Principal Platform Engineer

Position Summary

You will work on a Kubernetes platform that enables secure deployment of container-based capabilities supporting cyber operations for US Cyber Command. The platform provides a common integration layer for mission applications across multiple environments, including on-premises vSphere, AWS, and air-gapped Azure.

Role Expectations

Build, configure, and operate Kubernetes clusters supporting production workloads across cloud and on-premises environments

Automate infrastructure provisioning using infrastructure-as-code practices

Configure and deploy baseline platform services via GitOps

Support CI/CD and DevSecOps pipelines used by application and data teams

Implement monitoring, logging, and alerting for platform services

Ensure platform security, availability, and performance

Collaborate with security teams to support RMF and security requirements

Troubleshoot infrastructure and platform issues across distributed environments

Contract Specific Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience

5+ years of experience in platform, infrastructure, or DevOps engineering (additional experience expected for Principal level)

Hands-on experience operating Kubernetes in production

Experience with Docker and container technologies

Highly proficient in a Linux/Unix terminal — candidates should be "keyboard-first" and comfortable with remote system management and complex troubleshooting without a GUI

Experience with infrastructure automation (Terraform, Ansible, or similar)

Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and Git-based workflows

TS/SCI clearance preferred; must be eligible to obtain TS/SCI with CI Poly within 6 months of hire

U.S. citizenship required

Must reside in the Fort Meade MD area or be willing to relocate prior to start

Salary Range: $93,000 - $285,000