Infrastructure Engineer - Cloud Native

Nightwing; Annapolis (MD); On-site; USD 99,000 - 206,000; Full time

Job summary

Nightwing is seeking an experienced Infrastructure Engineer to design, build, and maintain the backbone of our advanced systems infrastructure in Maryland. You will own planning, configuring, and sustaining scalable, secure operations in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities include deploying containerized environments with Kubernetes, Rancher, Proxmox; implementing virtualization with Citrix; and building automation with Python, Terraform, and Ansible to support DevSecOps.

Qualifications

• Bachelors in STEM or equivalent hands-on infra experience.
• 5+ years in infrastructure engineering or related roles.
• Proven Kubernetes cluster design and maintenance experience.
• Strong Linux and networking knowledge with performance optimization.
• Experience with DevSecOps, CI/CD, and version control (Git).
• Familiarity with Citrix virtualization environments.

Responsibilities

• Architect, deploy, and maintain containerized environments using Kubernetes, Proxmox, and Rancher.
• Design and implement scalable virtualization solutions using Citrix clients, enabling multi-user environments.
• Manage logging, monitoring, and observability systems (ELK Stack, Prometheus, Grafana) for real-time performance optimization.
• Plan and configure network software stacks that integrate microservices and distributed systems.
• Develop and maintain automation scripts using Python, Bash, or Terraform.
• Optimize infrastructure performance to support heavy workloads and minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with development and operations teams to integrate infrastructure solutions into agile deployment pipelines.
• Ensure compliance with robust security policies and DevSecOps workflows (Git, Ansible, CI/CD).
• Provide technical guidance for scalability, capacity planning, and risk mitigation in virtualized environments.

Skills

Kubernetes

Linux

Python

Bash

Terraform

CI/CD

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Tools

Proxmox

Rancher

Citrix

ELK Stack

Prometheus

Grafana

Ansible

Git

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Infrastructure Engineer

Location: Onsite - National Business Park, Maryland

Nightwing is seeking an experienced Infrastructure Engineer to design, build, and maintain the backbone of our advanced systems infrastructure. As a key member of our team, you'll take ownership of planning, configuring, and sustaining systems that enable scalable and efficient operations. From orchestrating container architectures like Kubernetes and Rancher, to implementing robust virtualization solutions, you will be instrumental in ensuring high availability, security, and adaptability across our network and software stack.

Ideal candidate is a highly skilled Infrastructure Engineer with deep expertise in containerization, virtualization, and automation. These individuals find maximum job satisfaction in being both a systems thinker and a hands‑on builder, capable of designing, deploying, and optimizing scalable, secure, and resilient infrastructure within complex environments. Candidate will work in a fast‑paced, mission‑critical settings and bring a strong foundation in Linux systems, networking, and distributed architectures, combined with modern DevSecOps practices.

Responsibilities

• Architect, deploy, and maintain containerized environments using technologies such as Kubernetes, Proxmox, and Rancher.
• Design and implement scalable virtualization solutions using Citrix clients, enabling seamless system operations and multi‑user environments.
• Manage logging, monitoring, and observability systems, such as the ELK stack (ElasticSearch, Logstash, Kibana), for real‑time performance optimization and troubleshooting.
• Plan and configure network software stacks that integrate microservices and distributed systems for secure and scalable operations.
• Develop and maintain automation scripts using languages like Python, Bash, or Terraform for configuration management and provisioning.
• Optimize infrastructure performance to support heavy workloads, improve fault tolerance, and minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with development and operations teams to integrate infrastructure solutions into agile deployment pipelines.
• Ensure compliance with robust security policies and practices, leveraging DevSecOps workflows and tools like Git, Ansible, and CI/CD systems.
• Provide technical guidance for infrastructure scalability, capacity planning, and risk mitigation in virtualized environments.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) or equivalent experience.
• At least 5 years of hands‑on experience in infrastructure engineering or related roles.
• Proven experience designing, deploying, and maintaining Kubernetes clusters and container orchestration systems.
• Solid understanding of virtualization technologies and protocols, including expertise in Citrix environments.
• Proficiency with monitoring and observability tools (e.g., ELK Stack, Prometheus, Grafana).
• Strong knowledge of Linux‑based systems and network administration, with the ability to optimize performance and troubleshoot issues.
• Hands‑on experience with infrastructure automation tools and writing scripts (e.g., Python, Bash, Terraform).
• Familiarity with DevSecOps practices, CI/CD workflows, and version control systems like Git.
• Ability to lead the planning and execution of scalable, virtualized systems while maintaining operational efficiency.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with Proxmox and Rancher for container and virtualization management.
• Familiarity with managing virtualization environments for multi‑user desktops and remote clients.
• Knowledge of distributed systems architecture and event‑driven frameworks.
• Strong understanding of networking protocols, firewalls, and security configurations.
• Previous experience designing infrastructure for high‑load systems or large‑scale environments.
• Certification in infrastructure‑related technologies or tools (e.g., Kubernetes Certified Administrator).

Why Join Us At Nightwing

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting‑edge technologies and tackle meaningful challenges that push the limits of scalability and reliability.
• Collaborative Teams: Join a group of skilled engineers who thrive on solving tough problems together and continuously sharing knowledge.
• Opportunities to Grow: Expand your skillset with access to enterprise‑grade tools and learn from industry experts.
• Mission‑Driven Impact: Build infrastructure that supports national security operations and real‑world success.

Security Clearance Required

TS/SCI clearance with polygraph (active)

The salary associated with this position $99,000-$206,000 is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.

Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.

Salary & Benefits

Text Constant The salary associated with this position ($77,000-$163,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.

Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.