Systems and Platform Engineer

Leidos Holding$107K — $195K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field (experience may suffice for degree)
  • 5+ years in Platform Engineering or System Engineering
  • Strong expertise with Linux distributions (RHEL, Ubuntu, Oracle Linux, Rocky)
  • Proficient in administering and troubleshooting Kubernetes clusters
  • Hands-on experience with Docker containers and the software development lifecycle
  • Familiar with RESTful APIs for platform integration and automation
  • Meets DoD 8570.11-IAT Level II certification requirements (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA-Security)

Responsibilities

  • Design and maintain Kubernetes platforms for enterprise use
  • Develop and manage Infrastructure as Code using Terraform, Salt, or Ansible
  • Collaborate on designing secure, automated CI/CD pipelines
  • Troubleshoot complex issues across various system layers
  • Maintain documentation and support compliance with federal security standards

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on critical missions supporting national security
  • Collaborative environment promoting technical growth and challenges
  • Clear path for career advancement
  • Engagement in next-gen technology integration
  • Dynamic work culture that encourages innovation and disruption
Full Job Description
Leidos is looking for a highly skilled platform engineer with deep expertise in operating systems, hardware, GPU, and high-speed networking.  In this role, you will design, develop, and optimize Kubernetes clusters that power enterprise AI for the mission customers. This is a 100% on-site position. All work must be performed at the customer site in Bethesda at the Intelligence Community Campus. Responsibilities: - Kubernetes Cluster Engineering: Design, configure, and maintain enterprise Kubernetes platforms. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to define and optimize Kubernetes architecture, ensuring they meet performance, efficiency, and feature requirements. - Infrastructure as Code: Develop and manage Infrastructure as Code (IaC) using tools such as Terraform, Salt, Ansible, Bash, Python or similar frameworks. - Collaborate with development teams to design and implement secure, automated, and repeatable pipelines (e.g., GitLab CI/CD). - Troubleshot complex systems issues across cloud, network, and platform layers. - Compliance & Documentation: Maintain technical documentation, architectural specifications, and Linux best practices. Support ATO (Authority to Operate) and ensure compliance with federal security standards. You Bring - Bachelor's or higher degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. - 5+ years in Platform Engineering or System Engineering experience. - Strong expertise with Linux distributions. (RHEL, Ubuntu, Oracle Linux, and Rocky). - Experience administering Kubernetes clusters, including deploying, scaling, and maintaining containerized workloads. - Hands-on experience creating, managing, and troubleshooting Docker containers and container images throughout the software development lifecycle. - Experience with Kubernetes cluster management and AI/ML workflow orchestration (Argo, Airflow, and Kubeflow). - Strong track record with consuming, and troubleshooting RESTful APIs for platform integration and automation. - Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to collaborate within a team. - Candidate must, at a minimum, meet DoD 8570.11- IAT Level II certification requirements (currently Security+ CE, CCNA-Security, GICSP, GSEC, or SSCP along with an appropriate computing environment (CE) certification). An IAT Level III certification would also be acceptable (CASP+, CCNP Security, CISA, CISSP, GCED, GCIH, CCSP). Preferred Qualifications - Experience in managing NVIDIA GPU data center platforms. (DGX, HGX, H200, H100, 200, B300, L40S). - Experience with NVIDIA enterprise tools such as Base Command Manager, Run:AI, Nvidia AI Enterprise. - Knowledge of enterprise server components (storage/network controllers, HBA, SSDs). - Familiarity with GPU virtualization and cloud computing. - Experience developing and deploying infrastructure in AWS. - Knowledge of distributed resource scheduling systems. (Slurm , LSF, Open MPI,etc.) Clearance - Active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph required OR active TS/SCI and willingness to obtain and maintain a Poly. - US Citizenship is required due to the nature of the government contracts we support. What You’ll Gain At Leidos, your work directly supports some of the most critical missions in the intelligence community. You'll be part of a high-performing, collaborative environment where your contributions shape national security operations. Whether optimizing secure networks, refining system baselines, or integrating next-generation technologies, you’ll find meaningful work, continuous technical challenges, and a clear path for advancement. At Leidos, we don’t want someone who "fits the mold"—we want someone who melts it down and builds something better. This is a role for the restless, the over-caffeinated, the ones who ask, “What’s next?” before the dust settles on “what’s now.” If you’re already scheming step 20 while everyone else is still debating step 2… good. You’ll fit right in. If you’re looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We’re not hiring followers. We’re recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We’re already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares. Original Posting: July 23, 2026 Pay Range: Pay Range $107,900.00 - $195,050.00 The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

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Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

Innovation and Professional Growth

At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

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For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

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Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

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Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

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