Classified Linux Systems Administrator

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory - Laurel, MD

Full-time - Mid Level

Laurel, MD

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

As a Classified Linux Systems Administrator at APL, you will play a crucial role in managing and maintaining classified information systems. Your primary responsibility will be to ensure that these systems align with APL policies, InfoSec guidance, industry standards, and NISPOM rules and regulations. You will be part of a collaborative team environment where proactive problem-solving is essential. Your work will involve researching, analyzing, and resolving issues across multiple classified systems, providing system administration for Linux-based systems, and assisting with system upgrades, deployments, and patch cycles. In this position, you will integrate and configure hardware and software related to Linux systems, ensuring that security measures are implemented effectively. This includes following STIGs, installing updates, and maintaining access controls. You will also standardize classified systems through the use of configuration management tools such as Ansible and automate administrative tasks using scripts and management tools. Your role will require you to ensure the maintenance and monitoring of servers and daemons while proactively managing system performance and reliability. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys staying busy and is looking for meaningful work in a supportive team environment. You will have the opportunity to contribute to the success of the Classified Systems Administration Operations Team by responding to user needs and evolving customer requirements, making a significant impact on the organization.

Responsibilities

• Research, analyze, and resolve issues across multiple classified systems to provide system administration for Linux-based systems.
• Assist with system upgrades, deployments, and patch cycles of Linux environments.
• Integrate and configure hardware and software related to Linux systems.
• Ensure security measures are implemented by following STIGs, installing updates, and maintaining access controls.
• Standardize classified systems through the use of configuration management tools (e.g. Ansible).
• Automate administrative tasks using scripts and/or management tools.
• Ensure the maintenance and monitoring of servers and daemons.
• Proactively manage system performance and reliability.

Requirements

• Bachelor's in Information Technology or a related field; 2 years of additional experience will be accepted in lieu of a degree.
• 4 years of experience relevant to the duties outlined above.
• Proficiency in using scripting for automation of tasks and deployments (Bash/Shell, Python).
• Experience installing and configuring software, web applications, and hardware.
• Experience integrating Linux services into a Windows-based environment, including authentication, resource sharing, and configuration management tools.
• Ability to identify project needs and develop strong technical and innovative solutions.
• Able to obtain within 6 months of hire and maintain a security certification in accordance with DoD 8570.01-M (e.g., Security+, CISSP, CASP).
• Hold an active Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.

Nice-to-haves

• A Master's Degree in Information Technology or related field and 8 years of relevant professional experience.
• Experience deploying containerization solutions with Docker or Podman.
• Previous experience working in a classified environment.
• Previous knowledge of Nessus or ACAS scanning processes.
• Experience with VMware, Splunk, Ivanti, and/or Symantec.
• Experience implementing controls based on the Security Technical Implementations Guide (STIG) and the Risk Management Framework (RMF).
• Linux OS technical certification(s) (Linux+, RHCSA, RHCE, etc).

Benefits

• Robust education assistance program
• Unparalleled retirement contributions
• Healthy work/life balance