Introduction
This role is for the Army Edge Computing Capability (AECC) program, a mission-critical initiative to build and manage a globally distributed, Kubernetes-based hosting environment for the U.S. Army's next-generation enterprise and tactical applications.
As a Lead Architect, you will spearhead the design and implementation of a cutting-edge, cloud-native infrastructure. You will leverage a modern DevSecOps and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) framework to deliver a secure, automated, and resilient platform. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of the Army's application ecosystem as part of a forward-thinking managed service provider (MSP).
Your role and responsibilities
Position Duties:
• Develop and own the DevSecOps and automation framework supporting all AECC environments.
• Architect and maintain robust Infrastructure as Code (IaC) pipelines for automated provisioning, configuration management, and deployment.
• Drive continuous improvement by evaluating and recommending new tools, processes, and service offerings to enhance automation capabilities.
• Lead the automated installation, configuration, and lifecycle management of Kubernetes clusters, including complex CNI and CSI integrations.
• Serve as the subject matter expert for troubleshooting and performing root cause analysis on issues within Kubernetes, containerized applications, and automation frameworks.
• Harden all platform components according to DoD cybersecurity controls and industry best practices.
• Collaborate directly with government engineers and host customers to provide secure, automated application enclaves.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive system architecture diagrams, network topologies, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Champion automation concepts and benefits across the organization, mentoring others and documenting best practices.
Required education
Bachelor's Degree
Preferred education
None
Required technical and professional expertise
Required Skills:
• Senior-level expertise in Infrastructure as Code (IaC) environments, including automated network configuration, server deployment, and software provisioning.
• Extensive hands-on experience with tools like Terraform, Ansible, Vault, and GitLab.
• Deep knowledge of containerization (Docker) and container orchestration (Kubernetes).
Required Certifications:
• Required: DoD 8570.01-M IAT Level II certification (e.g., Security+).
• Required within 6 months of hire: An approved computing environment certification (e.g., Kubernetes, DevOps, or automation-related industry certification).
Clearance Required:
• Must hold a DoD Secret security clearance.
Preferred technical and professional experience
Desired Skills:
• Proven experience automating Kubernetes cluster deployments.
• Strong background in writing modular and reusable Ansible Playbooks (Roles).
• Working knowledge of DoD Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and/or industry hardening best practices.
• Exceptional troubleshooting skills across complex, distributed systems.
• Experience instantiating, running, and upgrading clusters in a fully disconnected environment.
Core Technology Stack
• Orchestration: Kubernetes, Red Hat OpenShift
• IaC & Config Management: Terraform, Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform
• GitOps: ArgoCD or FluxCD
• Secrets Management: Hashicorp Vault
OTHER RELEVANT JOB DETAILS
IBM offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program. Eligible employees may have access to:
- Healthcare benefits including medical & prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and mental health & well being
- Financial programs such as 401(k), cash balance pension plan, the IBM Employee Stock Purchase Plan, financial counseling, life insurance, short & long- term disability coverage, and opportunities for performance based salary incentive programs
- Generous paid time off including 12 holidays, minimum 56 hours sick time, 120 hours vacation, 12 weeks parental bonding leave in accordance with IBM Policy, and other Paid Care Leave programs. IBM also offers paid family leave benefits to eligible employees where required by applicable law
- Training and educational resources on our personalized, AI-driven learning platform where IBMers can grow skills and obtain industry-recognized certifications to achieve their career goals
- Diverse and inclusive employee resource groups, giving & volunteer opportunities, and discounts on retail products, services & experiences
We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable law.
This position was posted on the date cited in the key job details section and is anticipated to remain posted for 21 days from this date or less if not needed to fill the role.
US Citizenship Required.
The compensation range and benefits for this position are based on a full-time schedule for a full calendar year. The salary will vary depending on your job-related skills, experience and location. Pay increment and frequency of pay will be in accordance with employment classification and applicable laws. For part time roles, your compensation and benefits will be adjusted to reflect your hours. Benefits may be pro-rated for those who start working during the calendar year.
