About ForterraAt Forterra, we are unleashing autonomy at scale to transform the battlefield. Our mission is to build the foundational platforms that enable an intelligent ecosystem to coordinate, adapt, and execute with speed and precision even in the uncertainty and disruption of modern conflict. In an era marked by rapid technological change and evolving threats, we design for flexibility, survivability, and operational dominance.Forterra delivers weapons, sensors, and battlefield effects through integrated autonomous networks reaching operational areas faster, safer, and without placing human lives at risk. Our systems operate with distributed control, dynamic routing, and real-time responsiveness, enabling sustained advantage across complex mission environments.
About the role
Forterra is seeking a skilled Linux Software Engineer to join our Edge Compute product team. This role requires a deep understanding of Linux system expertise as it relates to hardware integration, system troubleshooting, and commissioning hardware with Linux software. The candidate must be a self-starter, capable of proactively identifying and resolving system-level issues, documenting all findings and fixes, and effectively communicating with technical and non-technical stakeholders. If you have experience troubleshooting Linux-specific issues such as permission errors, hard drive setup, kernel logs (dmesg), and system logs (/var/log/), this role is for you.
Forterra is a fast-growing company at the early stages of growth. Consistent with this fast growth, members of our Legal team must be resourceful, creative, and eager to take ownership of complex matters.
What you'll do
Linux System Hardware Integration:
Configure hardware with Linux-based software, ensuring seamless integration. Hardware Commissioning/ProvisioningDevelop automated tools using Ansible, Bash, and Python for system configuration and deployment. Maintain system security by applying patches, monitoring logs, and implementing access controls. Ensure high availability and reliability of Linux infrastructure through proactive monitoring and maintenance. Develop and maintain documentation on system configurations, processes, and troubleshooting procedures.
System Troubleshooting & Issue Resolution:
Diagnose and resolve Linux-specific system issues such as permission errors, file system corruption, and disk failures. Troubleshoot hard drive setup, mounting issues, and performance degradation. Analyze and interpret system logs using dmesg, /var/log/, and other Linux diagnostic tools. Debug software and hardware-related problems using tools like gdb, network analysis tools, and log analyzers. Identify and address system performance bottlenecks to ensure smooth operation.
Networking and System Validation:
Configure and troubleshoot network devices, including wireless radios and network switches. Troubleshoot network-related issues, including connectivity, latency, and packet loss. Verify system readiness and conduct thorough validation of Linux deployments on hardware.
Collaboration and Communication:
Work closely with engineers, technicians, and cross-functional teams to define system requirements and troubleshoot issues. Clearly document troubleshooting steps, findings, and resolutions to ensure transparency and knowledge sharing. Communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders regarding system configurations, debugging steps, and issue resolution. Provide thorough documentation of system configurations, troubleshooting processes, and best practices for future improvements.
Minimum Qualifications
Degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, or demonstrable experience in a similar role. 3+ years of experience in a similar role Self-starter with the ability to take initiative and troubleshoot issues with minimal supervision. Strong troubleshooting skills with Linux-based systems, particularly in diagnosing permission errors, disk setup issues, networking and kernel logs. Experience commissioning hardware and deploying Linux-based software solutions. Proficiency in Linux system administration, including shell scripting, system configuration, networking, and file systems. Experience with hardware-related Linux troubleshooting, including reading dmesg logs and diagnosing /var/log/ system issues. Proficiency in scripting languages (Python, Bash) for automation and testing. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently. Experience with network protocols and technologies such as TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, and routing protocols.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with containerization tools like Docker for managing applications. Expertise in configuration management tools such as Ansible Experience troubleshooting network-related problems, including connectivity issues, latency, and packet loss. Knowledge of VPN configuration for secure network connections. Familiarity with compiling and configuring custom Linux distributions and kernel modules. Understanding of hardware integration, including BIOS/UEFI setup, disk partitioning, and Linux compatibility with various hardware architectures.
US Salary Range $110,000 - $145,000
Location
On-Site in Clarksburg, MD
The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on a variety of factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, training, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full-time, high-demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra's overall compensation package. In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full-time employees including:
Premium Healthcare Benefits: Three plan options, including an HSA-eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents. Basic Life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance plans 100% covered by Forterra, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a winter break in December.Competitive paid time off (PTO) offering 20 days accrued per year.A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption. A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your little heart desires. 401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after-tax deferral with company match up to 4%.
Your recruiter will be able to share more information about our salary and benefits offering during the hiring process.
CLEARANCE ELIGIBILITY - This position may require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances: click here.
Forterra is an equal-opportunity employer, providing and promoting equal employment opportunity in all personnel practices. Forterrans are unique, talented individuals who are united through a shared passion to deliver autonomous systems that enable national resilience and a robust supply chain.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any factor, including veteran and disability status, and criminal history, in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws.
Forterra is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.
To see Forterra's candidate data privacy policy, please visit Forterra Legal | Job Applicant Privacy Notice.
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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