability.
• Monitor performance, optimize systems, and resolve issues.
• Implement security patches and audits per policy.
• Manage backup solutions and disaster recovery planning.
• Develop automation scripts and use Ansible/Puppet/Chef.
• Lead projects and document configurations and procedures.
• Train and mentor junior staff; collaborate cross-functionally.

Skills

Linux administration

Shell scripting

Automation tools

Networking concepts

Web server and databases

Security and DR

Cloud services (AWS/Azure)

Docker/Kubernetes

Documentation

Project collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IT or related

5 years Systems Administrator/Linux focus

Tools

Ansible

Puppet

Chef

Apache/Nginx

MySQL/PostgreSQL

IPTables/Firewall

Job description

Overview

POSITION TITLE (Oracle title)

SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR II

WORKING TITLE

Systems Administrator II-UNIX

SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT

Technology Services Division

LOCATION

Crossroads II, Cary, NC

PAY GRADE

Technology Band Grade 27

FLSA STATUS

Exempt

ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT

No

WORK WEEK SCHEDULE

Monday-Friday (occasional evenings and weekends) Position is available for a Hybrid Telework workweek

POSITION PURPOSE:

Plays a critical role in managing, maintaining, and optimizing the Linux/AIX server environment across Wake County Public Schools (WCPSS). Responsible for ensuring the stability, reliability, and security of Linux-based systems to support the educational and administrative functions of the school district. Provides expert-level support and guidance to junior IT staff, implements best practices, and contributes to strategic IT planning.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

• Comprehensive knowledge of Linux distributions such as Red Hat, Ubuntu, and CentOS. Understanding of system administration tasks including installation, configuration, and maintenance of Linux servers;
• Proficiency in shell scripting (e.g., Bash) and automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet, Chef);
• Knowledge of networking concepts and protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, routing). Understanding of network services and configurations on Linux systems;
• Familiarity with web server administration (e.g., Apache, Nginx) and database management (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL);
• Knowledge of Linux security practices, including firewall configurations (e.g., iptables, firewall), user permissions, and access controls. Awareness of common security threats and mitigation strategies for Linux environments;
• Understanding of backup and disaster recovery solutions and methodologies for Linux systems;
• Familiarity with cloud services and infrastructure, such as AWS or Azure, is beneficial;
• Knowledge of containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) and their deployment and management in Linux environments;
• Knowledge of IT Operations and Data Center Controls;
• Knowledge of Storage Area Networks (SAN);
• Advanced skills in diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues related to Linux systems, hardware, and network connectivity;
• Skills in monitoring system performance, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing optimizations to ensure system efficiency and reliability;
• Skills in managing IT projects, including planning, execution, and coordination with other IT team members and stakeholders;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences;
• Strong problem-solving skills to address and resolve technical challenges efficiently and effectively;
• Ability to create and maintain detailed documentation for system configurations, processes, and troubleshooting procedures;
• Ability to provide high-quality technical support and customer service to end-users and IT staff;
• Ability to work effectively with cross‑functional teams, vendors, and stakeholders to achieve IT objectives and resolve issues;
• Ability to analyze complex systems and data to identify issues, make informed decisions, and implement effective solutions;
• Ability to adapt to changing technologies and priorities, staying current with industry trends and best practices;
• Ability to pay keen attention to detail to ensure accuracy in system configurations, documentation, and adherence to policies and standards;
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure, balancing technical requirements with organizational needs;
• Ability to mentor and guide junior IT staff, providing leadership, support, and training in technical and project‑related matters;
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines;
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form using a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school system staff, vendors, contractors, external agencies, and the community.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field; AND
• Five years of experience as a Systems Administrator or similar role, with a focus on Linux-based systems.

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

None

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in an educational environment or public sector, with a proven ability to manage large‑scale IT infrastructures;
• Experience with cloud services (e.g., Microsoft Azure), familiarity with backup and disaster recovery solutions, and knowledge of ITIL practices;
• Certification in RedHat Linux and/or IBM AIX (Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC‑2 or LPIC‑3), Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), or similar advanced Linux certifications).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Installs, Configures, and Maintains Linux Servers: Oversees the setup, configuration, and ongoing maintenance of Linux servers to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Manages user accounts, permissions, and group memberships on Linux systems, ensuring proper access controls and security.
• Monitors and Optimizes System Performance: Uses monitoring tools to track server performance metrics, such as CPU, memory, and disk usage, and address any issues that arise. Performs tuning and optimization tasks to enhance system performance and ensure efficient operation of Linux servers.
• Security and Compliance: Applies security updates, patches, and configurations to protect Linux systems from vulnerabilities and threats. Regularly performs security audits and vulnerability assessments to ensure compliance with organizational security policies and standards.
• Manages Backup Solutions: Implements and manages backup solutions to ensure data integrity and availability. Schedules regular backups and test recovery procedures to verify data restoration capabilities. Develops and maintains disaster recovery plans and procedures to ensure quick recovery in the event of a system failure or other disruptions.
• Resolves Technical Issues: Provides advanced technical support for complex issues related to Linux systems, including hardware, software, and network problems. Maintains detailed records of issues and resolutions to aid in future troubleshooting and to improve overall system reliability.
• Automation and Scripting: Creates and maintains shell scripts and automation tools to streamline administrative tasks and improve system efficiency. Utilizes automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet) to automate repetitive tasks and manage configurations across multiple systems.
• Project Management: Handles and participates in IT projects involving Linux systems, including upgrades, migrations, and new implementations. Works with other IT team members, departments, and external vendors to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Documentation and Reporting: Develops and maintains comprehensive documentation for system configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting guides. Generates reports on system performance, security status, and project progress for review by IT leadership.
• Training and Mentoring: Develops and delivers training materials to enhance the technical skills of junior IT staff and end-users on Linux systems and best practices. Offers guidance and support to less experienced team members, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Collaboration and Communication: Collaborates with other IT teams, departments, and external partners to address system issues, implement solutions, and achieve IT goals. Provides clear and concise communication regarding system changes, project updates, and technical information to various stakeholders.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to use a variety of office equipment such as computers, scanners, and copiers. Must be able to communicate effectively. At times requires the ability to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects up to ten pounds. The work occasionally requires driving automotive equipment. Due to the amount of time spent standing and/or walking, physical requirements are consistent with those for sedentary work.