[Nil]

One thing that I always here from others is the importance of learning the unix operating system and being proficient with bash. I've always postponed my learning in this area, though.

Has anyone here been impacted professionally from understanding the operating system? Is there more value to it than simply server and network management?

It's part of my job currently. I work in a Linux shop.

So, in your case I'm assuming your understanding of Linux opened that job opportunity to you that otherwise you would have no shot with. I guess that's as good as enough reason to learn anything. A response from someone who doesn't work for a company specializing in Linux but finds use in knowing it would be a nice perspective to hear.