Kubernetes Engineer

About the role

This role focuses on Kubernetes-based platform engineering to support Navy programs within a highly secure, air-gapped environment. You will specialize in packaging, integrating, and deploying containerized applications across Kubernetes clusters, working primarily in a Linux ecosystem. Acting as a subject matter expert in containerization, you will collaborate closely with program architects to evaluate tools, onboard solutions, and operationalize Kubernetes deployments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end container packaging, build, and deployment processes into Kubernetes environments, with an emphasis on air-gapped systems.
• Evaluate, research, and vet containerization and platform tooling solutions to ensure they meet program and security requirements.
• Partner with architects to integrate microservices and legacy applications into Kubernetes-based platforms.
• Develop and manage Helm charts for packaging, versioning, and deploying applications into Kubernetes clusters.
• Configure and manage deployments using YAML manifests and CI tooling, with a preference for GitLab CI.
• Troubleshoot Kubernetes environments using command-line diagnostics, including pods, clusters, and log analysis.
• Build and optimize container images using Docker and/or Podman for production-grade environments.
• Work across RHEL 9 Linux systems, applying strong command-line expertise for administration and troubleshooting.
• Contribute to the design and support of internal, non-cloud, PaaS-style platform environments.
• Support deployment activities across networked environments, including subnets and VLANs, ensuring reliable connectivity and performance.

Requirements

• Active Secret clearance.
• Strong hands-on experience with Kubernetes, including deployment, integration, and troubleshooting.
• Deep experience with containerization using Docker and/or Podman.
• Proven expertise with RHEL-based Linux systems, including CLI troubleshooting and system diagnostics.
• Experience with Bash and/or Python scripting for automation and tooling.
• Experience working with CI pipelines, with GitLab CI preferred.
• Ability to work effectively in air-gapped and non-cloud environments.

Additional skills

• Familiarity with Make, CMake, and Gradle build systems.
• Understanding of networking concepts such as VLANs, subnets, and connectivity troubleshooting.
• Experience supporting internal platform or PaaS environments.
• Exposure to C++ applications at the integration level.
• Experience debugging system-level issues, including components such as systemd.

Job type & location

This is a Contract position based out of Manassas, VA. This is a fully onsite position with a 4/10 work schedule (off every Friday).

Pay & benefits

• Pay range: $65.00 - $85.00/hr.
• Benefits available for this temporary role may include: Medical, dental & vision; Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital; 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available; Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents); Short and long-term disability; Health Spending Account (HSA); Transportation benefits; Employee Assistance Program; Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave).