Linux Systems Administrator

Job Type:

Overview of RAND

The RAND Corporation is a research organization that develops solutions to public policy challenges to help make communities throughout the world safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous. RAND's research and analysis address issues that impact people everywhere, including security, health, education, sustainability, growth, and development. Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, RAND has approximately 1,700 people from more than 45 countries working in offices in North America, Europe and Australia, with annual revenues of more than $260 million.

RAND is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and committed to the public interest.Our research is sponsored by government agencies, foundations, other nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. We rely on philanthropic support to reach beyond the scope of client-sponsored work to tackle questions that may be too big, too complex, or too new for our clients to address. RAND values objectivity and integrity in both its research processes and internal interactions. We emphasize a collegial environment that respects the contributions and dignity of all staff.

Position Description

This Systems Administrator position will work as an integral part of the IS Classified Operations Team providing technical expertise in the support of RAND's classified systems and services.This position will operate and maintain various IT technologies including Linux and Windows operating systems, VMWare, and network storage.

The range of duties and tasks for this Systems Administrator (Level IV) position entail:

• Senior level support of Linux systems, including the installation and maintenance of Red Hat Linux (RHEL 8), upgrading to more current versions when required

• Support secret collateral and TS/SCI classified workstations and servers

• Installation and maintenance of Red Hat Linux and Windows Server operating systems

• Assistance with software and hardware installations for networked and stand-alone systems

• Provide network and system performance analysis, monitoring and reporting

• Prepare for and participate in government assessments of classified systems

• Diagnosis and troubleshooting of network connectivity, hardware, and software problems. Act as an escalation resource for problem resolution, solving complex technical problems in the field of expertise

• Completion of a wide range of systems and network service requests; ensure the highest levels of customer satisfaction and network availability

• Implementation of multiple and simultaneous new technology related initiatives and solutions. To a lesser degree configure and maintain Active Directory settings including Group Policy Objects, DNS, DHCP, and Sites - Services (replication)

• Collaboration with other Information Services groups and RAND departments in the evaluations, customization, adaptation, implementation and security of infrastructure hardware and software systems, services and networks

• Adherence to ITIL best practices including Change Management, Problem Management and Service and Support standards

• Implementation of technical controls, regulations and processes required by organizational security practices and Department of Defense Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs)

• Preparation of network, servers, and workstations for announced and unannounced audits from regulators agencies; account for and report on thousands of auditable technical configurations and controls

• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Senior level skills in supporting Red Hat Linux environment required;

• Minimum of 5 years' experience with Linux and Windows environments that follow strict security and compliance requirements;

• Solid understanding of DNS, TCP/IP, HTTP, DHCP, server virtualization, and Active Directory;

• Knowledge of resources and practices in the security community and current on changing requirements a plus;

• Ability to adjust quickly, adapt to changing priorities and take initiative and own the task;

• Strong attention to detail with excellent written and verbal communications skills;

• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team with strong organization skills

• Moderate level skills in supporting Windows Servers, SAN & NAS storage, ESX.

Education Requirements

• BA/BS degree preferred with exceptional related work experience, certifications, and skills may be considered in-lieu of a four-year degree.Associates degree required.

• Achieve and maintain Security+ and Certifications in area of expertise.

Experience

Minimum of 5 years' Linux Administration experience in a professional and mixed environment

Security Clearance

U.S. Citizenship and active Secret Clearance (TS/SCI) with Polygraph is required. This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain security and technical certifications.

Location

This position is located in RAND's Santa Monica office and will require a presence of 5 days per week. Relocation can be considered.

Salary Range: $100,100 - $152,400

RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to, the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate's work experience, education/training, skills, expertise; and internal equity.The salary range includes base pay plus RAND's sabbatic pay (which provides additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken). In addition, RAND provides strong benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, paid time-off and more.

Equal Opportunity Employer