Linux Systems Engineer - Laurel - Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)

Description

Do you enjoy solving complicated problems?   Are you passionate about Linux?   Do you like contributing to automation?   Do you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment?   If so, we 're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.  

Recognized by Computerworld as one of the Top Places to Work in IT for six years running, we're looking for a Linux Systems Engineer who is eager to learn, loves working hands-on with Linux, and is excited by open-source technologies. In this role, you'll directly support APL's exceptional research community.

Linux systems power APL's most mission-critical national security and research efforts. As a Linux Systems Engineer, you'll build, secure, and operate platforms that solve meaningful, real-world problems. From day one, you'll be trusted to take ownership, grow quickly, and help define how Linux is automated, secured, and scaled enterprise-wide.

  As a Linux Systems Engineer, you will...

• Build, configure, and support Linux systems that underpin secure research and operational programs across the Lab.
• Troubleshoot complex system and application issues, working with teammates, researchers, and vendors to engineer durable solutions.
• Help keep systems healthy through patching, monitoring, performance tuning, and thoughtful problem-solving.
• Contribute to the Linux Administration Team by building automation, improving documentation and sharing ideas that influence long-term architecture.
• Participate in shaping how Linux is secured, automated, and scaled at APL—your perspective and curiosity will be valued.

Qualifications

You'll meet our minimum requirements if you have...

• A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, a related field.
• 3+ years experience administering Linux systems (e.g., Red Hat, Ubuntu).
• Experience scripting or automating tasks using Bash, Python, or a similar language.
• Proactive, self-driven approach to preventing outages, optimizing performance, and maintaining secure, reliable systems.
• Strong troubleshooting skills with the persistence to drive issues to root cause.
• Interest in building secure, well-engineered systems, including curiosity about compliance and security frameworks such as DFARS, FIPS, and STIGs.
• Collaborative mindset with clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Automation or configuration management tools such as Ansible, Puppet, Chef, or BigFix.
• Container technologies like Docker, Podman, or Kubernetes.
• Monitoring and observability tools such as Prometheus, Grafana, or Splunk.
• Authentication and directory services including LDAP, Kerberos, or Red Hat IdM.
• Linux security hardening frameworks such as CIS Benchmarks or DISA STIGs.
• Experience using Git or other version control systems.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$195,000 Annually