The Five Top Linux Careers

Posted on December 28, 2022

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

Linux is an open-source operating system with a dominant presence in all industries, used in embedded systems, mobile phones, supercomputers, and IoT devices.
Linux offers a wide range of career opportunities, with high-paying salaries and the ability to specialize in different niches.
The top 5 Linux careers are DevOps Engineer, Systems Administrator, Linux Kernel Developer, Systems Engineer, and Network Engineer.

Here we will discuss the five top Linux Careers. Linux is an open-source operating system with a dominant presence in all industries. Many websites are hosted on servers running Linux. Linux is often used in embedded systems, such as routers, smart TVs, and industrial control systems. In mobile phones, Linux is the underlying operating system for many Android devices. Many supercomputers use Linux due to its ability to mass data and ability to run on a wide range of hardware. While Linux is not as widely used on desktop computers as other operating systems, it is a popular choice for some users due to its customization options and security features. And Linux is often used in Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as smart home devices, due to its small footprint and ability to run on low-power hardware.

In this article, I will discuss Linux, the Linux Foundation, Linux Training, and the 5 top Linux careers:

DevOps Engineer
Systems Administrator
Linux Kernel Developer
Systems Engineer
Network Engineer

What is Linux?

Linux is an open-source computer operating system that is based on UNIX. Linux was invented in 1991 by Linus Torvalds for his own use. Linux, or a Linux derivative, is the most common operating system in the world. You find Linux everywhere: in small, embedded devices, mobile phones, personal computers, network servers, supercomputers, and even spacecraft. Linux technology is ever evolving.

Why Seek a Linux Career?

Linux careers pay well. The average salary for a Linux career is $90,000. The lowest Linux salary is about $60,000, while with experience and expertise you can expect to earn $200,000 per year. You also have a wide range of occupations. Since Linux is everywhere, you can expand into many different niches. A Linux career places you at the fascinating center of the advancing technological world. Your career is only limited by your imagination.

What is The Linux Foundation?

The Linux Foundation is the primary organization that serves Linux users. Linux is open-source and lacks a single corporation to centralize standards and training. The Linux Foundation oversees the evolution of Linux technology and supports diverse technological deployments. The Linux Foundation maintains numerous workgroups that develop different aspects of Linux.

Linux Training and Certification at the Linux Foundation

Since the Linux Foundation is the main authority for Linux, it offers the best resources for teaching and certification. The Foundation presents state-of-the-art online courses to gain Linux proficiency and certification.

The 5 Top Linux Careers:

DevOps Engineer

A Linux DevOps Engineer is responsible for the development and operation of an organization’s infrastructure and applications that run on Linux systems. This typically involves working with a team to design, implement, and maintain a Linux-based infrastructure that is scalable, reliable, and secure.

Some specific tasks that a Linux DevOps Engineer might be responsible for include:

Setting up and configuring Linux servers and other infrastructure components, such as load balancers, networking devices, and storage systems
Deploying and managing applications on Linux systems, using tools such as Docker, Kubernetes, and Ansible
Monitoring and troubleshooting issues with the Linux infrastructure and applications, including identifying and fixing problems and performance bottlenecks
Collaborating with other team members to design and implement infrastructure and deployment processes that are efficient and automated
Working with other teams, such as development, QA, and security, to ensure that the infrastructure and applications meet the needs and requirements of the organization
Participating in the design and implementation of security measures to protect the Linux infrastructure and applications

A Linux DevOps Engineer is responsible for ensuring the smooth and reliable operation of an organization’s Linux-based systems and applications, and for collaborating with other teams to continuously improve and optimize those systems. DevOps unifies and automates the development and operations of IT infrastructure.

Systems Administrator

A Linux Systems Administrator is responsible for the installation, configuration, and maintenance of an organization’s Linux-based systems and networks. This typically involves collaborating with a team to ensure that the systems are up to date, secure, and running smoothly.

Tasks that a Linux Systems Administrator is responsible for include:

Installing and configuring Linux operating systems, including setting up networking and security settings
Managing user accounts and permissions on Linux systems
Managing system updates and patches, including installing and testing new software and applications
Monitoring system performance and identifying and troubleshooting problems
Setting up and maintaining network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls
Collaborating with other teams, such as development and operations, to ensure that the systems and networks meet the needs and requirements of the organization
Participating in the design and implementation of security measures to protect the Linux systems and networks

A Linux Systems Administrator is responsible for the operation and maintenance of an organization’s Linux-based systems and networks, and for ensuring that they are secure and reliable. The administrator is also responsible for security of the computer systems and servers and by implementing established security practices and protocols. A Linux System Administrator work with computer system engineers to install the system. The Linux administrator updates the system and grants permissions for users.

