Optimal Lead Site Reliability Engineer at Optimal responsible for overseeing production systems administration and building the systems administration function. Hands-on role managing Linux and network administration and automating infrastructure.
Responsibilities
Own how production runs across colocation and the cloud: deployment, capacity, and failover
Build and lead the systems administration function: mentor existing staff, set how the function works, and hire as we grow
Set and publish the engineering standards and strategy for how we run production
Hands-on Linux and network administration; automate routine work through Infrastructure as Code
Manage vendors and service agreements
Qualification
Strong scripting and automation skillsExperience using AI toolsThe ability to bring structureStrong communicationExperience at a start-upFamiliarity with any of$150
Required
Strong scripting and automation skills.
Strong hands-on Linux and network administration.
Expertise with Infrastructure as Code (we are open on which tools).
Experience using AI tools, ideally Claude Code.
A track record owning production support and incident response.
Experience managing and developing technical staff.
The ability to bring structure, standards, and strategy to a function as it grows and matures.
Strong communication; effective with senior stakeholders and a small team.
Preferred
Experience at a start-up, or building a new line or function inside a larger firm; comfortable under resource constraints and automation-first by instinct.
Experience in real-time critical systems.
Familiarity with any of: FIX Protocol, PostgreSQL, middleware (ideally AERON), observability and monitoring tooling.Microsoft Azure, including Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD).Vendor management.
$150,000—$250,000 USD
Optimal is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
