Systems Engineer

Leidos; Fort Walton Beach (FL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos is seeking a Systems Engineer to support the Air Force Special Operations Command RPA Operations Center at Hurlburt Field. You will act as a technical SME driving integration, modernization, and sustainment of mission-critical IT systems across a dispersed enterprise.

The role operates in a fast-paced environment with DoD cybersecurity requirements, VDI management, and containerized solution integration. A TS/SCI clearance is required and mentorship of junior staff is expected.

Qualifications

• BS in Systems Engineering, CS, IT, or related field with 4–8 years experience (or MS with 2–6).
• Must have a current TS/SCI clearance.
• Security+ CE (IAT Level II).
• Hands‑on experience with VMware ESXi, vCenter, Horizon, vSAN, and App Volumes.
• Experience managing and troubleshooting VDI environments.
• Proficiency with Windows Server, Windows workstation, and Red Hat Linux.

Responsibilities

• Engineer, integrate, test, and sustain DoD IT systems supporting AFSOC RPA operations.
• Deploy and maintain VMware ESXi, vCenter, Horizon, vSAN, and App Volumes.
• Support and refine VDI environments for mission readiness.
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot Windows Server, Windows workstation, and Red Hat Linux.
• Integrate new software and containerized solutions (Kubernetes) into data center architectures.
• Develop test plans to verify system functionality and mission readiness.
• Produce CONOPS, integration guides, and O&M documentation; mentor staff.
• Support ISSOs in maintaining ATOs and RMF artifacts.

Skills

Security+ CE (IAT Level II)

Kubernetes

Docker

CI/CD

DevSecOps

AI integration

DoD networks

NIST 800-53

ICD 503

DISA STIG

VCP certification

Education

BS in Systems Engineering, CS, IT, or related field

MS in related field

Tools

VMware ESXi

vCenter

Horizon

vSAN

App Volumes

Job description

Clearance: TS/SCI

Leidos is seeking a Systems Engineer to support the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) RPA Operations Center (ROC) at Hurlburt Field.

This role is embedded in a fast‑paced operational environment where engineering decisions directly affect mission execution for Special Operations forces. The selected candidate serves as a technical SME, driving integration, modernization, and sustainment of mission‑critical IT systems across a geographically dispersed enterprise.

Mission-Focused Responsibilities

• Engineer, integrate, test, and sustain DoD IT systems supporting AFSOC RPA operations
• Deploy and maintain VMware ESXi, vCenter, Horizon, vSAN, and App Volumes across operational sites
• Support and refine VDI environments to ensure stable, mission-ready performance
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot Windows Server, Windows workstation, and Red Hat Linux systems
• Integrate new software and containerized solutions (e.g., Kubernetes) into existing data center architectures
• Execute field deployments, system upgrades, and hardware/software modernization efforts
• Restore system baselines and resolve technical issues impacting mission continuity

Operational Engagement

• Work directly with operators, administrators, and mission partners to refine requirements
• Conduct trade studies and provide technical recommendations to improve performance and mitigate risk
• Perform requirements analysis, interface definition, and functional assessments

Test & Validation

• Develop and execute test plans that verify system functionality and mission readiness

Documentation & Training

• Produce CONOPS, integration guides, O&M documentation, and architecture diagrams
• Mentor junior staff and train customer personnel on system operations

Cybersecurity & ATO Support

• Support ISSOs in maintaining ATOs and RMF artifacts (SSPs, POA&Ms, etc.)
• Ensure systems meet DoD cybersecurity requirements, STIGs, and security frameworks

Required Qualifications

• BS in Systems Engineering, CS, IT, or related field with 4–8 years experience (or MS with 2–6). Additional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Must have a current TS/SCI
• Security+ CE (IAT Level II)
• Hands‑on experience with VMware ESXi, vCenter, Horizon, vSAN, and App Volumes
• Experience managing and troubleshooting VDI environments
• Proficiency with Windows Server, Windows workstation, and Red Hat Linux

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting AFSOC, SOCOM, or Special Operations programs
• Familiarity with RPA systems, operations centers, or C2 infrastructure
• Experience with Windows CM endpoint tools (MECM, Trellix Agent, certificate authorities)
• Experience with Kubernetes, Docker, or other container platforms
• Experience performing physical‑to‑virtual (P2V) transitions
• VMware certification (VCP or equivalent)
• Experience with DoD unclassified and classified networks
• Experience working with external vendors for sales quotes and technical support
• Experience working with or as an ISSO in a DoD or IC environment
• Experience with AI technologies or integration
• Knowledge of NIST 800‑53, ICD 503, or DISA STIG frameworks
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices
• CASP+ or other advanced cybersecurity certifications

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.