System Engineer, Level 5

Independent Software; Fort Meade (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Generous benefits

Ongoing training and career development

Work-life balance

Job summary

Independent Software is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer in Fort Meade, MD. This role involves leading the design and enhancement of secure IT systems that support mission-critical operations. Key responsibilities include designing secure networks, translating requirements into scalable architectures, and collaborating with teams to ensure compliance. Candidates must have significant experience in systems engineering, hold an active TS SCI clearance, and possess DoD 8570 certifications. Join a culture of collaboration and innovation at Independent Software.

Qualifications

• Strong experience with Linux and Windows system administration.
• Advanced troubleshooting across enterprise IT environments.
• Knowledge of networking, storage, and system security practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and enhancement of secure IT systems.
• Drive system architecture and collaborate with engineering teams.
• Ensure systems are secure, compliant, and supportable.

Skills

Systems engineering across enterprise IT environments

Designing secure wireless networks

Translating requirements into scalable architectures

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor's degree (10 years of experience)

Associate's degree (15 years of experience)

Tools

Linux

Windows

Job description

What You Will Do:

As a Senior Systems Engineer at Independent Software, you will lead the design, analysis, and enhancement of secure, scalable IT systems supporting mission-critical operations. You will work across the full system lifecycle, translating mission needs into technical solutions while ensuring systems are secure, compliant, and supportable. In this role, you will drive system architecture, support security certification efforts, and collaborate with engineering teams to modernize and optimize enterprise environments. This position requires strong experience in secure wireless technologies and infrastructure design.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strong experience in systems engineering across enterprise IT environment
• Experience designing and supporting secure wireless (WiFi) networks
• Ability to translate requirements into scalable, secure system architectures
• Knowledge of enterprise infrastructure, networking protocols, and system integration
• Familiarity with IT service frameworks such as ITIL or similar
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to lead technical efforts
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong experience with Linux and Windows system administration
• Advanced troubleshooting across enterprise IT environments
• Experience with IT Service Management (ITSM) processes
• Knowledge of networking, storage, and system security practices
• Familiarity with patching, vulnerability management, and compliance requirements
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, classified environment

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree with at least ten (10) years of relevant experience
• Associate’s degree with at least fifteen (15) years of relevant experience

Certifications:

• MUST hold an active DoD 8570 / 8140 IASAE Level II certification
• Computing Environment (CE) Certification required (Microsoft or Linux-based)
• OS Certification required

Clearance Requirement:

• Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software:

At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive. When you join us, you will:

• Support critical national security missions that matter
• Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
• Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
• Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.

Apply today.

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.