Linux Administrator Job Description: A Complete Guide

Are you looking to elevate your IT career by mastering the world of Linux Administration? With the growing demand for Linux-based systems in the industry, becoming a proficient Linux Administrator can open numerous opportunities. However, breaking into this field requires a clear understanding of the Linux Administrator Job Description and its demands. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make all the difference in your career trajectory. 

Read this blog to explore the Linux Administrator Job Description, which can help you easily land on your dream job. In this, we will discuss the key responsibilities, necessary skills, and tips to excel in this role. Let’s dive in! 

Table of Contents

1) What is Linux Administrator? 

2) Linux Administrator Responsibilities 

3) Qualifications and requirements for Linux Administrator 

4) Linux Administrator skills 

5) Linux Administrator Job Description Template 

6) Conclusion 

What is Linux Administrator? 

A Linux Administrator is a technical professional armed with specialising technical knowledge in maintaining and developing technology used on Linux infrastructure. They provide technical support, maintain system security, conduct routine security audits, and perform administrative scripting using Perl, Python, and Shell.  

They are typically found in medium to large organisations and serve as the point of contact between the organisation and end users, coordinating internal teams to drive projects and improvements.
 

Linux Administrator responsibilities 

The Linux Administrator is a technical professional specialising in the administration, maintenance, and development of Linux-based systems and infrastructure. The roles and responsibilities typically include: 

1) Hardware and software server systems installation and management 

2) Manage server performance and availability 

3) Back up the system and assist in the restoration 

4) Provide appropriate training to users 

5) Create and manage system tools for scripts and automation processes 

6) Coordinate with capacity planning 

7) Incorporate core software and resolve technical problems 

8) Design and implement business server backup services 

9) Review and monitor system and development activity requirements 

10) Develop infrastructure to meet business needs and troubleshoot systems 

11) Observe system performance and availability 

12) Assist in the setup and deployment of virtual machines 

13) Monitor patch releases and ensure systems are up to date based on NIST standards 

14) Provide support for applications and maintain customer service levels 

15) Deliver after-hours support and maintain up-to-date Linux knowledge 

16) Identify problems with tools, monitor and maintain servers, and manage backups 

17) Test new software, maintain patches, and conduct security audits 

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Qualifications and requirements for Linux Administrator 

The qualifications and requirements to be tapped in order to excel in this position are as follows: 

1) Previous working experience as a Linux Administrator 

2) Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems or similar relevant degree  

3) In-depth knowledge of Linux: RedHat, CentOS, Debian, etc. 

4) Hands-on experience with MySQL and/or MariaDB 

5) Familiarity with VMWare and SAN management and concepts 

6) Expert in Shell, Perl, and/or Python scripting 

7) Solid knowledge of protocols such as DNS, HTTP, LDAP, SMTP and SNMP 

8) Additional Linux certifications (RHCT, RHCE and LPIC) will be considered an advantage 

9) Strong problem-solving and communication skills 

Linux Administrator skills 

A Linux Administrator requires a wide range of technical skills, attuning them to functional soft skills in managing and maintaining Linux Systems. Key skills include: 

1) Familiarity with Linux-based Operating Systems and distros: Red Hat, Ubuntu, CentOS 

2) Practical knowledge of scripting languages (Bash, Perl, Python) 

3) An understanding of network protocols and services, including but not limited to TCP/IP, DNS, and DHCP 

4) Experience with configuration management tools (Ansible, Puppet, Chef) 

5) Knowledge of virtualisation technologies (VMware, KVM) 

6) Exceptional problem-solving and strong troubleshooting skills 

7) System monitoring and performance tuning 

8) Experience in backup and recovery 

9) Knowledge of security best practices and tools 

10) Great communication and collaboration skills 

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Linux Administrator Job Description Template 

Here are two sample Linux Job Description template tailored to different levels of experience and organisational needs:
 

Conclusion

The Linux Administrator position is crucial in ensuring the smooth run of an organisation's IT infrastructure. This role requires a mix of technical skills, troubleshooting capabilities, and strong communication skills to manage, maintain, and secure Linux Systems. Meeting the qualifications outlined in a typical Linux Administrator Job Description is essential. It guarantees that the Linux Administrator can ensure a better system's functioning and improved security, achieving a broader IT strategy. 

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