Linux Systems Administrator - Dream Chaser Mission Systems (Systems Engineer III)

Job Title: Linux Systems Administrator – Dream Chaser Mission Systems (Systems Engineer III)

Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting direct hire Linux Systems Administrator – Dream Chaser Mission Systems (Systems Engineer III) with our client located in Louisville, CO.

Job Responsibilities:

• Linux Systems Administration:

• Administer, configure, and maintain Linux-based servers and workstations (RHEL/CentOS)

• Patch, harden (STIG compliance), tune performance, and troubleshoot Linux systems

• Manage virtualized Linux environments (VMware) and containerized applications (Docker)

• Write and maintain Bash/Python scripts for automation, monitoring, and administration

• Mission & Network Support:

• Provide end-to-end support of mission-critical IT systems, infrastructure, and networks

• Configure and support networking components (Cisco switches, Palo Alto firewalls)

• Administer command and telemetry software (InControl & Amergint | ARKA)

• Support real-time missions and pre-mission simulations

• Provide Flight & Test Operations end-user support

• Documentation & Process:

• Develop documentation for system design, operations, and training

• Refine operational concepts and processes

• Perform general systems engineering and integration tasks

• Collaborate closely with NASA during all phases of mission preparation and planning

Job Qualifications:

• BS in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or related discipline + typically 5 or more years of relevant experience (relevant experience may count toward degree; relevant advanced degree may count toward experience)
• Experience with VMware, Docker, Python, RF, Cisco switches, and Palo Alto firewalls
• Experience with command and telemetry software (InControl & Amergint | ARKA)
• Proficient with Linux and Windows operating systems (Linux depth required)
• Experience in IT system & network administration, data management, software configuration, and real-time mission support
• Practical knowledge of engineering principles and practices
• Experience working in multi-disciplinary design and development teams
• Knowledge of requirements management, functional requirements parsing/derivation/allocation, systems design/integration, technical risk identification and management, and V&V principles

Nice To Have:

• Linux certification (RHCSA, RHCE, LFCS, or equivalent)
• Python Scripting experience
• Security hardening experience (DISA STIGs, CIS Benchmarks)
• Configuration management/automation tools (Ansible, Puppet, or similar)
• Real-time operations, spacecraft ground systems, or control center operations experience
• Experience managing enterprise IT applications, systems, and networking at scale
• Knowledge of ground-to-space communication systems and control center development
• Proficiency in Jira and Confluence
• INCOSE certification or equivalent experience
• Background in Aerospace and Defense industry
• Experience with baseline definition/maturation in complex development settings, including trade studies
• Exposure to establishing and tracking Technical Performance Measurements (TPMs)

Job Details:

• Job Type: Direct Hire
• Salary Rate Range: $119,064-$163,713
• Location: Louisville, CO
• Required US Citizenship: May be required to obtain and maintain a security clearance at the appropriate level.

About Protingent: Protingent is an Award-Winning provider of top-tier Engineering and IT talent, trusted by companies at the forefront of innovation — from Software and Aerospace to AI, Clean Tech, Medical Devices, and Connected Technologies. We’re passionate about making a positive impact by connecting exceptional talent with meaningful opportunities and helping our clients build the future.