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Jobs looking for Linux experience are generally looking for people who can maintain networks or servers. If you know how to do that (LAMP, Samba, etc.) on Ubuntu, you “know” Linux. If all you know how to do is set up Ubuntu desktop and Evolution and Firefox, then you don’t know Linux.

Since you are questioning about being able to use Linux in the enterprise or professional environment I suggest you use one of the “big three” (Debian, SUSE, Red Hat).

In the enterprise environment, Red Hat Enterprise Linux and SUSE Enterprise Linux are the two big ones, Debian being the base for many “desktop workstations”.

I personally do not like ubuntu (and krapbuntu) and I do not suggest you use them. and to learn “Linux” (which is actually the kernel name, it’s called GNU/Linux), I suggest you use a Distro based on the either RHEL or SEL. I would use either openSUSE (based on SEL) or CentOS (based on RHEL), and unlike the enterprise versions, are free.

To “know Linux” you should learn basic folder navigation and file manipulation through the shell (aka terminal). You will also need to know samba and other server options. (basically insert what John said here)

Linux is by far superior in the enterprise environment as in addition to greater security, stability, and speed, you can easily customize the linux distro how you want, then, with a simple GUI create an install image that can be quickly deployed on all of your machines.

My personal favorite is openSUSE as it functions great as both a desktop installation and boasts a phenomenal GUI control center where a plethora of server and security options (such as app armor GUI) at your fingertips.