Begin your search for great Linux jobs with the help of Leftronic.
Open Source is the Future
Should you start learning Linux or not?
Oh, yes!
Open source is the way of the future!
What many companies are now looking for is to cut down the time necessary for a product to make its way on the market. The solution – Linux experts!
Back in 2016, 34% of managers were offering Linux system administrator jobs. A year later, that figure went up to 47%. Today, 80% of managers are looking for employees with Linux knowledge.
In a Nutshell
We want to help any future Linux administrator…
…find a suitable job.
Why are Linux jobs are in demand?
Some of the highest-paid professionals on the market are the ones with open-source skills. Based on the latest findings, 80% of hiring managers are looking for IT experts with Linux skills. The same report also states that around 55% of IT companies are willing to train their current employers in Linux.
Let’s explore the rising popularity of Linux.
We are also aiming to help anyone who wants to become a to find a suitable job.
Linux is a group of open-source, Unix-like operating systems. They are based on the Linux operating system kernel, which is an OS released back in 1991. Linux is usually packaged in a Linux distribution. Those include supporting system software and software libraries, mostly provided by the GNU Project.
Popular Linux distributions include Fedora, Ubuntu, and Debian. On the other hand, commercial distributions include Red Hat Enterprise Linux and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server.
Linux was originally developed for personal computers. However, since its creation, it has been ported to more platforms than any other OS in the world. Being free software, Linux is the leading operating system on servers and other big iron systems. It is also the only OS used on TOP500 supercomputers. This accounts for many Linux admin jobs now available.
Additionally, it is used on 2.3% of desktop computers. Chromebooks also run on a Linux kernel-based Chrome OS. Finally, Linux is probably the most recognizable example of free and open-source software collaboration.
The numbers do not lie!
Having a Linux certificate or basic Linux knowledge is enough to get you a good job!
But what type of job exactly?
Linux Careers
If you are contemplating a career involving Linux, there are many opportunities. In fact, there are other fields where Linux is highly valued. For instance, certain PHP jobs also require knowledge of Linux. A lot of positions out there demand the knowledge of Linux as a prerequisite.
But let’s look at some of the career options available for you:
Application and Web Programmer: Most of the web content related publishing is done via Linux, Apache, PHP, or MySQL. Programmers who are familiar with multiple languages are also able to design different applications and databases.
Technical jobs: In this case, a professional is responsible for maintaining workstations and desktops. It requires understanding installation, partitioning, troubleshooting networks, providing services, basic scripting, and operating system related problems.
System Administrator: A Linux administrator is responsible for managing important services like HTTP, FTP, DNS, cron jobs, creating backups, etc. The job also involves looking after security in the organization. Also, the server-oriented distribution might include Debian, Red Hat Enterprise, Ubuntu, or CentOS.
Support: Offering support to everyone who is working in Linux globally is also a favorable position. Due to the enormous growth of Linux in corporate areas and enterprises, there is a lot of support needed to keep the systems alive.
However, since admin work is the most sought after, we are mainly going to concentrate on that position.
Linux System Administrator Job Description
Most clients and companies prefer using Linux for hosting and other web application purposes. Its usage has grown to such an extent that it is being used for mobile phones, the New York Stock Exchange and even supercomputers! So…
Every company with a solid IT infrastructure needs system administration.
Enter Linux administrators!
However, each organization may have different requirements. It will most likely depend on the type of system one needs to support. Some of the general duties will include building servers, backups, network security, checking logs, writing scripts, resetting passwords, etc.
Today, looking for Linux jobs near me is pretty easy. The rise in usage has also brought a rise in the necessity of experienced Linux administrators. Additionally, open-source is the future so there’s an obvious need for more people with such knowledge. But is knowledge enough?
Can one get by with only knowledge of Linux or are some specific requirements needed?
Let’s see:
Job Requirements
In order to get hired as an administrator by a big company, there are certain requirements that you have to fulfill. There is the experience factor followed by qualifications. A certificate is also good to have. But the most important asset for all Linux administrator jobs are still going to be the skills you bring to the table.
Education
When it comes to education, employers will look for their candidates having at least a Bachelor’s degree. A Master’s degree is still good but not a priority.
One should have a degree in either computer science, information science, information technology, telecommunications or any other related field.
