Linux System Security Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

6% 401(k) match

Educational assistance up to $7,000/yr

Insurance premium subsidy

3 weeks vacation + 11 holidays

Job summary

Quantum Leap in Leesburg, VA is seeking a mid- to senior-level Linux System Security Engineer to design, implement, and maintain security across our on‑premises infrastructure. The role emphasizes strong Linux and networking skills, scripting, and the ability to implement robust security measures.

You will audit systems, apply patches, automate tasks with Ansible, and harden configurations while staying current with emerging threats.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related field; minimum 10 years in security-focused roles.
• Strong understanding of security principles and best practices.
• Proven Linux administration and security tooling experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain security practices across on-premises infrastructure.
• Audit systems for vulnerabilities, apply patches, mitigate risks.
• Automate security tasks using Ansible; develop security tooling.
• System hardening including kernel tuning and secure configurations.

Skills

Linux

Networking

Scripting

Ansible

Git

Elasticsearch/OpenSearch

Wazuh

Python

Shell

Security fundamentals

Communication

Teamwork

Education

B.S. in Computer Science/Engineering or related

Tools

Git

Elasticsearch/OpenSearch

Wazuh

Ansible

Fluent Bit/Fluentd

VMware/VirtualBox/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 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

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Talent

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HQ

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