There are many job opportunities throughout the United States that list Linux as an important skill required. The demand for IT jobs has increased dramatically over the years. More and more IT jobs are now requiring knowledge of Linux and including it in their job description. Many companies are moving towards a Linux-based system and those job candidates knowing their way around the open source world are in high demand.
A career in specifically Linux is not as common as one where knowledge of Linux is one of many requirements. Many jobs available now require not only Linux, but also Java, C++, Oracle, among other skills. The minimum degree specified for various jobs in the IT world where Linux is used is a Bachelor in Computer Science. Fields such as Computer Programming or Web Development now require at least intermediate knowledge of Linux or other open source software.
The pay range varies widely for jobs requiring Linux, based on location, job title, education level and level of experience with not only Linux but also programming languages and database design. With researching PayScale.com for jobs requiring Linux as a skill, I found that a System Administrator can make nearly $55,000 a year while a Sr. Software Engineer can make upwards of $97,000 a year. Both jobs listed above do require much more extensive education and experience and knowledge of many other skills.
There was an interesting job at HP that looks more specific to Linux. The title of the job is Linux Administrator – Linux Clusters. It is a part-time job in Omaha, Nebraska requiring a Bachelors Degree and 16+ years experience. They want 3 years experience working with clusters, a strong expertise with RedHat Linux, Cluster Management Utility, Linux operating systems and networking, among other skills. There was no mention of needing to know various programming languages like many of the other jobs I've seen posted. I did not see a salary posted for the job but indeed.com shows that a Linux Administrator in Omaha, Nebraska would make about $67,000. The same job title here in Reno would have a salary of $78,000 a year.
With what I have seen online, most jobs that require Linux also require a higher education and many years of experience. With just starting out in the field, it would be beneficial I think to look into finding entry-level jobs or work as an intern. There is a job for a Linux Desktop Support Intern in Chicago, Illinois for DRW Trading Group. The requirements seem to be more suited for just starting out in the field after perhaps an associate's degree. They require a strong experience supporting Linux with strong Ubuntu skills a plus. That was interesting to actually see what we use in class, Ubuntu, as a skill desired among the company. Other skills include basic support for various operating systems, desktops, mobile devices, etc.
After researching the many jobs available out there, I believe the best one for me would an internship. Although there is little to no pay involved, there are many benefits. For example, the job listed above in Chicago offers fully furnished apartments, medical insurance, 401k, tuition reimbursement among other things. I feel it would be an excellent way to get your foot in the door and also make invaluable networking connections. With the economy still hurting leaving many without jobs, those jobs still left are competed for by highly qualified individuals. With that, I think an internship sounds like a smart move.
No comments:
Post a Comment