Linux Systems Administrator

• Participate in a rotation to provide 24x7x365 on-call support for the primary IT mission essential data processing, applications, and functions to support the continuity of operations of the NDBC information system.
• Support IT architecture improvements to ensure continuity of operations for primary mission essential functions and the flow of data.
• Support the annual NDBC IT Assessment and Authorization (A&A) audits through security patching and security-minded configuration updates; actively address changes needed as a result of Plan of Action & Milestones (POAM) requirements; help ensure NDBC maintains its Authority to Operate (ATO).
• Maintain all Linux-based servers and clients located on premises and in an AWS cloud environment.
• Follow system administration best practices. Patch and configure systems in compliance with NOAA security requirements.
• Upgrade operating systems in advance of end-of-support dates.
• Support software development efforts. Deploy software application updates for both COTS as well as internal applications.
• Plan and implement migration of local systems to a cloud environment, where possible, in a cost-effective manner. Ensure reliable system and data backups.
• Manage/maintain server certificates. Maintain Red Hat Enterprise Linux subscriptions.
• Perform ongoing performance tuning, hardware upgrades, and resource optimization as required.
• Communicate/brief upcoming maintenance efforts and/or anticipated impacts to stakeholders.
• Implement strategies to automate routine administration tasks.
• Maintain and monitor data center environmental equipment.

The ideal candidate will have experience with the following: AWS, Troubleshooting, Server Hardware (racking, hard drive configuration), Apache/Tomcat, Security/Patch/STIG, Automation/Scripting, Building systems from the ground up, Programming Languages (PHP, Java, Python), and Developer Interaction.

The Senior Linux System Administrator responsible for the servers that process data from a global network of buoys, managed by the National Data Buoy Center (NDBC). This position is located at the NDBC facility at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. While some telework is authorized, regular in-office presence is required, including the ability to come into the office in the event of an issue requiring hands-on resolution., * Education Requirements: Bachelors of Computer Science, Information Systems, or equivalent. Experience may be considered as an equivalent.

• US Citizenship or a valid Green Card is required for facility credentials/authorization at this work location.

• Must be local or prepared to relocate to the Stennis, MS area and willing to be onsite 5 days per week.

• Must be able to pass an extensive federal government e-QIP background check and obtain a Public Trust security clearance.

• 8+ years or more experience preferred in the installation/configuration, operation, and maintenance of IT system hardware and software and related IT infrastructure.

• Demonstrated advanced knowledge and experience supporting Red Hat Linux, Apache, Tomcat, drivers, applications, vulnerabilities, security requirements and postures, quarterly STIG updates.

• Knowledge of AWS solutions and migration of Linux systems is considered a plus.

• An understanding of programming languages, such as (Java, Python, PHP, and Perl).

• Experience in installing and maintaining system hardware, operating systems, software systems, network systems, security systems.

• Experience applying OS patches and upgrades on a regular basis, and upgrades of administrative tools and utilities; configuring, adding, and removing services as necessary.

• Experience implementing automation to streamline recurring system administration tasks is highly preferred; experience with scripting languages.

• Experience with AWS Lambda, containers, EC2 instances is desirable.

• Able to work autonomously and take initiative in identifying areas for improvements and proposing solutions.

• Able to communicate effectively with coworkers and stakeholders.

• Must be able to successfully complete a NOAA (Stennis Space Center)/NASA background investigation for site/system access.

• Must be able to obtain and maintain facility credentials/authorization.

Desired Skills

• Prior government experience.
• Previous/current CAC card holder.

ECS is a leading mid-sized provider of technology services to the United States Federal Government. We are focused on people, values and purpose. Every day, our 3200+ employees focus on providing their technical talent to support the Federal Agencies and Departments of the US Government to serve, protect and defend the American People.