Network IT Hardware Engineer

Position Summary

This position provides on-site technical support at NUWC Division Newport with a focus on hardware installation, network connectivity, mixed-OS system administration, and cybersecurity compliance in secure DoD environments. The role supports day-to-day operational readiness of government systems while maintaining strict adherence to security protocols, asset management procedures, and configuration control requirements. This employee will support the Marine Species Modeling Teams and a Navy Range program.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Install, configure, test, and maintain computer hardware, network peripherals, switches, and structured cabling within secure NUWC environments.
• Monitor and troubleshoot LAN connectivity, identify network bottlenecks, and coordinate with NUWC personnel for infrastructure impacts or escalations.
• Perform routine hardware lifecycle tasks including inventory updates, configuration documentation, diagnostics, system replacements, and secure equipment handling.
• Administer Windows and Ubuntu Linux systems, including user account management, Group Policy adjustments, SSH key configuration, system hardening, and patching.
• Execute regular vulnerability scans, STIG-driven remediation, port audits, and cybersecurity compliance tasks in accordance with NUWC/DoD guidelines.
• Implement and enforce Least Privilege principles, manage administrative access, and maintain auditable access control records.
• Configure, collect, and review system and security audit logs to identify unauthorized access attempts, configuration drift, or anomalous activity.
• Support SQL database backup jobs (daily, weekly, monthly) and assist with restoration dry-runs as required.
• Develop simple bash scripts and automation tools to streamline monitoring, logging, and system maintenance tasks.
• Maintain cross-platform file sharing and interoperability between Windows and Linux systems across supported NUWC projects.
• Provide direct technical support to the project, ensuring systems, sensors, or analysis workstations remain operational and compliant.
• Prepare technical documentation, update configuration baselines, and support reporting requirements associated with cybersecurity audits and system reviews.
• Interact with NUWC customers, government leads, and internal project managers in a professional and timely manner.
• Perform other related duties, tasks, and responsibilities as required to support project and organizational needs.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related discipline with 3-5 years of relevant experience.
  • OR Associate's degree in a related field with 5-7 years of relevant technical experience.
• Experience supporting hardware, networks, and mixed Windows/Linux environments in a government, defense, or regulated setting.
• Hands-on experience with Windows and Ubuntu Linux system administration.
• Familiarity with DoD cybersecurity practices, patching requirements, and configuration management.
• Must meet eligibility requirements to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Prior experience supporting NUWC or NAVSEA activities.
• CompTIA A+ certification preferred.
• CompTIA Security+ (or higher, e.g., CySA+, CASP+) preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field with 10 years of hands-on experience in the field or a closely related technical discipline. (From your earlier request)
• Prior military experience in an IT, communications, electronics, or cybersecurity specialty is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with RMF/ATO processes, STIG implementation, ACAS/HBSS tools.
• Experience with SQL database backups or administration.
• Existing active DoD Secret clearance.

Competencies

• Knowledge of foundational IT troubleshooting principles consistent with CompTIA A+ domains.
• Understanding of DoD cybersecurity principles aligned with Security+ certification standards.
• Ability to apply secure configuration practices, access control principles, and incident reporting requirements within a DoD environment.
• Strong adherence to documentation, configuration management, and compliance-driven workflows.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
• Ability to follow strict configuration management and cybersecurity protocols.
• Attention to detail and accurate documentation habits.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced government environment.
• Proficiency with Windows, Linux, and command-line tools.
• Strong communication skills and professionalism with government customers.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

• Must comply with all NUWC base access, training, and cybersecurity requirements.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance Requirement

• This position requires the ability to obtain and/or maintain a DoD Security Clearance and required access to all worksite locations. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and throughout employment.

Other Duties:

Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Supervisory Responsibility:

None.

Work Environment:

This position operates in a secure government facility environment. The role involves routine use of computers, secure systems, and standard office/IT equipment. Work is performed on-site at NUWC Division Newport for more than 50% of scheduled hours.

Physical Demands:

Must be able to lift and move up to 50 lbs of computer equipment, crawl under desks and through cabling areas as needed, and perform routine hardware installation tasks.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This is a full-time position. The typical workday is eight hours in length. Work hours must align with NUWC's on-site access schedule and contract requirements. Flexibility in schedule may be permitted with supervisor approval. Attendance at required on-site meetings is expected, and the employee must account for the full number of hours per pay period necessary to maintain full-time status.

Telework:

• No regular telework is allowed for this position.

Travel:

• Ability to travel CONUS; potential to travel OCONUS.
• Up to 5% CONUS travel may be required.

Benefits and Additional Compensation:

KMS offers a competitive benefits packaging including medical, dental and vision insurances, flexible spending account, PTO, paid holidays, military leave, bereavement leave, 401k / retirement savings plan, professional development and tuition reimbursement, basic and voluntary life insurance / AD&D, short-term and long-term disability, voluntary AFLAC supplemental insurance products and employee assistance plan (EAP) program. Additionally, KMS offers employee referral bonuses and a discretionary annual bonus.

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