Systems Engineer

Ardent Principles, Inc.

$90K — $130K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph certification required.
  • Experience deploying, operating, and maintaining AWS cloud services.
  • Strong proficiency in Infrastructure as Code tools, especially AWS CloudFormation and Terraform.
  • Familiarity with containerization technologies such as Docker and Podman.
  • Proficient scripting skills in Bash and Python needed.
  • Experience with database management using PostgreSQL and MySQL.

Responsibilities

  • Deploy and sustain high-availability web services in the AWS cloud environment.
  • Implement and manage CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins.
  • Utilize Infrastructure as Code methodologies for efficient deployment.
  • Integrate diverse software systems including AWS and open-source applications.
  • Monitor and optimize system performance using tools like Prometheus and CloudWatch.
  • Assist in the configuration and management of networking and security practices.

Benefits

  • Generous Paid Time Off for rest and personal pursuits.
  • Dedicated Training Budget for continuous learning and professional development.
  • 100% Employer-Covered Family Vision, Dental, and Health Insurance.
  • 401(k) Plan with a 6% Employer Match and 100% vesting from day one.
  • Spot Bonuses for exceptional performance and contributions.
  • 11 Paid Government Holidays to ensure time off with family and friends.
Full Job Description
Systems Engineer

Application Deadline: 25 June 2026

Department: Data Analysis and Technology Services

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: McLean, VA

Description

REQUIRED: Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph
LOCATION: Full-time onsite in McLean, VA

We're seeking a Systems Engineer who can deploy, operate, and sustain secure, high-availability services across AWS and other cloud environments. In this role, you'll work hands-on with Infrastructure as Code, build and manage CI/CD pipelines, and support containerized workloads using Docker or Podman.

Key Responsibilities

In this challenging yet rewarding role, you are an integral part of what brings our Company's mission to life. You must have the following required skills, certifications and demonstrated experience in and/or with:
  • Deploying, operating and maintaining web services within the Client's AWS cloud environment (and other cloud service providers).
  • Working with Infrastructure as code (IaC) technologies including AWS Cloud Formation.
  • Implementing and managing CI/CD pipelines with Jenkins.
  • Using Infrastructure as Code tools; Terraform and CloudFormation.
  • AWS services (to include EC2, S3, RDS, Lambda, VPC, IAM, and CloudWatch)
  • Containerization such as Docker and Podman.
  • Strong scripting proficiency: Bash and Python.
  • Database self-hosting including installation, configuration, backup/recovery, high availability, and performance tuning using PostgreSQL and MySQL.
  • Monitoring, logging, and alerting systems; Prometheus/Alertmanager and CloudWatch.
  • Integrating and deploying diverse software systems: AWS cloud services, open-source applications, COTS/GOTS products, and custom applications.
  • Networking, security, IAM policies, and AWS architecture best practices.
  • Using Git-based workflows, branching strategies, and version control best practices.


Highly Desired Qualifications

Other skills and demonstrated experiences that are highly desired but not mandatory to perform the work, include:
  • Deploying and managing data platform components: Apache Spark, Trino, Apache Ranger, Apache Iceberg, Apache Superset, or data catalogs.
  • Using Data lakehouse architectures and supporting infrastructure.Secrets management solutions such as AWS Secrets Manager or Parameter Store.
  • Disaster recovery, backup strategies, and continuity planning.
  • Using or familiarity with API gateways and modern microservices patterns.
  • Cost optimization practices in AWS.
  • Background deploying and supporting AI/ML workloads or model serving infrastructure.
  • Mentoring team members on DevOps and cloud best practices.
  • NoSQL databases such as DynamoDB or MongoDB, etc.
  • Additional monitoring tools such as Grafanaor ELK stack.
  • Integrating Sponsor's Enterprise services.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Linux Operating Systems
  • Agile/Scrum development methodologies in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.
  • Working effectively in high-performing, cross-functional teams with multiple concurrent projects.
  • Working directly with stakeholders to gather requirements, understand needs, and translate them into technical solutions with minimal oversight.
  • Self-directed work with a strong ownership mentality and commitment to code quality, testing, and documentation.
  • Context-switching between projects and systems as priorities demand.


What We Offer You
  • Highly Competitive Salary: Recognizing and rewarding your expertise and contributions.
  • Generous Paid Time Off: Providing ample time for rest, relaxation, and personal pursuits.
  • Dedicated Training Budget: Supporting continuous learning and professional development.
  • 100% Employer-Covered Family Vision, Dental, and Health Insurance: Ensuring comprehensive health coverage for you and your family.
  • 100% Employer-Covered Life and Disability Insurance: Offering financial security and peace of mind.
  • 401(k) Plan with a 6% Employer Match: Helping you plan and save for a secure retirement, with 100% vesting from day one.
  • 11 Paid Government Holidays: Observing national holidays to ensure time off with family and friends.
  • Spot Bonuses for Exceptional Performance: Rewarding outstanding contributions and achievements.

SCHEDULE:

This is a full-time position with consultants expected to be available and working onsite in McLean, VA during core hours.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of a team dedicated to driving positive change through technology. Apply now with our easy 3-minute, mobile-friendly initial application process. Your future starts here!

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