Senior Linux Engineer

The Role:

As a Senior Linux Engineer, you will be responsible for leading the development, implementation, and maintenance of automation and configuration standards to support the management and security of new and existing Linux instances (virtual and physical) for Cognex, worldwide.  You will work with IT, Security, PMO, DevOps and Software Development Teams to agree and establish a Linux endpoint management strategy, automation and configuration management standards, security and monitoring requirements, and policy and compliance requirements.  With cross functional support, you will lead and champion the implementation, communications and adoption of the Linux endpoint management plan across Cognex, with your success being measured by Linux instances managed and compliant with the management standard. 

As the Linux endpoint management program matures and compliance is achieved, you will pick-up additional responsibilities for Linux and Infrastructure engineering and automation supporting Cognex development and production cloud environments providing DevOps support to Cognex product and application development communities. 

Essential Functions:

• Linux System Management:

• Manage and maintain 1000+ Unix/Linux cases across the organization, ensuring operational efficiency and security compliance. 
• Serve as the primary Systems Administrator for Linux Endpoints, including servers and workstations, ensuring full compliance with company policies and procedures. 
• Monitor and support Linux-based systems to ensure optimal performance, security, and reliability. 
• Review and contribute to the development of policies and responsibilities related to Linux Endpoint Management, in collaboration with the Policy Owner. 
• Ensure Linux endpoints comply with security and operational policies. 

• Linux Endpoint Management Strategy:

• Lead and contribute to the development and implementation of our Linux Endpoint Management strategy. 
• Collaborate with Platform Engineering to define scope, requirements, and strategies for managing Linux endpoints. 
• Work closely with software development teams to implement pilot projects for Linux Endpoint Management. 
• Review and develop detailed project plans, identifying initial use cases (e.g., build machines vs. desktops) and establishing clear goals and timelines for successful implementation. 

• Implementation And Communication:

• Draft and communicate policies, management guidelines, and implementation strategies for Linux Endpoint Management across the organization. 
• Lead initial pilot projects to implement Linux Endpoint Management, ensuring timely execution, testing, and monitoring. 
• Inventory and track Linux devices for pilot teams, updating asset inventories with key attributes. 
• Establish and manage devices in the Linux Management Platform for streamlined automation and configuration. 

• Automation & Configuration Management:

• Leverage Linux Management Platform for the configuration and management of new Linux VMs, ensuring adherence to management standards such as hardened configurations, encryption, security tools, and patching. 
• For existing VMs, ensure timely OS updates, security patching, and installation of monitoring and management tools including, AV/EDR and other Security tools/agents). 
• Implement and monitor system security and compliance, ensuring all systems are properly configured and up-to-date with the latest security patches and software updates. 

• Security & Monitoring:

• Implement system hardening configurations, including encrypted VM setups and security tools. 
• Ensure all systems adhere to security best practices, including device encryption, patch management, and secure configurations. 
• Develop and maintain a robust methodology for updating and patching systems, ensuring continued compliance and protection against vulnerabilities. 

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities:

Advanced Knowledge And Skills:

• Administration and management of Linux systems, security, and automation platforms and tools. 
• System hardening, VM configuration, and patch management methodologies. 
• Automation tools and techniques for system management and configuration. 
• Large-scale Linux endpoint management and automation. 
• Managing infrastructure and systems in a cloud environment (AWS, Azure, etc.). 
• Ansible for configuration management and automation. 
• Ansible, Puppet; Foreman; Chef; Atlassian Jira; Confluence; Service Now 
• VMWare; VSphere; AWS; Azure; Terraform; Docker 
• IT security tools such as MS Defender, Rapid7, and encryption standards. 

Advanced Abilities:

• Communication and Documentation: advanced communication skills to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Ability to document security designs, configurations, and procedures effectively.  
• Continuous Learning: Willingness to stay updated with the latest information & cyber security trends, technologies, and certifications. Actively pursue professional development and participate in relevant training programs.  
• Excellent communication skills and experience working with cross-functional teams to implement and manage policies. 
• Excellent project management skills and evidence of relevant capabilities/experience. 
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues in a timely manner. 
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of Linux systems and endpoint management projects. 
• Ability to manage and lead technical teams. 
• Proficiency in project management and planning. 
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously. 
• Strong attention to detail. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders across the organization. 

Education And Work Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent work experience. 
• Proven experience managing Linux-based systems in an enterprise environment, including both servers and workstations (min 5 years). 
• Proven experience developing, leveraging and managing automation tools and scripts for Linux based systems management. 
• Excellent communication and leadership skills 
• Industry certifications in Linux- Administration, Management, Security, Automation, Cloud Infrastructure, DevOps