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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.

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

Career pathmaker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

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.