Senior UNIX Administrator

Job Introduction: At Serco, we don't just support space exploration—we help make it possible. For decades, we've been a trusted partner at ESA's European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt, Germany, playing a vital role in some of the most ambitious space missions humanity has ever undertaken. From spacecraft operations to ground systems and data processing, our expertise has earned us recognition, including ESA's prestigious Best in Domain awards. Every day, we work hand-in-hand with ESA to ensure mission success and push the boundaries of innovation.
Now, we're looking for someone who wants to be part of this story.
Key Responsibilities:
Your Mission: Senior UNIX Administrator at ESOC
Imagine being the backbone of Europe's space operations, where every system you configure and every script you automate helps keep satellites in orbit and missions on track. As a Senior UNIX Administrator, you'll join the team that ensures ESA's critical IT infrastructure runs flawlessly—supporting spacecraft operations, ground systems, and mission control environments.
You'll take ownership of UNIX/Linux systems that underpin ESA's operations, ensuring they are secure, stable, and optimized for performance. From designing automation scripts to streamline processes, to planning and implementing patches and upgrades, your work will directly impact mission success.
What You'll Do:

• Install, configure, and maintain UNIX/Linux operating systems (SuSE Linux, RedHat).
• Diagnose, report, and resolve system software faults and user issues.
• Design and implement automated scripts/playbooks to replace manual processes (Ansible, Terraform).
• Plan, test, and execute maintenance activities such as patches, upgrades, and system enhancements.
• Collaborate closely with 1st-line, 3rd-line, and other internal support teams.
• Manage software packages and releases, including installation and inventory.
• Perform application configuration, tuning, and optimization.
• Conduct system auditing and maintain technical documentation.
• Support occasional out-of-hours activities during critical mission phases.

Beyond the day-to-day, you'll contribute to innovation—helping shape automation strategies and improving operational efficiency for future missions.
Skills: What You Bring: You're not just a UNIX expert—you're someone who thrives in complex, mission-critical environments. With a strong background in enterprise-level Linux administration, you understand what it takes to keep systems running flawlessly.
Core Expertise:

• 4+ years of experience in CLI-based administration of SuSE Linux (SLES) and/or RedHat Linux (RHEL). 
• Solid understanding of storage, networking, and scripting fundamentals. 
• Experience with enterprise backup solutions (e.g., NetBackup). 
• Knowledge of virtualization platforms (VMware ESX, vCloud Director) and provisioning tools (Autoyast, Kickstart). 
• Basic database administration (MySQL, MariaDB). 
• Proficiency in automation/orchestration tools (Ansible, Terraform).

Additional Strengths:

• Familiarity with IT Service Management frameworks (ITIL). 
• Experience with enterprise-grade hardware platforms. 
• Exposure to Solaris or VMS operating systems. 
• Knowledge of Kafka, Hadoop, Kubernetes ecosystems. 
• Professional certifications (RHCSA, CompTIA Linux+, LPIC1/2 or equivalent).

Communication matters in this role—you're fluent in English, both spoken and written. You're a self-starter who can work independently, yet you collaborate seamlessly with technical experts and management.
What We Offer: More Than Just a Job Joining Serco at ESOC isn't just about the work—it's about the experience. We know that moving for a role like this is a big step, so we make sure you're supported every step of the way:

• Relocation allowance (flight to Germany, airport transport, one month paid accommodation).
• Hybrid working model for flexibility.
• 30% discount on the Deutschland ticket for easy travel.
• Gym membership discount, pension and health schemes.
• 30 days of holiday for balance and exploration.

This isn't just a job—it's a chance to build a career in space operations while enjoying a lifestyle that supports you every step of the way.
About Serco:

Serco is a leading Space Services Provider with thousands of skilled resources that has supported over 50 space missions on behalf of more than 10 Space or Government agencies around the globe, including the likes of ESA, CNES, EUMETSAT, EUSPA, ASI and NASA.
We offer space capabilities across the full space lifecycle from satellite testing to Launch services, LEOP to spacecraft operations, space surveillance to data management, and supporting downstream application development. With over 55 years history in the space sector Serco is well placed to contribute to National strategies across Europe and the globe
We work within the heart of the space sector so understand the challenges our customers face. When it comes to recruitment we are experts in sourcing the very best talent within space engineering, earth observation, satellite communications and cyber security.
We have placed hundreds of people from post graduates through to C-suite executives into space agencies, satellite operators, manufacturers, system integrators, consultancies, earth observation/remote sensing, launch providers and much more.