Senior Platform Engineer

Clarity Innovations; Herndon (VA); On-site; USD 94,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

Clarity Innovations is seeking a mission-driven Platform Engineer to deliver the next evolution of U.S. Government cyber operations.

This role builds the critical infrastructure for a next-generation distributed cyber network operations platform, designing, deploying, and scaling secure systems to support national security missions. You will work across on-premises and cloud-native environments, integrating hardware, automation, and DevSecOps practices to ensure reliability, performance, and

Qualifications

• 5-10+ years of systems engineering or enterprise infrastructure experience.
• Active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph eligibility.
• Linux administration (Ubuntu, RHEL) and Windows/virtualized platforms familiarity.
• Hands-on with configuration management tools (Ansible, PowerShell, Bash).
• CCNA certification within 90 days.
• DevSecOps, GitOps, containerization (Docker/Podman) and IaC tools.

Responsibilities

• Drive end-to-end systems engineering across secure infrastructure stacks (on-prem & cloud).
• Work at the intersection of hardware integration, infrastructure orchestration, and bespoke operational tools.
• Design and deploy scalable infrastructure for distributed cyber operations.
• Ensure reliability, performance, and security of all platform environments per mission standards.

Skills

Linux administration

DevSecOps

Containerization

Network routing & integration

Education

Technical degree or related field (CS/Engineering)

CCNA certification

Tools

Ansible

PowerShell

Bash

Docker

Podman

Terraform

Pulumi

Crossplane

Job description

Clarity Innovations is a trusted national security partner, dedicated to safeguarding our nation’s interests and delivering innovative solutions that empower the Intelligence Community (IC) and Department of Defense (DoD) to transform data into actionable intelligence, ensuring mission success in an evolving world.

Our mission-first software and data engineering platform modernizes data operations, utilizing advanced workflows, CI/CD, and secure DevSecOps practices. We focus on challenges in Information Warfare, Cyber Operations, Operational Security, and Data Structuring, enabling end-to-end solutions that drive operational impact.

We are committed to delivering cutting-edge tools and capabilities that address the most complex national security challenges, empowering our partners to stay ahead of emerging threats and ensuring the success of their critical missions. At Clarity, we are people-focused and set on being a destination employer for top talent, offering an environment where innovation thrives, careers grow, and individuals are valued. Join us as we continue to lead innovation and tackle the most pressing challenges in national security.

Position Overview

We are seeking a mission-driven Platform Engineer to deliver the next evolution of U.S. Government cyber operations. This is a purpose-filled position for those seeking to make a meaningful impact. Join an elite team developing the critical infrastructure for a next-generation, distributed cyber network operations platform. Our mission is to design, deploy, and scale offensive capabilities that fundamentally change how the U.S. Government conducts operations in cyberspace. Your contributions will directly shape the operational edge of the nation’s most advanced missions.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive end-to-end systems engineering efforts across modern, secure, and flexible infrastructure stacks, spanning on-premises deployments and cloud-native platforms.
• Work at the intersection of hardware integration, infrastructure orchestration, secure systems configuration, and bespoke operational tools.
• Design and deploy scalable infrastructure to support distributed cyber operations.
• Ensure the reliability, performance, and rigorous security of all platform environments in accordance with mission standards.

Required Qualifications

• 5-10+ years of experience in systems engineering with a foundation in enterprise infrastructure, cybersecurity, or equivalent (or a related technical degree).
• Active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph eligibility.
• Deep mastery of Linux administration (Ubuntu, RHEL) and familiarity with Windows/virtualized platforms.
• Expertise in secure routing protocols and network integration (BGP, OSPF, VPNs) and hands‑on experience with configuration management tools like Ansible, PowerShell, or Bash.
• Current CCNA certification (or ability to obtain one within 90 days).
• Proficiency in modern DevSecOps, GitOps, and containerization (Docker, Podman) and Infrastructure as Code utilities (Crossplane, Pulumi, Terraform).

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with SDN, network virtualization, and automation in classified environments.
• Exposure to DoD/federal cybersecurity frameworks such as RMF and NIST 800-53.
• Familiarity with the Cyber Operations Domain and advanced threat detection.
• Experience writing automated tests for infrastructure components.
• Willingness to travel (CONUS/OCONUS) up to 25% annually for mission support, and comfortable working in SAPF/SCIF environments.
• Azure experience and/or relevant cloud certifications.

$93,600 - $159,100 USD

Pay Range

The posted pay range reflects the national salary range for this position and is provided to give candidates a general understanding of the compensation opportunity. The actual salary offered will be determined based on the requirements of the position and a variety of job-related factors, which may include geographic location, applicable Federal Government contract labor categories and wage rates, relevant experience, skills and competencies, education, certifications, and the scope and responsibilities of the role.

Because this position may be performed in multiple locations and may be subject to different contract requirements, the salary ultimately offered may vary based on the applicable location and contract. The posted range is not a guarantee of a specific starting salary or an indication that an offer will be made at any particular point within the range.

Total Rewards

In addition to competitive base pay, Clarity provides a Total Rewards package designed to attract and retain exceptional professionals committed to excellence. Our benefits reflect the value we place on skilled individuals who drive our impact in critical digital missions.

At Clarity, a career means joining a high-performing team advancing vital work in the digital landscape. We encourage you to consider the total value of joining us—competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and resources that support your growth and impact.

Our Total Rewards package includes performance-based bonuses, extensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan with company match, substantial paid time off and holidays, flexible work arrangements where possible, and a range of income protection benefits. We are committed to supporting your well‑being, professional growth, and ability to contribute to essential digital missions.

We are an equal opportunity 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.