DevOps Engineer I (Active Secret Clearance Required) with Security Clearance
The DevOps Engineer I supports federal contracts by managing cloud and on-premises infrastructure with a focus on security monitoring, auditing, and automation. This role involves troubleshooting databases, maintaining CI/CD pipelines using Kubernetes and cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, and ensuring compliance with security standards such as NIST 800-53. The position requires collaboration with clients and technical teams to enhance system stability and security, with an emphasis on continuous learning and certification attainment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Information Technology (IT).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking a DevOps Engineer I to support federal cloud and infrastructure projects. This entry-level to early-career role works with engineering teams to deploy, monitor, secure, and automate cloud-native systems.
- Troubleshoot and maintain MySQL (MariaDB) and PostgreSQL databases (AWS RDS/Aurora or cloud-native Postgres).
- Work across cloud platforms with a focus on AWS and Azure.
- Ensure software updates and deployments are applied consistently and safely.
- Use Git for source control and maintain Infrastructure as Code (IaC).
- Develop and maintain observability and monitoring (metrics, logging, actionable alerts).
- Automate operational tasks using tools like Terraform, Kubernetes, ArgoCD, Jenkins, and Git.
- Build and operate Kubernetes-based CI/CD pipelines and container deployments.
- Advise development teams on secure, reliable application lifecycle practices.
- Apply security best practices and support implementation of NIST 800-53 controls in cloud environments.
- Integrate traditional deployments with serverless and low-code platforms where required.
Location & Travel
- Primary work location: Herndon, VA. Candidates should be located within a commutable distance to Herndon.
- Travel: Approximately 25% travel to contract locations within the DMV region may be required.
- Work type: Full-time, primarily on-site with potential hybrid/telework arrangements as defined by the contract.
Clearance Requirement
- Active Secret security clearance required. Any clearance requirements are established by the government contract.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements (one of the following):
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or
- 4+ years of active military duty, or
- 5+ years of relevant technical or analytical experience.
Technical skills and experience:
- Entry-level cloud and Kubernetes experience; awareness of Linux and Kubernetes administration.
- Familiarity with AWS services including EKS, advanced networking, Organizations, and Control Tower.
- Basic programming/scripting experience (JavaScript/TypeScript, Bash, or similar).
- Understanding of networking fundamentals in cloud and datacenter environments.
- Foundational knowledge of DevSecOps methodologies and secure system operation.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Willingness and ability to obtain AWS associate-level certification and a Kubernetes certification (CKAD or CKA) within 12 months.
Preferred / Nice-to-Have
- Familiarity with Agile project management fundamentals.
- Experience with AWS Transit Gateway, Fortinet products, or advanced networking tools.
- Certifications or experience with additional cloud platforms (GCP, Azure) or private platforms (OpenShift).
- Experience with Elasticsearch, Kibana, and Logstash.
- Familiarity with Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs).
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay range (provided by employer): $85,000 - $95,000 per year.
- Benefits: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), paid time off, and other voluntary benefits (as offered by Confidential Client).
Why Join
- Work on mission-focused federal projects that require secure, reliable cloud infrastructure.
- Join a team that values innovation, professional development, and supporting stakeholders across government missions.
- Opportunity for certification support and career growth in cloud and DevSecOps disciplines.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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