Experience
Having lots of experience with Linux is going to raise your chances of being hired. Any job requires previous experience and the employers will state the number of years they wish their candidates to have. However, entry level Linux jobs come with 0 to 1 year of experience.
Certification
Having a certificate does not have to be the determining factor when applying for a Linux-based job.
But it can certainly help.
This is particularly useful if the candidate lacks working experience. Offering a certificate that backs up your knowledge will give you a certain edge.
Some of the certificates to look for include LPIC, RHCE or RHCT.
Skills and Knowledge
Probably the most important requirement that you will need to display are your knowledge and skills regarding Linux. In-depth Linux knowledge is something that all employers in the field demand. The necessary skill levels might differ based on the exact job you are applying for. Different companies will have different requirements for the Linux jobs they offer. Some of the standard ones include:
Knowledge of Linux: RedHat, Debian, CentOS, etc.
Being familiar with VMWare SAN management and concepts.
Experience in using MySQL and MariaDB.
Being proficient in Python scripting or Shell and Perl.
Understanding protocols like DNS, LDAP, HTTP, SMTP, and SNMP.
Exceptional problem-solving skills. Communication skills.
Possessing most of these skills will make you a perfect candidate for any Linux-based job.
Now let’s discuss some of the duties you will be using your skills for.
What are the duties of a Linux Administrator?
Linux administrators will have all kinds of duties and it will mainly depend on the types of systems they are supporting. However, there are some general things that you should know how to do.
Building Servers
Companies usually order their servers, but they still need to be configured to match the specific requirements of the company. It is the duty of an administrator to configure them and set them up by installing drivers.
Back Up
Making regular backups is a very important part of security and safety for the company’s data. Admins need to create new stored procedures and list backups.
Network Security
Linux system administrator roles and responsibilities also include security. They are usually the first line of defense from any unwanted intruders that might affect the system.
Write Scripts
Administrators mainly need to write scripts in Python or PERL. But they also need to be familiar with dozens of other programming languages. In fact, they mostly need to use BASH scripts at times. Besides these general duties, there are some more specific ones.
They include:
Maintaining all internet requests in regards to DNS, MySQL, PHP, Apache, and RADIUS.
Communicating with staff vendors and customers.
Detecting and solving service problems, from disaster recovery to login problems.
Working with the Data Network Engineer to analyze hardware requirements.
Installing the necessary procedures and security tools.
Finally, it is under the senior Linux system administrator job description to train and support other server administrators in the company accordingly. This accounts for further development of junior administrators since they need initial guidance from somebody.
Thus, if you combine all the previously mentioned elements (the knowledge, skills, your duties, etc.) you get a pretty clear picture of what you will be doing and what you are applying for.
How Much do Linux Administrators Make?
Knowing Linux is not only going to help you land a good position in a firm. It will also allow you to find a lucrative job. Based on the recent job postings and the requirements of firms, the average salary for admins in the US is around $90,000 a year.
The lower average is around $60,000 and it can go as high as $150,000!
The figures might not make your head spin but it’s a good enough salary for a stress-free lifestyle.
But the salary is still going to differ greatly depending on various factors. You have to take into account the geographical location, your experience and the level of expertise, and the type of company you are applying for. A Linux system administrator salary is going to differ based on the scale of the firm and the amount of work you need to complete.
So let’s see some examples to help you get a better grasp of the situation:
The average salary on PayScale is listed at $71,894 a year, with the lowest averaging around $50,000 and the highest salaries going all the way up to $102,000.
Glassdoor lists a median salary of $64,892. The lowest listed salaries are around $43,000 while the highest ones range all the way to $93,000.
A Linux admin will earn an average salary of $97,800 a year according to ZipRecruiter. The lowest Linux jobs salary is around $43,000 while the highest ranges to $158,500 a year.
Linux administrators in Germany make an average monthly salary of €10,900. The lowest is €4,490 while the highest goes to €16,800.
The salary range for Linux-based jobs in Canada is between $83,761 and $92,892 a year.
Linux-related jobs listed on Indeed list different salaries.
Systems Administrator: $81,182 p/y
Administrator: $64,673 p/y
Unix Administrator: $92,350 p/y
Senior Systems Administrator: $97,207 p/y
There you have it!
You will agree that the figures displayed here say that different Linux Jobs will help you earn a pretty penny.
But are there enough of them to go around for everyone?
Are Jobs Related to Linux in Demand?
