From 1980 to 1989, Linder served as assistant director of the Human Services Program at the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College, while concurrently holding the rank of assistant professor in Human services at the college.
[1] In 2008, Linder challenged incumbent Republican State Senator Dominic Pileggi for his seat.
[2] On November 3, 2009, Linder was elected to an at-large seat on the Chester City Council on a ticket with Portia West.
[5] His election was part of a broader sea change in city politics, with Democrats ending Republican dominance over Chester government.
[6] Following his swearing-in, Linder announced his retirement from his teaching position, a move allowing him to focus on his duties as Mayor full-time.