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Purdue University

Linux Systems Administrator

🇺🇸 West Lafayette, IN

🕑 Full-Time

💰 $61K - $65K

💻 Information Technology

🗓️ September 11th, 2025

Docker Kubernetes

Edtech.com's Summary

Purdue University is hiring a Linux Systems Administrator to manage and secure its Linux desktop and server environments. The role involves installing and configuring systems, applying security measures, monitoring performance, troubleshooting issues, and supporting IT team operations to ensure system reliability for the campus.

Highlights
  • Install, configure, and upgrade Linux operating systems and hardware components.
  • Implement security safeguards including file permissions, firewalls, encryption, and patch management.
  • Monitor system resources and troubleshoot hardware/software issues promptly.
  • Manage system backups and support disaster recovery plans.
  • Develop and maintain documentation such as SOPs and runbooks.
  • Provide customer support, escalate service issues, and manage small infrastructure projects.
  • Collaborate with IT team members and share technical knowledge.
  • Required skills: Experience with Ubuntu and Oracle Linux, shell scripting, and general troubleshooting.
  • Preferred experience with Puppet, Nutanix, Kubernetes, and container technologies (Docker/Apptainer/Podman).
  • Qualifications: BA/BS in CS, IT or related field, with at least 3 years of enterprise Linux system administration experience.
  • Anticipated salary range: $61,120 to $64,940 annually, based on education and experience.
  • Background check required; no employment authorization sponsorship provided by Purdue University.

Linux Systems Administrator Full Description

Linux Systems Administrator -Purdue University

Join Purdue University as a Linux Systems Administrator and support the institution’s research and operations through expert management of its Linux desktop and server environments. This vital role ensures the integrity, performance, and security of hardware, network, and software systems across the Purdue campus.
 
Key Responsibilities:
System Installation & Configuration
  • Install and configure Linux operating systems across desktops and servers
  • Deploy software applications and perform system upgrades as needed
  • Configure hardware components and optimize system settings for reliability and performance
 
Security & System Integrity
  • Apply proper security safeguards including file permissions, firewalls, and encryption
  • Monitor for and respond to security threats and vulnerabilities
  • Implement updates, patches, and maintain compliance with university policies
 
Performance Monitoring & Maintenance
  • Monitor system resource usage (CPU, memory, disk, and network)
  • Troubleshoot and resolve hardware and software issues promptly
  • Manage system backups and support disaster recovery plans
 
Documentation & Procedures
  • Help develop and maintain operating procedures and documentation supporting infrastructure systems
  • Contribute to runbooks, SOPs, and change logs for transparency and continuity
 
Customer Support & Knowledge Sharing
  • Consult customers and escalate service issues as appropriate
  • Provide guidance on best practices, policies, and procedures
  • Manage small infrastructure projects and routinely communicate with stakeholders
 
Team Contributions
  • Support the IT team through collaboration and proactive problem-solving
  • Share technical knowledge with colleagues and customers to foster continuous improvement
 
Why Purdue?
Experience unrivaled pride, unlimited potential, and a trusted IT community at Purdue University. As a member of our team, you’ll play a key part in supporting world-class research and academic excellence, fostering innovation, and ensuring system reliability for a globally respected institution.
 
The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $61,120 to $64,940 commensurate with the candidate’s education and experience. The final salary offer will be determined based on a variety of factors, including equity, available budget, educational background, and relevant experience.
 
This position will work on the West Lafayette campus in Indiana.
 
About Us
When you join Purdue University, you join a community that keeps moving forward. For more than 150 years, we’ve been known for not only our groundbreaking work in STEM research, but also for our collective imagination, ingenuity and innovation. 
 
What We're Looking For
Education and Experience Required:
  • BA/BS in CS, IT, or another related field
  • At least three (3) years of experience as a system administrator of enterprise level Linux systems
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted
 
Preferred:
  • Puppet, Nutanix, Kubernetes, Docker/Apptainer/Podman experience
 
Skills Needed:
  • Familiar with Ubuntu and Oracle Linux distros, especially their respective package managers
  • Shell Scripting
  • General Troubleshooting
  • Good written communication skills, good documentation skills
 
Additional Information:
  • Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility:  Defined Contribution Waiting Period   
  • Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days
 
Career Stream
Professional 2
  • Pay Band S065
  • Job Code #20002140
 
The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $61,120 to $64,940 commensurate with the candidate’s education and experience. The final salary offer will be determined based on a variety of factors, including equity, available budget, educational background, and relevant experience.
 
Who We Are
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
 
Equal Opportunity Employer
Purdue University is an EOE employer.