Inspect and manage one-time "at" scheduled jobs from the shell. 16.11.2025 | reading time: 2 min Want to know which one-time jobs are queued on a Linux host? Use `atq` to list pending jobs, `at -c` to view a job's script, and `atrm` to remove an entry; this short guide shows how to view scheduled at jobs and what to watch for. Hands-on example Schedule a job and inspect it:\n\n```\n$ echo "echo Hello from at" | at now + 2 minutes\njob 7 at Tue Nov 18 12:34:00 2025\n$ atq\n7\t2025-11-18 12:34 a user\n$ at -c 7\n#!/bin/sh\n# environment\necho Hello from at\n```\n\nThis sequence demonstrates creating a one-time task, listing it with `atq`, and printing its contents with `at -c`. What to watch Inspect `/etc/at.allow` and `/etc/at.deny` to control who can queue jobs; ensure `atd` is running with `systemctl status atd`; remember jobs run with the submitting user's UID and a minimal environment, so prefer absolute paths or source profiles inside scripts; use `atrm` to cancel jobs and check mail for job output when debugging. Alternatives and scope For recurring schedules use `cron` or `systemd timers`, while `batch` schedules jobs when load is low; for complex workflows consider orchestration tools, but use `at` when you need a simple, single-run task executed later. Final note Inspecting one-time jobs is a small but essential admin task — master `at` and its tools to avoid surprises, and consider deepening your Linux skills with certifications like CompTIA Linux+ or LPIC-1; bitsandbytes.academy offers intensive exam preparation. Join Bits & Bytes Academy First class LINUX exam preparation. utilities processes scripting
