Junior Linux Systems Administrator

Company Overview VES, LLC is seeking a motivated and proactive Junior Linux Systems Administrator to support on-site operations and infrastructure management. This role is ideal for an early-career professional who takes initiative, is eager to learn, and thrives in a dynamic, hands-on environment. The position is onsite at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, with hybrid flexibility. About VES, LLC We are a small business headquartered in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. Founded in 2014, we have grown to approximately 80 employees and specialize in custom government off-the-shelf (GOTS) infrastructure solutions, mission command system integration, and prototyping emerging technologies for the Army tactical architecture. We are an engineering-centric company focused on solving the DoD's hardest software systems integration challenges. Unlike many contractor firms, we aim to retain talent for the long haul, offering competitive pay, generous benefits, and a friendly work culture. Position Summary The Junior Linux Systems Administrator will manage and maintain Ubuntu Linux-based servers and end-user systems (laptops/desktops) across operational and lab environments. Responsibilities include providing Tier-1 help-desk support, troubleshooting hardware/software/connectivity issues, and maintaining containerized or virtualized environments (Docker and/or VMware vSphere). The role also involves hands-on physical infrastructure work—racking, cabling, hardware installation—and operating in a lab setting. This entry-to-early-career position (0-3 years experience) offers significant growth opportunities within a mission-focused technical team. Key Responsibilities Administer and maintain Ubuntu Linux systems, including configuration, patching, and troubleshooting Support day-to-day operation and maintenance of physical, containerized, and virtualized server environments Track equipment and assets, managing intake, inventory, and lifecycle across operations and labs Provide Tier-1 help-desk support for hardware, software, and connectivity issues Support Docker/VMware vSphere environments, including basic provisioning and upkeep Perform infrastructure tasks: racking, cabling, hardware installation, and lab maintenance Assist with basic network troubleshooting (switches, firewalls, cabling) Monitor systems and resolve issues through a ticketing system, prioritizing proactively Collaborate on system integration, testing, and operational activities Maintain accurate documentation, configurations, and standard operating procedures Support on-premises and cloud-based tools as needed Continuously develop technical skills and contribute to broader system lifecycle activities Required Qualifications Local to the Aberdeen, MD area Must work on-site 4-5 days per week U.S. citizenship required; ability to obtain/maintain security clearance 0-3 years of professional or internship experience Experience administering Linux (Ubuntu or similar), including configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting Strong troubleshooting skills across systems, hardware, and basic connectivity Solid networking fundamentals (IP, subnetting, routing) Experience scripting/automation with Python Experience with Docker or VMware vSphere, provisioning and maintenance Demonstrated initiative, independent work, and ticket-system workload management Willingness to learn across the full lifecycle of systems, including containers, virtualization, and infrastructure Commitment to security-first principles and best practices throughout design, deployment, and operations Physical capability to lift up to 60 pounds (with assistance) Preferred Qualifications Exposure to both Docker and VMware vSphere Familiarity with system/application lifecycle (build, deployment, maintenance) Experience with cloud platforms and/or on-premises enterprise tools Experience with configuration management (Puppet, Ansible, or similar) Prior support for DoD or regulated environments Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or related field; relevant certifications (Linux+, RHCSA, Security+, VMware) Clearance Requirements U.S. citizenship required Ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance Benefits 401(k) match Highly competitive salary Up to 15 paid vacation days per year 11 paid holidays Flexible work/life balance culture Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 per year VES is an equal-opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. J-18808-Ljbffr