Linux Kernel Developer

A Linux Kernel Developer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the Linux kernel. A Linux Kernel Developer employs C programming languages, so kernel developers usually write code in C++ and C. Linux Kernel Developers test and debug Linux applications, drivers, and other tools for kernels.

The kernel is the core of the Linux operating system and is responsible for managing the hardware resources of a computer and providing the necessary interface between the hardware and the software that runs on it.

Responsibilities that a Linux Kernel Developer takes include:

Designing and implementing new features and functionality for the Linux kernel
Debugging and fixing issues with the Linux kernel
Collaborating with other kernel developers to design and implement new kernel features and improvements
Reviewing and testing code changes made by other kernel developers
Working with the open-source community to coordinate the development and maintenance of the Linux kernel
Participating in the Linux Kernel Mailing List (LKML) and other online forums to discuss and resolve issues related to the Linux kernel

A Linux Kernel Developer is responsible for the development and maintenance of the Linux kernel, and for collaborating with other kernel developers and the open-source community to continuously improve and optimize the kernel. A Linux Kernel Developer manages the hardware, memory usage, and transfer of data to different storage devices to ensure tasks work smoothly and simultaneously. The job includes creating open-source operating systems for laptops, desktop computers, tablets, and phones. Linux Kernel Developers also create programs for automated machinery and embedded systems for routers.

Systems Engineer

Linux Systems Engineers work with all aspects of Linux deployments. Systems engineers work with other Linux teams across disciplines, understanding the big picture of how Linux systems integrate. They resolve technical difficulties, find inefficiencies, and propose improvements. This involves working with a team to ensure that the systems are up to date, secure, and running smoothly.

Tasks that a Linux Systems Engineer do include:

Designing and implementing Linux-based systems and networks, including selecting hardware and software components and configuring networking and security settings
Managing and maintaining Linux systems and networks, including installing updates and patches, monitoring system performance, and troubleshooting problems
Collaborating with other teams, such as development and operations, to ensure that the systems and networks meet the needs and requirements of the organization
Participating in the design and implementation of security measures to protect the Linux systems and networks
Automating system and network tasks using tools such as Ansible, Puppet, or Chef
Providing technical support and troubleshooting assistance to users and other team members

Linux Systems Engineers work with both technical and client teams, so they need solid communication skills. Engineers employ effective management and leadership skills to guide projects from conception to completion. A Linux Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of an organization’s Linux-based systems and networks, and for ensuring that they are secure and reliable.

Network Engineer

Linux network engineers configure and manage networks of servers that use Linux, working in partnership with software engineers and technicians to develop and deliver Linux network deployments. Network engineers use software tools and IP network technologies to monitor network performance, troubleshoot problems, and maintain system security. Network engineers maximize uptime and processing power of Linux networks.

Duties that a Network Engineer fulfills include:

Designing and implementing network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls
Configuring networking and security settings on network devices
Managing and maintaining network devices and infrastructure, including installing updates and patches and troubleshooting problems
Collaborating with other teams, such as development and operations, to ensure that the networks meet the needs and requirements of the organization
Participating in the design and implementation of security measures to protect the network
Providing technical support and troubleshooting assistance to users and other team members

Network Engineer is in control of the design, implementation, and maintenance of an organization’s computer networks, and for making sure they are protected and dependable. Network Engineers may work with a variety of technologies, including Linux, Windows, and other operating systems.

A Network Engineer creates and maintains local documentation. They should have the willingness and the capability to master emerging technologies and provide support for them.

Linux Foundation Courses

The Linux Foundation offers a range of courses that help professionals working in various Linux-related careers, including Linux DevOps Engineer, Linux Systems Administrator, Linux Kernel Developer, Linux Systems Engineer, and Network Engineer. Most of these courses are accredited for Linux Certifications

Linux DevOps Engineer Courses

The Linux Foundation offers several courses that are important for professionals who work as Linux DevOps Engineers, including:

DevOps and SRE Fundamentals: Implementing Continuous Delivery (LFS261): This course is designed to give students an understanding of the principles, tools and practices of DevOps and Site Reliability Engineering. It focuses on topics such as automation, continuous integration/delivery, security, monitoring, and infrastructure. The course includes hands-on labs that provide practical experience with the latest DevOps and SRE tools and practices. It also covers topics such as infrastructure as code, containerization, and microservices.
Implementing DevSecOps (LFS262): This course is an introduction to the foundational principles, tools, and practices of DevOps and Site Reliability Engineering (SRE). Topics covered include automation, continuous integration/delivery, security, monitoring, and infrastructure. Through hands-on labs, students will gain practical experience with the latest DevOps and SRE tools and practices. The course also covers infrastructure as code, containerization, and microservices.
Introduction to DevOps and Site Reliability Engineering (LFS162x): This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to the principles, tools, and practices of DevOps and Site Reliability Engineering. It covers topics such as automation, continuous delivery, security, monitoring, and infrastructure. Through hands-on labs, students will gain practical experience with the latest DevOps and SRE tools and practices. The course also covers topics such as infrastructure as code, containerization, and microservices.
Introduction to DevSecOps for Managers (LFS180x): This course is designed to give managers an understanding of the principles, tools, and practices of DevSecOps. It covers topics such as security testing, automation, continuous integration/delivery, and infrastructure. The course also covers topics such as vulnerability management, container security, and compliance.