Is the job you want in demand? Is the competition high? What are my chances of actually being hired?
These are perfectly legitimate questions that will help you take a step forward.
Luckily, when it comes to Linux-related jobs, the demand is getting higher and higher. Employers are even offering remote Linux jobs! According to the US Bureau of Labor, an estimated 6% jump is expected in the 10-year period between 2016 and 2026 for the demand of administrators.
Stats also say that people with knowledge of cloud computing, programming on Linux, and other modern technologies will have a greater chance of getting hired. Additionally, almost all of the top web companies (Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, etc.) in the world use Linux based infrastructure. Also, almost everything that we do today is done via an app. Since Linux is required for creating those applications it further supports the need for people familiar with it.
All in all, there is a plethora of opportunities when it comes to Linux based jobs. Just type Linux administrator jobs near me in your search and you will see what we are talking about.
The final advice we are able to give you is how to start your career.
Linux Job Outlook
If you really have your heart set on learning Linux and starting your career with it, we have a few more pieces of advice for you. Follow the next few steps so you are prepared.
Install Linux – You need to know what you are doing and theoretical knowledge is simply not going to cut it.
Take LFS101x – Taking this course will help you establish the basic and most needed knowledge about Linux. But even entry-level Linux system administrator jobs require more than this.
Take LFS201x – After establishing the basics, you will need to expand your knowledge with the advanced stuff. This course allows you to learn advanced techniques so you can fulfill some more complicated tasks.
Practice – Practice makes perfect! It is a simple as that. The more you practice, the better you are going to become at it. Get Certified – A certification will show the recruiter what the threshold of your knowledge is.
Get Involved – Join a local Linus Users Group or start working as a freelancer so you get the necessary experience.
The hardest part is the beginning. But it doesn’t have to be. You just need the courage to make the inaugural step forward and start your search for Linux jobs near me.
The Bottom Line
Linux is an important programming language that might define the future. It has a lot to offer and its usage rate is getting higher.
All of the developing contemporary technologies use Linux or open-source. Additionally, they are deemed as some of the most important technologies of modern times. The future greatly depends on their advancement and implementation in our world.
Therefore, knowing Linux will ensure a favorable position in the future. Is Linux hard to learn?
It depends on the level of your assertiveness and on your ability to thrive in the modern world. You will most likely want to leave a footprint behind. Show your accomplishments and make a mark for yourself.
Investing in future technologies is the way to do it.
Earning a great salary with Linux skills is highly possible. However, these things greatly depend on a lot of factors. Not all positions and firms are able to offer the same salary as others. In most cases, it depends on the location. The highest salaries are expectedly available in the US where you also have the highest concentration of jobs available.
Basically speaking, a figure of $90,000 per year is achievablе.
What are the daily activities of Linux administrator?
When it comes to Linux-related jobs, the daily activities can greatly differ based on the exact position and firm. Thus Linux administrators may have some similar duties that fall under the Linux server manager job description. On the other hand, they also don’t have to.
They usually include:
Setting up repositories and installing packages and updates.
Creating, modifying and deleting user and groups.
Managing file system permissions for user and groups.
Keeping a record of changes made.
Solving problems as quickly as possible as they occur.
How do I become a Linux administrator?
In order to become a Linux admin one has to go through a few steps. Firstly, install Linux and acquire basic knowledge. Secondly, acquire advanced knowledge through courses. Then, practice as much as possible to get the necessary experience. Getting a certificate also helps as you are able to show your worth to potential employees. Finally, get yourself involved and earn your grades either by working freelance or by applying for a full-time job at a firm.
What is the role of a Linux administrator?
Answering the question “What does a Linux engineer do?” is pretty difficult. Mainly because it comes with a lot of different duties. It usually revolves around the specific position and the requirements of the firm.
We can mention some of the more usual ones to help you get a better grasp of it:
Tune performance and ensure high availability of the infrastructure
Design and develop infrastructure monitoring.
Develop and maintain configuration management solutions.
Create tools that can help teams with their work.
Develop test automation frameworks.
Are Linux jobs in demand?
Open-source has become one of the fastest developing technologies. Some are viewing it as the technology which is shaping the world now and which will lead us into the future.
Having Linux skills today is certainly something that employees are looking for. Research says that an even greater demand for administrators with Linux skills is going to be needed in the future. Even greater than the demand we have today.
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