Architect, Information Technology

Introduction

Maryland Benefits (MD Benefits) is a dynamic, cloud-based platform. This enterprise-wide digital service allows organizations to build, test, host, operate, and integrate mission-driven applications, data, and emerging technologies. MD Benefits offers cloud-based Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) capabilities, a shared data architecture, and product development services, all developed by the State of Maryland to help multiple agencies deliver and manage health, human, and social service benefits and programs. On July 1, 2025, the operation of the MD THINK shared platform and statewide applications transitioned from the Department of Human Services (DHS) to the Department of Information Technology (DoIT).

***This is a contractual position, with limited benefits***

***All hires need to be eligible to work in the U.S., either as a U.S. Citizen or those who have a Permanent Resident or green card as the state of Maryland does not have the ability to sponsor employees***

***Applicants are required to submit an up-to-date and accurate resume.***

Main Purpose

We're looking for a Lead Linux Systems Architect/Engineer to join our Infra Engineering team. This is a critical role where you'll act as a multi-faceted Linux expert and the primary architect for our mission-critical Linux infrastructure. You'll be responsible for the full lifecycle management of our Linux servers and related systems, from design and deployment to security and performance optimization.

Position Duties

The responsibilities of an Architect, Information Technology Senior include, but are not limited to the following duties:

A key part of this position involves leading and managing our Identity and Access Management (IAM) and DNS infrastructure. You will be the go-to resource for ensuring the stability, scalability, and security of our enterprise-level systems, while also providing guidance to other members of the engineering team.

• Linux Systems Leadership: Lead the design, deployment, and management of our Linux server environment, ensuring it meets high standards for availability and performance.
• IAM & DNS Ownership: Serve as the primary owner for our IAM and DNS infrastructure, overseeing its architecture, implementation, and ongoing maintenance.
• Core Administration: Act as the subject matter expert for core OS administration, security hardening, and performance tuning.
• Automation & Efficiency: Drive system automation and create tools to streamline operations and improve team efficiency.
• Collaboration & Mentorship: Work closely with other engineering teams and mentor junior staff to promote knowledge sharing and skill development.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in computer science, information systems, engineering, business, or other related scientific or technical discipline. (Note: A Master's degree is preferred.)

General Experience:

• Extensive experience as a Linux expert and a proven track record as a principal architect.
• Deep expertise in designing, deploying, and managing complex, mission-critical Linux infrastructure.
• Advanced knowledge of core OS administration, system internals, and performance tuning.
• Strong background in security hardening and implementing best practices for Linux environments.
• Proficiency in system automation using tools such as Ansible, Puppet, or Chef.
• In-depth experience with IAM (Identity and Access Management) principles and technologies.
• Advanced skills in DNS administration and architecture.
• Exceptional problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with a history of mentoring technical teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven experience in a lead or principal role, with responsibility for the strategic direction and architecture of Linux-based systems.
• Hands-on experience with specific security tools and frameworks for Linux hardening (e.g., SELinux, AppArmor, CIS benchmarks).
• Expertise in managing and architecting complex DNS environments, including experience with technologies like BIND, PowerDNS, or Active Directory DNS.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage IAM solutions, including single sign-on (SSO), federation, and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
• Experience with large-scale deployment and configuration management of Linux servers in a virtualized or cloud-native environment (e.g., VMware, AWS, Azure, GCP).
• A history of developing and implementing monitoring and alerting solutions for system health and performance (e.g., Nagios, Prometheus, Grafana).
• Experience with scripting languages beyond basic shell scripting (e.g., Python, Ruby).

Salary : $120,000 - $180,000