Junior Linux Systems Administrator

VES LLC is a small business headquartered out of Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, focused on solving the Department of Defense's software systems integration challenges. They are seeking a motivated Junior Linux Systems Administrator to support the management and maintenance of Ubuntu Linux-based servers and end-user systems, ensuring reliability and performance across operational and lab environments. Responsibilities - Administer and maintain Ubuntu Linux systems, including system configuration, patching, and troubleshooting - Support day-to-day operation and maintenance of physical, containerized, and virtualized server environments - Manage and track equipment and assets across operational and lab environments, including intake, inventory, and lifecycle management - Provide Tier 1 help desk support, troubleshooting hardware, software, and connectivity issues - Support and maintain containerized or virtualized environments (Docker and/or VMware vSphere), including basic provisioning and upkeep - Perform hands-on infrastructure tasks, including racking equipment, running cables, hardware installation, and lab environment maintenance - Assist with basic troubleshooting of network infrastructure (e.g., switches, firewalls, cabling, and connectivity issues) - Monitor systems and proactively identify, prioritize, and resolve issues through a ticketing system - Collaborate with team members and stakeholders to support system integration, testing, and operational activities - Maintain accurate system documentation, configurations, and standard operating procedures - Support on-premises and cloud-based tools and environments as needed - Continuously develop technical skills and contribute to broader system lifecycle activities, including build, deployment, and maintenance Skills - Must be local to the Aberdeen, MD area - Ability to work on-site 4–5 days per week - U.S. Citizenship required - Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance - 0–3 years of relevant professional or internship experience - Hands-on experience administering Linux systems (Ubuntu or similar distributions), including system configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting - Strong troubleshooting skills across systems, hardware, and basic connectivity issues - Solid understanding of foundational networking concepts (e.g., IP addressing, subnetting, routing, basic network troubleshooting) - Experience with scripting or automation using Python - Experience with either containerization (Docker) or virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware vSphere), with exposure to system provisioning and maintenance - Demonstrated initiative and ability to work independently, manage workload through a ticketing system, and proactively identify and complete tasks - Willingness to learn and expand across the full lifecycle of systems, including containers, virtualization, and infrastructure - Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to security-first principles, including applying security best practices throughout system design, deployment, and ongoing operations - Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting equipment up to 60 pounds (with assistance as needed) - Exposure to both containerization (Docker) and virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware vSphere) - Familiarity with the lifecycle of systems or applications, including build, deployment, and maintenance - Experience with cloud platforms and/or on-premises enterprise tools - Experience with infrastructure automation and configuration management tools (e.g., Puppet, Ansible, or similar) - Previous experience supporting DoD or other regulated environments - Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; relevant technical certifications (e.g., Linux+, RHCSA, Security+, VMware); or equivalent hands-on experience Benefits - 401(k) match - Highly Competitive Salary - Up to 15 Paid Vacation days / year - 11 Paid Holidays - Flexible work/life balance culture Company Overview - Headquartered in Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, VES LLC is a small business that was established in 2014. It was founded in 2014, and is headquartered in Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, USA, with a workforce of 51-200 employees. Its website is https://www.ves.solutions.