IT Systems Administrator - Linux Specialist at X-Chem

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: IT Systems Administrator - Linux Specialist
Company: X-Chem
Location: Waltham, MA, US
Job Type: On-site
Category: Server Administration, IT Infrastructure
Date Posted: 2025-06-26

🚀 Role Summary

Primary Role: Linux Systems Administrator with a focus on IT infrastructure management and end-user support.
Key Responsibilities: Provide helpdesk support, maintain Linux servers, manage IT infrastructure, and ensure high availability and reliability of IT services.
Team Context: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide comprehensive IT support and drive IT capabilities to meet organizational goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in Linux administration and a proven track record in managing IT infrastructure and providing end-user support. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a dynamic, growing organization and be comfortable handling diverse tasks.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

IT Support: Provide general IT support for hardware, software, and network issues across the organization.
User Support: Assist end-users with system issues, ticketing systems, and basic troubleshooting.
Server Management: Manage the organization’s IT infrastructure, including servers, storage devices, and virtualization platforms.
Linux Administration: Install, configure, and maintain Linux servers, including distributions such as Ubuntu and Red Hat.
System Updates: Perform regular system updates, patches, and upgrades to maintain stability and security on assets and key infrastructure.
Troubleshooting: Troubleshoot server-related issues to minimize downtime and ensure optimal performance.
User Account Management: Manage user accounts, permissions, and access controls on Linux and Windows servers.
Performance Monitoring: Monitor and log server performance, ensuring proper resource utilization.
Proactive Maintenance: Ensure high availability and reliability of IT services through proactive maintenance and troubleshooting.
Documentation: Document IT configurations, changes, and procedures to maintain a central knowledge base.
Network Support: Support networking tasks, including basic switch configuration and firewall updates.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a proactive approach to IT management, with a strong focus on preventing issues before they occur. The ideal candidate will have experience with proactive maintenance strategies and be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and hands-on experience.

Experience:

3-5 years of professional experience in systems administration with a focus on Linux-based environments (e.g., Red Hat, CentOS, Ubuntu).
3-5 years of professional experience in helpdesk support functions with a focus on Windows-based infrastructure.
Proven experience managing servers, virtualization platforms, and enterprise infrastructure in on-prem or hybrid cloud environments such as AWS and Azure.

Required Skills:

Proficiency in Linux administration (Red Hat, CentOS, Ubuntu).
Experience with virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V).
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks.

Preferred Skills:

Industry certifications such as CompTIA A+, CompTIA N+, RHCSA, RHCE, CompTIA Linux+, or LPIC.
Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash).
Knowledge of IT service management frameworks (e.g., ITIL).

📝 Enhancement Note: While industry certifications are strongly preferred, they are not required for this role. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in Linux administration and a willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

A comprehensive portfolio showcasing Linux administration skills, including server configuration, deployment, and maintenance projects.
Examples of troubleshooting complex Linux server issues and optimizing server performance.
Documentation of IT infrastructure management projects, highlighting proactive maintenance strategies and best practices.

Technical Documentation:

Detailed documentation of Linux server configurations, including software stack, network settings, and security measures.
Step-by-step guides for server deployment, upgrade, and maintenance processes.
Performance metrics and optimization techniques for Linux servers and IT infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a portfolio is not required for this role, providing examples of Linux administration projects and IT infrastructure management can help demonstrate the candidate's skills and commitment to the role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,000 - $120,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. This estimate is based on regional market data for Linux administrators with 3-5 years of experience.

Benefits:

100% Paid Medical, Dental, Disability, and Basic Life/AD&D Insurance
401K match
12 Paid Holidays
22 days PTO
Tuition Reimbursement and Professional Development
Flexible Spending accounts for both medical and dependent care
Social hours and company events

Working Hours: Full-time, on-site position with standard office hours and occasional on-call responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This salary range is an estimate based on regional market data and may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience. X-Chem offers a comprehensive benefits package to support its employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Biotechnology, focusing on small molecule discovery science and drug development.

