Linux Enterprise Administrator (FTC until September 2026)

We have a new opportunity for a skilled and experienced Linux Enterprise Administrator to join our growing Technology team on fixed term contract basis (until September 2026). This role is offered on a hybrid basis from site in Frating, Colchester.

This is an exciting time to join our dynamic and innovative team as we continue to grow, and is an excellent opportunity to work with both cutting-edge technologies and enterprise systems. The successful candidate will have a deep understanding of enterprise Linux environments, hands-on experience with SAP HANA and proficiency in deploying and managing workloads in Microsoft Azure.

About the team

The Technology team provides expertise and effective solutions to Penguin Random House. We integrate flexibility and agility which supports our consistent way of working. We set ourselves up for success by holding ourselves accountable and welcoming change. Each member of the Technology team brings skill and initiative to their role; we take personal ownership within a one team culture, working collaboratively to meet expectations from our stakeholders who trust us to deliver.

The role

Key responsibilities:

Linux Administration

•    Manage and maintain SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) environments. 
•    Perform system monitoring, performance tuning, and troubleshooting. 
•    Ensure system security and compliance with industry standards and company policies. 
•    Automate routine tasks using scripting languages such as Bash, Python, or Perl. 

Azure Integration

•    Design, deploy, and manage Linux-based workloads in Microsoft Azure. 
•    Implement and manage virtual networks, storage accounts, and other Azure resources. 
•    Ensure high availability and disaster recovery for critical systems in Azure. 
•    Utilize Azure DevOps tools for CI/CD pipeline automation and infrastructure as code (IaC). 
•    Manage the patch management lifecycle of the Unix estate and work closely with the Security Operation Team in resolving vulnerabilities.

Collaboration and Support

•    Work closely with cross-functional teams, including developers, database administrators, and network engineers. 
•    Provide technical support and guidance to internal teams and stakeholders. 
•    Document system configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting steps.

What you’ll bring

Essential criteria

•    Proven experience as a Linux Administrator, specifically with SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES). 
•    Hands-on experience with SAP HANA administration and optimisation. 
•    Proficiency in Microsoft Azure, including experience with Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates, Azure CLI, and PowerShell. 
•    Strong scripting skills (e.g., Bash, Python, Perl) for automation and task management. 
•    Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities. 
•    Strong communication and collaboration skills. 

Desirable criteria

•    Relevant certifications (e.g., SUSE Certified Administrator, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator) are a plus.

Application instructions

Please apply with your CV by 23:59 on Wednesday 3rd September. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the advert may close at any time. We would encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Please note we are looking for someone to join the team as soon as possible, but we are also happy to accommodate a reasonable notice period for the right candidate.

Salary

The salary for this opportunity is c.£70,000, depending on how your skills and experience align to the role, plus a generous bonus scheme and benefits.

Hybrid working

While our offices across the UK are places to connect, collaborate and celebrate with colleagues, we recognise that flexibility around where you work is just as important. For this role we expect that you will work from our site in Frating, Colchester 2 days per week (typically Tuesday & Wednesday or Thursday) with the willingness to travel to our Embassy Gardens, London office on occasion.

The recruitment process: You can read about our recruitment process at https://www.penguinrandomhousecareers.co.uk/how-we-hire/

As a Disability Confident Committed organisation, we're part of the offer an interview scheme. This is where disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role can opt in to get to the next recruitment stage. There may be some situations where volume of applicants means we can't take all eligible candidates to interview.

We encourage you to tell us about any reasonable adjustments you may need by emailing PRHCareersUK@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk. Remember, you only need to share what you are comfortable to for us to support your request.

Please note, we are not able to accept agency CVs for this role. Any CVs sent speculatively will not be eligible for a fee.

 Company: The Random House Group Limited | Job ID: 282229