Principal Network/ Systems Engineer
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
The Principal Network/ Systems Engineer is responsible for the senior-level engineering execution of complex migrations, high-stakes troubleshooting, and the hands-on integration of disparate technologies. This role is who the customer calls when a problem is too complex for the Tier III staff.
Primary Responsibilities:
Complex Systems Integration:
- Lead the hands-on configuration and integration of cross-functional technologies, such as linking specialized contract management software with secure cloud storage and identity-based access controls.
Advanced Network/Systems Troubleshooting :
- Act as the "Lead Investigator" for enterprise-wide outages or performance degradation. This involves deep-packet analysis, log correlation across multiple platforms (Windows/Linux/Cisco), and kernel-level debugging.
Implementation of Emerging Tech:
- Execute the deployment of advanced security tools, such as Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents or Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) clients, across a globally distributed workforce.
Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) Development:
- Build and maintain automated deployment scripts using tools like Terraform, Ansible, or Puppet to ensure that server and network configurations are identical and "drift-free" across all the customer sites.
Performance Engineering:
- Conduct stress tests and load balancing optimizations on the agency's internal networks and server clusters to ensure they can handle high-volume data bursts during peak audit cycles.
Requirements
-
Configuration Management
-
Patch Management
-
Asset Management
-
Enterprise Software License Compliance
-
Network and Systems, + Most roles require at least a Secret clearance, with some requiring Top Secret (TS/SCI) depending on the sensitivity of the systems.
Education:
- Bachelor's or master's degree in a technical field (Computer Science, Engineering, etc.).
Certifications (DoD 8570/8140):
-
IAT Level III: Mandatory (e.g., CASP+, CISSP, or CCNP Security).
-
Computing Environment (CE): Must hold high-level vendor certifications such as Cisco CCNP/CCIE or Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert.
Experience:
- 12-15+ years in IT infrastructure, with a proven track record of "saving the day" in high-pressure federal or defense environments.
Benefits & conditions
We offer competitive compensation and an extraordinary benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance, 401K with company matching, flexible spending accounts, paid holidays, three weeks paid time off, and more.