Systems Integration Engineer
The Systems Integration Engineer at Confidential Client is responsible for integrating hardware components and software systems to support national defense initiatives. The role involves provisioning servers, configuring virtual environments, and managing network routing and switching, requiring active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph and varying levels of experience from entry to senior.
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, Defense & Government IT Services.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking Systems Integration Engineers to join teams building, provisioning, and integrating hardware and software systems that support national defense and government missions. You will work across hardware assembly, server provisioning, virtualization, networking, and automation to ensure systems are deployed and operating to specification.
- Integrate hardware components into rack-mount and non-standard enclosures (servers, network devices, timing devices, storage, PDUs).
- Provision and configure servers (OS install, RAID, drivers, firmware) per system and application requirements.
- Automate build and configuration tasks using Ansible or similar configuration management tools.
- Deploy and manage virtualized environments (ESXi, vSphere, Kubernetes clusters, containers).
- Configure network routing, switching, IP space management, and traffic segmentation.
- Work with cross-functional teams (software engineers, network engineers, test engineers) to validate integrated systems.
- Troubleshoot hardware, OS, virtualization, and network issues during integration and test phases.
- Document configuration, cabling, and operational procedures; maintain clear change and release records.
Minimum Qualifications
- Active U.S. security clearance: TS/SCI with Polygraph required.
- Demonstrated hands-on experience with at least two of the following areas: server provisioning, virtualization (ESXi/KVM), container orchestration (Kubernetes), network routing/switching, Ansible or similar automation.
- Strong understanding of Linux and Windows server administration.
- Ability to read mechanical and electrical diagrams and follow rack/cable installation best practices.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills and ability to work in cross-functional teams.
Experience Levels (openings at multiple seniorities)
Confidential Client is hiring multiple levels — entry through senior. Education and experience expectations:
- Entry Level — Bachelor’s in a technical field preferred; minimal hands-on experience. Significant relevant experience (5+ years) may substitute for degree.
- Basic Level — Bachelor’s in a technical field and ~5 years relevant experience.
- Mid Level — Bachelor’s in a technical field and ~10 years relevant experience.
- Senior Level — Bachelor’s in a technical field and ~15 years relevant experience.
Preferred / Nice-to-Have Skills
- Ansible or other configuration management (Puppet, Chef).
- VMware ESXi/vSphere administration and VM lifecycle management.
- Kubernetes (cluster setup, YAML manifests, troubleshooting).
- Networking: VLANs, routing protocols, switch configuration, IP address management.
- Experience with rack integration standards, cable management, and power distribution planning.
- Familiarity with secure development and system hardening practices for government environments.
Compensation & Location
- Estimated salary (source): $132,904 per year (estimated).
- Location: Annapolis Junction, MD — on-site presence required due to clearance and program needs.
Why Join (what we offer)
- Work on mission-critical systems supporting national defense.
- Multilevel roles offer career progression and a range of technical challenges.
- Collaborative environment with experienced engineers across hardware, software, and network domains.
- Opportunity to expand skills in automation, virtualization, and secure systems engineering.
Clearance & Eligibility
- Active TS/SCI with Polygraph is required. Candidates must be U.S. persons and able to maintain required security eligibility.
- Reasonable accommodations are available during the hiring process upon request.
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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