Systems Administrator Courses

The Linux Foundation offers twenty-one courses for Linux Systems Administrators, several of which are free. The Linux Foundation offers has courses for Linux Administrator Certification too. These include:

Introduction to Linux (LFS101x): This free course is an introduction to the Linux operating system and its command-line interface. It covers topics such as basic Linux concepts, the command-line shell, and common Linux commands.
Open Source Software Development: Linux for Developers (LFD107x): This free course is designed for developers who want to learn about open-source software development and Linux. It covers topics such as the open-source development model, version control with Git, and how to use Linux as a development platform.
Introduction to Open Source Development, Git, and Linux (LFD201): This course is designed for professionals who want to learn about open-source development, Git, and Linux. It covers topics such as the open-source development model, version control with Git, and how to use Linux as a development platform.
Fundamentals of Open Source IT and Cloud Computing (LFS200): This course is designed for professionals who want to learn about open-source IT and cloud computing. It covers topics such as cloud computing concepts, open-source technologies used in cloud computing, and how to deploy and manage cloud environments using open-source tools.

Linux Kernel Developer Courses

The Linux Foundation offers eight courses about Linux Kernel development, including:

Beginner’s Guide to Linux Kernel Development (LFD103): This course is designed for professionals who are new to Linux kernel development and want to learn the basics. It covers topics such as the structure of the Linux kernel, how to build and modify the kernel, and how to contribute to the kernel development process.
Linux Kernel Debugging and Security (LFD440): This course is designed for professionals who want to learn how to debug and secure the Linux kernel. It covers topics such as common kernel debugging techniques, how to find and fix kernel bugs, and how to secure the kernel against vulnerabilities and exploits.
Linux Kernel Internals and Development (LFD420): This course is designed for professionals who want to learn about the internals of the Linux kernel and how to develop kernel code. It covers topics such as kernel architecture, data structures, and algorithms, and it includes hands-on exercises to help students learn how to write and debug kernel code.

Linux Systems Engineer Courses

The Linux Foundation offers three courses for System Engineers:

Linux Networking and Administration (LFS211): This course is designed for professionals who want to learn about Linux networking and system administration. It covers topics such as networking concepts, network configuration and troubleshooting, and system administration tasks such as managing users and security.
Open Source Virtualization (LFS462): This course is designed for professionals who want to learn about open-source virtualization technologies, including OpenStack and KVM. It covers topics such as virtualization concepts, how to deploy and manage virtualization environments, and how to troubleshoot virtualization issues.
Linux for System Engineers (LFS311): This course is designed for professionals who want to learn how to use Linux for system engineering tasks. It covers topics such as Linux command-line tools, system administration, and shell scripting, and it includes hands-on exercises to help students learn how to use Linux to automate tasks and manage systems.

Network Engineer Courses

The Linux Foundation offers a number of courses that are relevant for professionals who work as network engineers, including:

Introduction to Open Source Networking Technologies (LFS165x): This free course provides students with an introduction to the principles, tools, and practices of open source networking technologies. It covers topics such as virtualization, automation, network protocols, and containerization.
Open Source and the 5G Transition (LFS111x): This free course provides students with an understanding of the principles, technologies, and applications related to the 5G transition. It covers topics such as virtualization, automation, cloud-native architectures, and open source solutions.
Linux Networking and Administration (LFS211): This course is designed to give students an understanding of the principles, tools, and practices of Linux networking and administration. It covers topics such as network configuration, troubleshooting, security, and automation.
DevOps for Network Engineers (LFS266): This course provides students with an understanding of the principles, tools, and practices of DevOps for network engineers. It covers topics such as automation, continuous integration/delivery, security, monitoring, and infrastructure.
ONAP Fundamentals (LFS263): This course provides students with an understanding of the principles, tools, and practices of the Open Network Automation Platform (ONAP). It covers topics such as orchestration, service modeling, and security.

Overall, the Linux Foundation‘s courses are an invaluable resource for professionals working in various Linux-related careers, as they provide an opportunity to learn and demonstrate knowledge and skills in key areas such as system administration, networking, and cloud computing.

The Linux Foundation provides courses to attain proficiency and certification for these careers.

See the courses at the full catalog of Linux Foundation courses.