Systems Engineer I

Systems Engineer I

Location: Chicago, IL 60607

Duration: 12 months (possibility of extension)

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM CST

Hours: 40 hours per week

Work Arrangement: Hybrid (Tuesday–Thursday onsite; Monday and Friday remote). Local travel required multiple times per week.

Compensation: $55–$59 per hour

Employment Type: W2 (not open to C2C, 1099, or visa sponsorship)

Role Overview

Our client is seeking a hands-on Systems Engineer I to support Linux server infrastructure, high-volume data ingestion, hardware troubleshooting, and technical field operations. This position combines systems administration, network monitoring, physical hardware management, and operational logistics to maintain the reliability of data collection systems and supporting infrastructure. The ideal candidate is a proactive, technically skilled professional comfortable working independently, troubleshooting hardware and software issues, and collaborating with remote engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Administer, maintain, and troubleshoot Linux-based servers, storage systems, network hardware, and data ingestion equipment.
• Travel to local operational sites multiple times per week to securely retrieve physical data drives and storage media.
• Load and stage storage devices into high-speed data ingestion racks, execute automated upload scripts, and verify successful data transfers.
• Perform remote infrastructure monitoring, system health checks, and initial troubleshooting across multiple operational locations.
• Provide hands-on technical support to remote engineering teams, including collecting system logs, executing diagnostic commands, replacing hardware components, and running test procedures.
• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot server components, network interfaces, and storage hardware.
• Support high-throughput data transfer operations while maintaining data security, accuracy, and operational reliability.
• Coordinate shipping and receiving activities involving server equipment, storage devices, replacement components, and other technical hardware.
• Maintain accurate inventory records for data drives, server components, spare parts, and technical assets.
• Process hardware returns and coordinate equipment shipments through FedEx, UPS, and freight carriers.
• Follow and improve Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) covering hardware maintenance, data handling, inventory management, and issue escalation.
• Communicate technical issues, troubleshooting results, and infrastructure updates to engineering and operations teams.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in Linux systems administration, IT infrastructure support, or technical field support.
• Working knowledge of Linux command-line operations, including Bash, SSH, systemd, and basic scripting.
• Practical experience installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting physical servers, storage devices, and network hardware.
• Understanding of TCP/IP networking, system connectivity, and infrastructure monitoring.
• Experience troubleshooting hardware issues, collecting diagnostic information, and supporting remote technical teams.
• Ability to manage hardware inventory, safely handle storage media, and coordinate shipping and receiving activities.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to follow technical procedures and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and communicate effectively with technical stakeholders.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for routine travel between local operational sites.
• Ability to lift and move server equipment and storage enclosures weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Must reside in the greater Chicago area and be available for the required onsite schedule and local travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Systems Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Familiarity with high-speed networking technologies, including 100GbE interfaces.
• Understanding of Baseboard Management Controllers (BMC) and Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI).
• Experience configuring and troubleshooting RAID storage arrays.
• Experience supporting high-volume data ingestion, storage infrastructure, or automated data transfer processes.
• Familiarity with remote infrastructure management, hardware monitoring tools, and equipment replacement procedures.