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What is a senior linux systems administrator and how to become one
Senior Linux administrators are back-end IT specialists who install, configure, and maintain Linux operating systems in various organizations.
As a senior Linux administrator, you have to handle server operations and troubleshooting tasks that support business-critical activities and growth. You'll also need to customize user control and track device reliability and protection through daily usage and implementation.
This role demands a thorough knowledge of Linux systems and servers and high-risk evaluation and customer service standards. As Linux is an open-source operating system, administrators often collaborate regularly and work with other developers to build and introduce changes to the system.
While some organizations may hire Linux administrators with an associate's degree in a related field such as information technology, the vast majority of Linux administrators possess a bachelor's degree in a technical field such as computer science. However, to become a senior Linux administrator, you must have at least five to ten years of experience working as a Linux administrator alongside possessing outstanding supervision and communication skills.
Avg. Salary $106,223
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 5%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.31%
Asian 13.91%
Black or African American 7.98%
Hispanic or Latino 11.70%
Unknown 5.01%
White 61.09%
Genderfemale 7.98%
male 92.02%
Age - 42American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 42Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is good
6.4 - fair
Key steps to become a senior linux systems administrator
Explore senior linux systems administrator education requirements
Start to develop specific senior linux systems administrator skills
Skills Percentages Python 7.25% Windows 5.95% Cloud 4.72% Bash 4.59% OS 4.40% Complete relevant senior linux systems administrator training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New senior linux systems administrators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a senior linux systems administrator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real senior linux systems administrator resumes.Research senior linux systems administrator duties and responsibilities
- Manage TCP/IP packets and DHCP servers.
- Administer Jenkins for managing weekly build, test and deploy cycle.
- Used AWS S3 and EC2 for managing storage, launching virtual servers, configuration of security & networking.
- Manage NFS and NAS mounting that include adding new mounts, resolving mounting issues on Solaris and RedHat Linux platforms.
Prepare your senior linux systems administrator resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your senior linux systems administrator resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a senior linux systems administrator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable senior linux systems administrator resume templates
Build a professional senior linux systems administrator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your senior linux systems administrator resume.
Apply for senior linux systems administrator jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a senior linux systems administrator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
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Average senior linux systems administrator salary
The average senior linux systems administrator salary in the United States is $106,223 per year or $51 per hour. Senior linux systems administrator salaries range between $82,000 and $137,000 per year.
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Senior linux systems administrator reviews
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I love every thing in linux
Updated January 8, 2025
