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The differences between linux systems administrators and linux systems engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a linux systems administrator and a linux systems engineer. Additionally, a linux systems engineer has an average salary of $109,078, which is higher than the $83,032 average annual salary of a linux systems administrator.
The top three skills for a linux systems administrator include python, windows and red hat. The most important skills for a linux systems engineer are python, bash, and cloud.
| Linux Systems Administrator | Linux Systems Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $83,032 | $109,078 |
| Hourly rate | $39.92 | $52.44 |
| Growth rate | 5% | 5% |
| Number of jobs | 109,091 | 95,790 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 67% |
| Average age | 43 | 43 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 2 |
A Linux systems administrator is primarily in charge of managing and overseeing Linux operating systems, ensuring efficiency and smooth workflow. Their responsibilities revolve around installing and conducting regular maintenance checks, troubleshooting, performing repairs, and monitoring systems performance to ensure optimal operations. They must also develop back-up and security systems as preventive measures should there be any issues or emergencies. Furthermore, as an administrator, it is essential to manage and encourage team members to reach goals, all while implementing the company's policies and regulations.
A Linux system engineer is responsible for creating computer applications and programs through the Linux operating system. Linux system engineers design technical model solutions that would improve the efficiency of operational processes and maximize the staff's productivity. They also handle the upgrade of network infrastructure, system maintenance, and installment of software updates. A Linux system engineer must have excellent knowledge of the Linux methods, as well as a strong command of programming languages and system codes to generate system tools according to business requirements and client specifications.
Linux systems administrators and linux systems engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Linux Systems Administrator | Linux Systems Engineer | |
| Average salary | $83,032 | $109,078 |
| Salary range | Between $64,000 And $107,000 | Between $80,000 And $147,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | New Hampshire |
| Best paying company | Apple | Meta |
| Best paying industry | Finance | Technology |
There are a few differences between a linux systems administrator and a linux systems engineer in terms of educational background:
| Linux Systems Administrator | Linux Systems Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 67% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between linux systems administrators' and linux systems engineers' demographics:
| Linux Systems Administrator | Linux Systems Engineer | |
| Average age | 43 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 90.3% Female, 9.7% | Male, 92.7% Female, 7.3% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 8.0% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 11.7% Asian, 14.0% White, 61.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% | Black or African American, 7.9% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 11.6% Asian, 13.7% White, 61.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% |
| LGBT Percentage | 9% | 9% |