Systems Engineer

Marathon TS; Ashburn (VA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Marathon TS seeks a Systems Engineer to support a newly awarded DHS CBP program onsite in Ashburn, VA. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing system solutions, with emphasis on security, reliability, and performance across enterprise networks.

The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of system architecture, network protocols like TCP/IP, and experience coordinating cross-functional teams. A CBP BI or equivalent clearance is required, with on-call support as needed.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in IT, Systems Engineering, or related field OR 8+ years of IT support/engineering experience.
• Strong understanding of system integration, networks, and application development principles.
• Familiarity with IT security standards, DHS-related guidelines, and CBP BI/Suitability processes.
• Clearance requirement: U.S. Citizenship with active CBP BI or equivalent clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement system solutions for CBP-related missions.
• Collaborate with IT and project teams to translate requirements into functional specs.
• Perform system performance testing and validation of configurations.
• Troubleshoot issues to improve system availability and performance.
• Document architecture designs, configurations, and operational processes for compliance.
• Maintain network standards and participate in planning for new infrastructure.
• Ensure systems align with security standards and organizational policies.
• Provide training and support to IT staff as designated.

Skills

System architecture

Engineering principles

Troubleshooting

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's degree in IT or Systems Engineering

8+ years IT/Systems experience

Tools

Network measurement tools

RFID device integration

License Plate Readers

Document/fingerprint scanners

Job description

Required Clearance: Candidates must have had an active DHS clearance from a reciprocal agency (e.g., CBP, TSA, USCIS, or ICE) any time within the past 2 years. This is a mandatory requirement. All candidates must successfully obtain CBP Background Investigation (BI) / Suitability approval prior to their start date.

130k-135k/year

Newly awarded contract!

Marathon TS is looking to hire a Systems Engineer to support a newly awarded contract in support of the Department of Homeland Security (Client) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) onsite in Ashburn, VA. All candidates will play a pivotal role in the design, implementation, and optimization of technology solutions supporting the mission of the U.S.

Customs and Border Protection's Office of Information and Technology (CBP Client). This position requires a deep understanding of system architecture and engineering principles to ensure the effective operation, performance, reliability, and security of applications and devices utilized by the Passenger Systems Program Directorate (PSPD). Collaborating with cross-functional teams, the individual will analyze system requirements, design innovative technical solutions, and coordinate the integration of complex systems, ensuring they align with both business objectives and compliance standards established by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (Client). Additionally, the engineer is responsible for ongoing troubleshooting, performance monitoring, complex communication problem diagnosis, and rigorous documentation of all system changes to support day-to-day operations.

Furthermore, the Systems Engineer III will supervise, coordinate, and perform additions, changes, and configurations to network hardware, operating systems, and attached devices for voice and data communication networks. This hands-on operational role includes investigating, installing, and testing new network hardware and software, evaluating system utilization, monitoring response times, and providing technical consultation, training, and support to designated IT staff. The engineer will actively participate in the planning, design, and technical review of new network infrastructure while maintaining strict industry standards, including communication protocols like TCP/IP, and troubleshooting at both the physical level and the logical level using network measurement tools.

Due to the sensitive nature of this federal mission, candidates must successfully possess a CBP Background Investigation (BI) / Suitability Clearance prior to onboarding.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and implement system solutions that meet project specifications and user requirements.
• Collaborate with IT and project management teams to understand system specifications and translate them into functional requirements.
• Conduct system performance testing, assessment, and validation of software and hardware configurations.
• Identify and troubleshoot system issues, providing timely solutions to enhance system availability and performance.
• Document system architecture designs, configurations, and operational processes for ongoing reference and compliance.
• Maintain network infrastructure standards, ensuring full compliance with core communication protocols including TCP/IP. Participate heavily in planning, design, and technical reviews for new infrastructure rollouts.
• Work with stakeholders to ensure that systems are compatible with security standards and organizational policies.
• Participate in cross-functional team meetings to provide insights regarding system enhancement opportunities and issues resolution.
• Act as an enterprise technical consultant, providing direct training and support to IT staff as designated by the government.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills to interface effectively with government stakeholders and executive IT management.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Ability to provide on-call, off-hours, and weekend support to troubleshoot critical production issues as needed.
• Evaluate, test, and integrate customized hardware and peripheral devices (e.g., RFID, License Plate Readers, document/fingerprint scanners) into the application and desktop environments.

Requirements:

• Master's degree (Information Technology, Systems Engineering, or a related field) or more than 8 years of experience in IT support or a related field, preferably in a government or large organizational setting.
• Strong understanding of systems integration, network systems, and application development principles.
• Familiarity with IT security standards and practices, particularly those relevant to the Department of Homeland Security.
• Clearance Requirement: U.S. Citizenship is required and an active favorable U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Background Investigation (BI) or possess an active, fully adjudicated CBP clearance.

Marathon TS is committed to the development of a creative, diverse and inclusive work environment. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at Marathon TS will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. Marathon TS does not discriminate against any person because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age or any other characteristic protected by law (referred to as "protected status ").