Company Size: Medium-sized organization with a growing IT department.

Founded: 2012, with a mission to leverage the world's leading drug discovery platform to help create molecules that will improve human health.

Team Structure:

Collaborative, cross-functional IT team working closely with various departments to provide comprehensive IT support.
Flat organizational structure with opportunities for growth and professional development.

Development Methodology:

Agile/Scrum methodologies for IT project management, with a focus on continuous improvement and iterative development.
Regular team meetings and knowledge-sharing sessions to foster a culture of learning and growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: X-Chem's IT team works closely with various departments to ensure that IT services and infrastructure support the organization's mission and goals. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a dynamic, collaborative environment and be able to adapt to changing priorities and projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Mid-level IT Systems Administrator with opportunities for growth into senior roles, team leadership, or specialized technical positions.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Director of Information Technology, with opportunities for cross-functional collaboration with other IT team members and departmental stakeholders.

Technical Impact: Responsible for maintaining the organization's IT infrastructure, ensuring high availability and reliability of IT services, and providing end-user support to enable the company's mission-critical operations.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Growth: Develop expertise in emerging technologies, such as cloud migration, containerization, and infrastructure as code (IaC) practices.
Leadership Development: Gain experience in team management, mentoring, and architecture decision-making through cross-functional projects and internal initiatives.
Career Progression: Advance to senior IT roles, such as Senior Systems Administrator, IT Manager, or specialized technical positions, such as Cloud Architect or DevOps Engineer.

📝 Enhancement Note: X-Chem offers a dynamic and challenging work environment with ample opportunities for technical growth and career progression. The ideal candidate will be proactive, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning and development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space with open work areas, private offices, and dedicated meeting rooms.

Office Location(s): Waltham, MA, with opportunities for remote work for certain positions.

Workspace Context:

Collaboration: Open workspaces designed to encourage team interaction and knowledge-sharing.
Equipment: Modern IT equipment, including high-performance workstations, multiple monitors, and specialized software tools.
Accessibility: Conveniently located near public transportation, with on-site parking and bike storage facilities.

Work Schedule: Standard office hours with flexible working arrangements, including remote work options for certain positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: X-Chem's work environment is designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and work-life balance. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a dynamic, team-oriented environment and be able to adapt to changing work arrangements and priorities.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone Screen: A brief phone call to assess communication skills and technical qualifications.
On-site Interview: A comprehensive on-site interview with the IT team, including technical assessments, behavioral questions, and cultural fit evaluations.
Final Interview: A final interview with the Director of Information Technology to discuss career growth opportunities and next steps.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight Linux administration projects that demonstrate your ability to manage complex server environments and optimize performance.
Include examples of IT infrastructure management projects that showcase your ability to ensure high availability and reliability of IT services.
Emphasize your problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on Linux administration best practices, including server configuration, security, and performance optimization.
Familiarize yourself with X-Chem's IT environment and company culture to demonstrate your understanding of the role and organization.
Prepare for behavioral questions that assess your ability to work collaboratively, adapt to changing priorities, and manage multiple tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: X-Chem's interview process is designed to evaluate the candidate's technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit. The ideal candidate will be proactive, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning and development.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Operating Systems:

Linux (Ubuntu, Red Hat, CentOS)
Windows Server

Server Technologies:

Virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V)
Storage devices (NAS, SAN)
Enterprise infrastructure (AWS, Azure)

Networking:

Basic switch configuration and firewall updates
Network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP)

IT Service Management:

ITIL framework for IT service management and best practices
IT service desk tools (e.g., ServiceNow, Jira Service Management)

📝 Enhancement Note: X-Chem's IT infrastructure is built on a combination of on-prem and cloud-based technologies, with a focus on high availability, scalability, and security. The ideal candidate will have experience with enterprise-level IT infrastructure and be comfortable working with a diverse technology stack.

