Systems Architect

The Pennsylvania State University; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 81,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Systems Architect to join the Joint Mission Integration and Experimentation Division (JMIE) at ARL in Penn State. The role focuses on rapid development of warfighter capabilities in a multidomain environment and requires handling classified IT architectures.

On-site in San Diego, CA with project-dependent hybrid work. ARL emphasizes DoD partnerships and security clearances; salary ranges reflect senior responsibilities and security requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required, 8+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent).
• Experience with DoD classifications and security accreditation processes.
• Strong understanding of enterprise IT and data center operations.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, improve, and maintain data center and IT/Lab facility requirements (use-cases, floorplans, layouts, rack elevations).
• Develop IT system architecture for integration of multiple platforms, OSes, and applications across the classified enterprise.
• Document system specs, inputs/outputs, and parameters for hardware/software compatibility and security.
• Design, configure, and maintain network infrastructure: routers, switches, firewalls.
• Implement hardening requirements (DISA STIGs, SRGs).
• Identify, analyze, and resolve information security and program deficiencies.
• Troubleshoot and develop solutions to complex technical problems.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Observe all laws and regulations; operate safely on behalf of the Lab.
• May lead and guide lower-level staff; may represent organization to vendors.
• May present as primary technical contact on projects to outside vendors/customers.

Skills

Data center design

Enterprise IT assets

Classified DoD systems

Authentication (federated, MFA)

IPv4 networks & encryption

Kubernetes & VMware virtualization

Red Hat Enterprise Linux

Windows troubleshooting

TS/SCI clearance

SD-WAN networking

VDI administration

Hybrid-Cloud architectures (AWS)

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Dell servers

Cisco network architecture

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are searching for a highly motivated Systems Architect to join our Joint Mission Integration and Experimentation Division (JMIE) at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. JMIE specializes in rapid development of warfighter capabilities in an aggregated and integrated multidomain environment.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

• Design, configure, improve, and maintain Data Center and IT/Software Engineering Laboratory facility requirements such as use-cases, floorplans, layouts, diagrams, and rack elevations
• Develop and implement information technology system architecture for integration of multiple platforms, operating systems, and applications across the classified enterprise
• Determine and document systems specifications, input/output processes, and working parameters for hardware/software compatibility and maintenance of system security
• Design, configure, and maintain network infrastructure; including routers, switches, firewalls
• Implement hardening requirements on systems and devices such as DISA STIGs, SRGs, etc.
• Identify, analyze, and resolve information security and program support deficiencies
• Troubleshoot and develop solutions to complex technical problems
• Maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information
• Be responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Lab
• Be expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practice
• May function in a leadership role and provide direction and guidance to lower level professional and support staff
• May represent the organization as a primary technical contact on projects to outside vendors and customers

Required skills/experience areas include:

• Data center, engineering, or test laboratory design and implementation
• Enterprise level IT assets such as Dell servers or Cisco network architecture
• Classified DOD systems and the security accreditation process
• Authentication principles including federated authentication and multi-factor authentication
• IPv4 networks and associated network protocols and practices to include encryption for classified networks
• Virtualization technologies for Windows and Linux hosts (e.g. Kubernetes Containers and VMWare)
• Red Hat Enterprise Linux troubleshooting and management
• Windows 10/11/Server troubleshooting and management
• Active security clearance at the TS/SCI level

Preferred skills/experience areas include:

• SD-WAN Networking Experience (Design, Implement or Use)
• Virtual Desktop Interface (VDI) Administration Experience
• Hybrid-Cloud Architectures (e.g. AWS Snowball, AWS Direct Connect)

Your working location will be on-site in San Diego, CA, with project-dependent ability for hybrid work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Network Engineer - Principal Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree8+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Network Engineer - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None

ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 - $154,452.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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