TxDMV - Linux Systems Administrator (Cybersecurity)

• State Title: Systems Administrator IV
• Flexible work location within the state of Texas may be considered for qualified candidates. 
• Telework may be available based on TxDMV operational needs

To apply for this position, complete an on-line application through the Applicant Career Section or through WorkInTexas. TxDMV does not accept paper applications. 

Applicants who require accommodation for the interview process should contact Human Resources at 512-465-4043 when contacted to schedule an interview.

General Description

Our mission at the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) is to serve, protect and advance the citizens and industries in the state with quality motor vehicle related services.  We are a dynamic state agency dedicated to customer service, consumer protection and the success of motor vehicle-related industries.

Performs advanced systems administration and cybersecurity duties, integrating Linux server administration with cybersecurity monitoring, incident response, and secure configuration. Ensures system integrity, confidentiality, and availability in accordance with state and federal standards, while maintaining operational excellence. 

Essential Duties

• Install, configure, update, and maintain Linux servers and associated software stacks.
• Develop and maintain server hardening standards, configuration baselines, and SOPs.
• Troubleshoot system issues and conduct performance tuning, patch management, and capacity planning.
• Implement and manage backups, disaster recovery planning, and restoration protocols.
• Conduct vulnerability scans and continuous monitoring across servers and networks, managing identified risks and coordinating remediation efforts.
• Detect, investigate, and respond to security incidents affecting Linux infrastructure, coordinating with the incident response team.
• Administer and fine-tune security controls: firewalls, IDS/IPS, log analysis, authentication, and encryption.
• Aid in the development and enforcement of security policies, standards, and procedures (e.g., aligning with TAC 202, NIST SP-800).
• Assist in compliance activities (pen testing, periodic audits, reporting, and external/internal reviews).
• Maintain accurate documentation: network diagrams, configuration records, incident logs, and remediation steps.
• Develop and deliver cybersecurity awareness, secure administration training, and technical guidance to staff.
• Collaborate with infrastructure, IT, and audit teams, including assisting with internal/external audit responses.
• There is potential for on-call support for after-hours incident response. Potential for occasional travel and on-site support, as needed.
• May travel up to 5% of the time. Travels by car (may include flying). May include overnight travel. May require working extended hours and some evenings and weekends, as needed.
• Required to attend work regularly and adhere to approved work hours in accordance with department policies and procedures.
• To be hired and to continue to maintain employment, the applicant/employee must have the ability to maintain the security and integrity of the infrastructure.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

Knowledge Of:

• Cybersecurity principles, practices, and procedures.
• Linux (RHEL) server environments and associated software stacks (SFTP, Apache etc.).
• Vulnerability assessment, risk management, and the incident response lifecycle.
• Security frameworks and compliance standards (NIST, ISO 27001, TAC 202).
• Advanced security tools for forensics, penetration testing, and threat hunting (e.g., Nessus, Splunk).
• Complex network environments, protocols, and services (TCP/IP, routing, DNS, DHCP).

Skill In:

• Using and configuring security and system administration tools.
• Advanced scripting (e.g., Python, Bash or Perl) for automation and configuration.
• Analyzing complex technical issues and developing effective, logical solutions.
• Leading technical projects and mentoring team members.
• Effective verbal and written communication, including explaining technical concepts to diverse audiences.

Ability To:

• Maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure.
• Architect and implement comprehensive security solutions.
• Analyze systems and procedures to identify and mitigate security risks.
• Manage multiple tasks, document clearly, support audits, and meet deadlines.
• Work cooperatively and effectively in a team environment with minimal supervision.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of staff.
• Effectively communicate and collaborate, capable of explaining technical concepts to diverse audiences.

The above statements are not a complete list of all responsibilities, duties and skills held or performed by employees in this job. Employees may perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

Education And Experience

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field, plus four (4) years of experience in Systems Administration, Systems Engineering, or Identity & Access Management (IAM). Additional related experience may be substituted for education on a year-per-year basis. To be hired and to continue to maintain employment, the applicant/employee must have the ability to maintain the security and integrity of the infrastructure.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least three years of experience installing, configuring, updating, and maintaining Linux servers and associated software stacks, including common applications like SFTP and Apache.  
• Experience developing and maintaining server hardening standards, configuration baselines, and SOPs. 
• Experience mitigating vulnerabilities identified by common scanners (e.g., Nessus, OpenVAS) and managing security events through SIEM, log management, and IPS/IDS tools.”
• Relevant Certifications such as: RHCE, CompTIA Linux+, CISSP, CISM, CISA, Security+, GIAC, or similar. 
• Familiarity with NIST frameworks (e.g., SP 80053), incident response, and secure configuration standards. 
• Experience in incident response, threat hunting, and security monitoring for Linux server environments. 
• Contributions to security policy development and technical training. 
• Familiarity with cloud or hybrid environments (e.g., AWS/Azure Linux resources) and the Texas state DCS program. 
• Prior experience with state government IT/cybersecurity frameworks or audit processes. 

  Additional Information

• Relevant Certifications such as: RHCE, CompTIA Linux+, CISSP, CISM, CISA, Security+, GIAC, or similar. 
• Familiarity with NIST frameworks (e.g., SP 80053), incident response, and secure configuration standards. 
• Experience in incident response, threat hunting, and security monitoring for Linux server environments. 
• Contributions to security policy development and technical training. 

Benefits

The State of Texas offers a variety of benefits for you and your family that are comprehensive and, on average, make up about one-third of total compensation. Benefits include:

ü    Retirement Plan

ü    Paid Group Health & Life Insurance for employees

ü    Paid Holidays

ü    Paid Vacation Leave

ü    Paid Sick Leave

ü    Longevity Pay

ü    Dental

ü    Vision

ü    Dependent Optional Life Insurance

ü    Voluntary AD&D Insurance

ü    Dependent Health & Life Insurance

ü    Health & Dependent care flexible spending accounts

ü    Tuition Assistance Program

QUALIFIED EMPLOYER: In addition, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles is considered a qualified employer for the Department of Education’s Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

Registration, Certification And/Or Licensure

A valid Class "C" driver's license is required. If not currently a Texas resident, must obtain a Texas Driver's License within ninety (90) days after entering Texas as a new resident. A satisfactory driving record is required for operating state or personal vehicles to conduct department business.

JOB OFFERS AND CONTINUATION OF EMPLOYMENT IS CONTINGENT UPON:

• Proof of education and experience listed on the application
• Eligibility to work in the United States
• Satisfactory results from a pre-employment criminal history background check and driver’s record check
• Compliance with Selective Service registration for males ages 18-25
• Required to attend work regularly and observe approved work hours in accordance with department policies and procedures.

Military

If selected for the position the following must be provided for proof of military employment preference:

• Veteran must provide form DD 214
• Surviving Spouse or Orphan must provide DD 1300 or DD 214.

Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) codes that may correspond to the state classification title for this position are listed on the State Auditor’s Office Job Descriptions; click on the occupational category for the position. Additional MOS can be found at the State Auditor’s Office Military Crosswalk Guide.

The Texas Veterans Commission provides helpful employment information.

Submission Of Application

Your application must be complete, accurate and reflect all experience and education.  Omission of data can be the basis for disqualification. "See Resume" is not accepted in lieu of a completed online State of Texas application but attached resumes may be considered as additional supplemental information.  

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, pregnancy, disability, military status, age, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law. The TxDMV provides accommodations for persons with disabilities in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act.  If you need help with the employment process or require other accommodation, please contact the Human Resources office for assistance on 512-465-4043.