Linux System Security Engineer

Quantum Leap Research; Leesburg (VA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

6% 401(k) company match

Educational assistance up to $7,000 per year

100% insurance premium subsidy for employees

75% for dependents

3 weeks’ vacation

2 weeks sick leave

11 holidays

Job summary

Quantum Leap Research in Leesburg, Virginia, is seeking a highly skilled Linux System Security Engineer to enhance security practices across their infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of relevant experience in Linux and security with a strong foundation in networking protocols. They will be responsible for auditing systems, automating tasks with Ansible, and collaborating with engineering teams to mitigate risks. This position offers competitive pay and comprehensive benefits including a 401(k) match and educational assistance.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in Security Engineering or Linux Systems Administration.
• Strong understanding of security principles and best practices.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government-issued security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and maintain security practices across infrastructure.
• Regularly audit systems for security vulnerabilities and propose mitigations.
• Automate security tasks using configuration management tools like Ansible.
• Perform system hardening, including service management and secure configuration.

Skills

Linux

Networking

Security principles

Scripting (Shell, Python)

Ansible

Open-source tools (Git, Elasticsearch, Wazuh)

Education

B.S. in Computer Science or Computer Engineering

Tools

Ansible

BIND/Unbound/PowerDNS

VMWare/Virtual Box/Proxmox

Job description

Quantum Leap is the leading technology services company focused on providing operationally focused solutions for select clientele within the United States Government (USG). Quantum Leap was founded by a team of technologists and engineers to focus exclusively on advancing USG interests against the Nation’s threats in an age of Strategic (Great Power) Competition.

We have built a highly collaborative workforce dedicated to countering those threats in an environment designed for success. This an entrepreneurial, fast-growing company, where the right candidate can join and really make a difference.

We are seeking a highly skilled mid or senior level Linux System Security Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Linux and networking, as well as experience in securing the systems and devices.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and maintain security practices across our infrastructure, focusing heavily on on-premises systems.
• Regularly audit systems for security vulnerabilities, apply security patches, and provide recommendations to mitigate risks.
• Automate security tasks using configuration management tools like Ansible.
• Perform system hardening, including kernel tuning, service management, and the secure configuration of our infrastructure.
• Stay up-to-date on the latest security threats and trends.
• Work closely with other engineers and security professionals to ensure a shared understanding of security risks and mitigation strategies.

Qualifications

Required

• B.S. in field of technology (Computer Science, Computer Engineering, etc.) with 10+ years experience in relevant field (Security Engineer, Linux Systems Administrator or similar role).
• Strong understanding of security principles and best practices.
• Proven experience with Linux and open-source tools such as Git, Elasticsearch or OpenSearch, and Wazuh.
• Proficient in scripting languages (Shell, Python) to develop security tools, automate monitoring tasks, and enhance system defenses.
• Strong understanding of networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN, etc.) and security implications, including network segmentation, firewalls, and VPNs.
• Experience with Ansible, writing and maintaining playbooks and roles.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A passion for learning and staying up-to-date on the latest security trends.
• Able and willing to work full time in the Leesburg office.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government-issued security clearance; therefore, U.S. citizenship is required

Preferred

• Familiarity with DNS infrastructure and tools (BIND, Unbound, and/or PowerDNS)
• Experience with Fluent Bit or Fluentd for log collection, processing, and forwarding in distributed environments.
• Experience with Virtualization technologies (VMWare, Virtual Box, Proxmox)
• Experience with BSD

Compensation and Benefits

We seek the best-and-brightest professionals at all levels so offer highly competitive compensation and an excellent benefits package. Company-sponsored benefits include: 6% 401(k) company match with immediate vesting, educational assistance up to $7,000 per year, 100% insurance premium subsidy for employees (75% for dependents), Anthem medical, Guardian dental, life and disability coverage, 3 weeks’ vacation, 2 weeks sick leave, and 11 holidays.

Quantum Leap is an Equal Opportunity Employer