Linux System Security Engineer

Quantum Leap; Leesburg (VA); On-site; USD 190,000 - 205,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Educational assistance

Premium subsidy

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Vacation days

Sick leave

Holidays

Job summary

Quantum Leap is seeking a mid- to senior-level Linux System Security Engineer in Leesburg, VA to design and harden on-premises infrastructure and secure systems against threats for government-focused clients.

The role requires strong Linux, networking, and scripting skills (Shell/Python), plus hands-on experience with Ansible, Git, Elasticsearch/OpenSearch, and Wazuh. U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a security clearance are essential.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field with 10+ years in security engineering or Linux administration.
• 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 (Shell, Python) to develop security tools and automate monitoring.
• Strong networking knowledge (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN) and security implications.
• Experience with Ansible, playbooks and roles.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Willing to work full-time in the Leesburg, VA office.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and maintain security practices across on-premises infrastructure.
• Regularly audit systems for vulnerabilities and apply patches.
• Automate security tasks using Ansible and scripts.
• Perform system hardening including kernel tuning and secure config.
• Stay current on security threats and trends.
• Collaborate with engineers and security professionals to mitigate risks.

Skills

Linux systems

Networking

Shell scripting

Python scripting

Open-source tools

Wazuh

Ansible

Security fundamentals

Communication

U.S. citizenship

Security clearance

Education

B.S. in Computer Science/Engineering

Tools

Git

Elasticsearch/OpenSearch

Wazuh

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 a minimum of 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.

Salary Range

$190,000 - $205,000. Salary ranges reflect compensation for qualified candidates across a range of experience levels and are flexible; actual salary will be determined based on demonstrated skills, experience, and performance.

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

HQ

940 Sycolin Rd, Suite 110
Leesburg, VA 20175
United States