👥 Team Culture & Values

IT Team Values:

Collaboration: Work together to provide comprehensive IT support and drive IT capabilities to meet organizational goals.
Adaptability: Embrace change and continuously learn and improve to stay ahead of evolving technology trends.
Reliability: Ensure high availability and reliability of IT services through proactive maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.
Customer Focus: Prioritize the needs of internal customers and strive to provide exceptional IT support and service.

Team Dynamics:

Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with various departments to understand their unique IT needs and provide tailored solutions.
Knowledge-sharing: Share expertise and learn from colleagues to foster a culture of continuous learning and growth.
Mentoring: Provide guidance and support to junior team members and help them develop their technical skills and careers.

📝 Enhancement Note: X-Chem's IT team values collaboration, adaptability, and customer focus, with a strong commitment to continuous learning and improvement. The ideal candidate will be a team player, comfortable working in a dynamic environment, and eager to contribute to the team's success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Server Management: Manage a diverse fleet of Linux servers, virtualization platforms, and enterprise infrastructure, ensuring high availability and optimal performance.
IT Infrastructure Optimization: Continuously evaluate and optimize IT infrastructure to meet the organization's evolving needs and ensure cost-effectiveness.
Emerging Technologies: Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies, such as cloud migration, containerization, and infrastructure as code (IaC) practices, and integrate them into the organization's IT strategy.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Training: Participate in regular training sessions, workshops, and online courses to develop your skills and stay current with industry best practices.
Conferences & Events: Attend industry conferences, webinars, and meetups to network with peers, learn from experts, and gain insights into emerging technologies.
Mentoring & Coaching: Seek guidance from senior team members, industry experts, and online communities to accelerate your technical growth and career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: X-Chem offers a dynamic and challenging work environment with ample opportunities for technical growth and career progression. The ideal candidate will be proactive, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning and development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Linux Administration: Demonstrate your proficiency in Linux server configuration, management, and troubleshooting, with a focus on performance optimization and security.
IT Infrastructure Management: Showcase your experience with enterprise-level IT infrastructure, including server management, virtualization, and cloud migration.
Problem-solving: Present examples of complex technical challenges you've faced and how you've approached them, highlighting your ability to think critically and find innovative solutions.

Company & Culture Questions:

IT Team Dynamics: Discuss your experience working in cross-functional teams and how you've contributed to a collaborative, adaptive, and customer-focused environment.
IT Strategy Alignment: Explain how you've aligned IT strategies with business objectives and ensured that IT services support the organization's mission and goals.
Continuous Learning: Describe your approach to staying current with emerging technologies, industry best practices, and continuous learning and development.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Linux Administration Projects: Highlight your Linux administration projects, focusing on server configuration, deployment, and maintenance tasks, as well as any troubleshooting or optimization efforts.
IT Infrastructure Management Projects: Showcase your IT infrastructure management projects, emphasizing your ability to ensure high availability, scalability, and security, as well as any cost-saving or optimization initiatives.
Problem-solving Examples: Present case studies or anecdotes that demonstrate your problem-solving skills, highlighting your ability to identify root causes, evaluate options, and implement effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: X-Chem's interview process is designed to evaluate the candidate's technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit. The ideal candidate will be proactive, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning and development.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this IT Systems Administrator - Linux Specialist position at X-Chem:

Review the Job Description: Carefully read and understand the job requirements, responsibilities, and qualifications.
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your relevant Linux administration, IT infrastructure management, and problem-solving skills, as well as any experience working in a collaborative, dynamic environment.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio showcasing your Linux administration projects, IT infrastructure management initiatives, and problem-solving examples, with a focus on performance optimization, security, and high availability.
Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with X-Chem's mission, industry, and company culture to demonstrate your understanding and enthusiasm for the role and organization.
Practice Technical Interview Questions: Brush up on your Linux administration and IT infrastructure management skills, and practice answering technical interview questions to build confidence and refine your responses.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Reflect on your experience working in cross-functional teams, managing complex IT environments, and driving continuous improvement, and practice articulating your approach to problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability.
Submit Your Application: Submit your application through the provided link, including your resume, portfolio, and any other required documents.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

IT Systems Administrator - Linux Specialist