IT Systems Administrator - Linux Specialist

At X-Chem, it is our mission to leverage the world’s leading drug discovery platform to help create molecules that will improve human health.  X-Chem is a leader in small molecule discovery science, providing pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies a complete, seamless solution for screening, hit validation, and lead optimization. As pioneers of DNA-encoded chemical library (DEL) technology, the company leverages its market-leading DEL platform to rapidly screen billions of diverse drug-like molecules to discover novel small molecule leads against challenging, high-value therapeutic targets. In house hit-to-lead and lead optimization services driven by AI and physics-based modeling enable clients to progress their compounds directly from hit all the way through to candidate nomination. Our well-proven expertise in medicinal chemistry, custom synthesis, and scale-up process chemistry enables us to support all aspects of drug discovery in a deeply integrated technology-driven platform. 

This role is critical to providing helpdesk and end-user support, while also assisting in the maintenance of our IT systems and infrastructure. As an IT Systems Administrator (Linux Specialist), you will be a key contributor to day-to-day operations and play a supporting role in advancing our IT capabilities to meet organizational goals. This position reports to the Director of Information Technology.

Essential Job Functions:

• Provide general IT support for hardware, software, and network issues across the organization.
• Set up and configure desktop and laptop systems for new and existing employees.
• Support end-users with system issues, ticketing systems, and basic troubleshooting.
• Assist in managing corporate email systems, printers, and shared resources.
• Manage the organization’s IT infrastructure, including servers, storage devices, and virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V).
• Install, configure, and maintain Linux servers, including distributions such as Ubuntu and Red Hat.
• Perform regular system updates, patches, and upgrades to maintain stability and security on assets and key-infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot server-related issues to minimize downtime and ensure optimal performance.
• Manage user accounts, permissions, and access controls on Linux and Windows servers.
• Monitor and log server performance, ensuring proper resource utilization.
• Ensure high availability and reliability of IT services through proactive maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Document IT configurations, changes, and procedures to maintain a central knowledge base.
• Support networking tasks, including basic switch configuration and firewall updates.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and hands-on 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.
• Industry certifications such as CompTIA A+, CompTIA N+, RHCSA, RHCE, CompTIA Linux+, or LPIC are strongly preferred but not required.

Skills:

• Effective time management and prioritization skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication for collaborating with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Adaptability to handle diverse tasks, from advanced Linux troubleshooting to basic IT support.
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining system security and reliability.

Working Conditions:

This position is onsite in Waltham, MA. While most daily tasks involve light physical activity and non-strenuous duties, the role may occasionally require lifting, pulling, or maneuvering IT equipment such as servers, racks, and networking gear, which may weigh up to 50 pounds. Proper lifting techniques and safety equipment will be provided as needed. The environment includes standard office and data center settings.

Why you should join us:

X-Chem offers highly competitive compensation based on prior experience and qualifications as well as comprehensive benefits in order to best support our people.  Benefits we currently offer include: 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. Our work environment includes casual dress, bike storage, free parking, and wellness perks.

EEO Statement:

X-Chem is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.