Part Time Linux Desktop Engineering Consultant (3 months)

The Linux Desktop Engineer will lead the design, deployment, and support Scientific Systems’ Linux workstation environment, with a focus on Ubuntu 24 (U24). This is a project- based role and will lead the effort to build and maintain a standardized golden image for U24 systems and identify provisioning and automation tools to streamline deployment across the enterprise.  We are seeking a Linux Engineer to support the rollout of a time-bounded technology project, expected to conclude within 120 days. Hourly requirements will vary week by week from a few hours for technical support to up to 20 hours for technical integration and configuration related work.

In addition to image management and provisioning, the Linux Desktop Engineer will provide Tier 2 endpoint support for Linux users across the organization. They will serve as the escalation point for complex workstation issues, ensuring timely and effective resolution. Expected service levels include approximately four-hour response times for urgent issues and up to two business days for non-urgent support requests. This position requires strong technical expertise in Linux desktop environments, a proactive approach to endpoint management, and the ability to balance automation initiatives with responsive user support. 

Essential Functions

• Build, maintain, and optimize a golden image for Ubuntu 24 workstations.
• Select and implement provisioning and automation tools to streamline endpoint deployment.
• Develop and execute rollout timelines for enterprise-wide U24 workstation deployment
• Provide Tier 2 Linux desktop support, resolving escalated issues efficiently and effectively.
• Meet support service levels (e.g., ~4 hours for urgent issues, ~2 business days for non-urgent requests).
• Collaborate with IT teammates and end users to ensure a secure, stable, and user-friendly Linux computing environment.
• Maintain documentation of workstation images, provisioning processes, and support procedures.
• Stay current with Linux desktop best practices, tools, and security updates.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain an active US DOD Security Clearance.

Basic Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience administering and supporting Linux desktop environments in an enterprise or technical computing setting.
• Strong expertise with Ubuntu (preferably Ubuntu 24) and related system administration tools.
• Hands-on experience creating and maintaining golden images and automated deployment workflows.
• Prior experience with provisioning tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet, Chef, or similar) and scripting languages (e.g., Bash, Python).

• Experience integrating the following technologies on Linux desktops: Data Loss Prevention (DLP), Network Access Control (NAC), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and Privileged Access Management (PAM). Experience applying and maintaining Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) is also required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active US DOD Security Clearance

• Prior experience working in the Defense, Aerospace or Space Technologies Industry

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.