Network IT Hardware Engineer

About the role

This position provides on-site technical support at NUWC Division Newport with a focus on hardware installation, network connectivity, mixed-OS system administration, and cybersecurity compliance in secure DoD environments. The role supports day-to-day operational readiness of government systems while maintaining strict adherence to security protocols, asset management procedures, and configuration control requirements. This employee will support the Marine Species Modeling Teams and a Navy Range program.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, test, and maintain computer hardware, network peripherals, switches, and structured cabling within secure NUWC environments.
• Monitor and troubleshoot LAN connectivity, identify network bottlenecks, and coordinate with NUWC personnel for infrastructure impacts or escalations.
• Perform routine hardware lifecycle tasks including inventory updates, configuration documentation, diagnostics, system replacements, and secure equipment handling.
• Administer Windows and Ubuntu Linux systems, including user account management, Group Policy adjustments, SSH key configuration, system hardening, and patching.
• Execute regular vulnerability scans, STIG-driven remediation, port audits, and cybersecurity compliance tasks in accordance with NUWC/DoD guidelines.
• Implement and enforce Least Privilege principles, manage administrative access, and maintain auditable access control records.
• Configure, collect, and review system and security audit logs to identify unauthorized access attempts, configuration drift, or anomalous activity.
• Support SQL database backup jobs (daily, weekly, monthly) and assist with restoration dry-runs as required.
• Develop simple bash scripts and automation tools to streamline monitoring, logging, and system maintenance tasks.
• Maintain cross-platform file sharing and interoperability between Windows and Linux systems across supported NUWC projects.
• Provide direct technical support to the project, ensuring systems, sensors, or analysis workstations remain operational and compliant.
• Prepare technical documentation, update configuration baselines, and support reporting requirements associated with cybersecurity audits and system reviews.
• Interact with NUWC customers, government leads, and internal project managers in a professional and timely manner.
• Perform other related duties, tasks, and responsibilities as required to support project and organizational needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related discipline with 3–5 years of relevant experience.
• OR Associate’s degree in a related field with 5–7 years of relevant technical experience.
• Experience supporting hardware, networks, and mixed Windows/Linux environments in a government, defense, or regulated setting.
• Hands-on experience with Windows and Ubuntu Linux system administration.
• Familiarity with DoD cybersecurity practices, patching requirements, and configuration management.
• Must meet eligibility requirements to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.

Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting NUWC or NAVSEA activities.
• CompTIA A+ certification preferred.
• CompTIA Security+ (or higher, e.g., CySA+, CASP+) preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 10 years of hands‑on experience in the field or a closely related technical discipline.
• Prior military experience in an IT, communications, electronics, or cybersecurity specialty is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with RMF/ATO processes, STIG implementation, ACAS/HBSS tools.
• Experience with SQL database backups or administration.
• Existing active DoD Secret clearance.

Skills

• Knowledge of foundational IT troubleshooting principles consistent with CompTIA A+ domains.
• Understanding of DoD cybersecurity principles aligned with Security+ certification standards.
• Ability to apply secure configuration practices, access control principles, and incident reporting requirements within a DoD environment.
• Strong adherence to documentation, configuration management, and compliance-driven workflows.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
• Ability to follow strict configuration management and cybersecurity protocols.
• Attention to detail and accurate documentation habits.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced government environment.
• Proficiency with Windows, Linux, and command-line tools.
• Strong communication skills and professionalism with government customers.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurances, flexible spending account, PTO, paid holidays, military leave, bereavement leave, 401k / retirement savings plan, professional development and tuition reimbursement, basic and voluntary life insurance / AD&D, short-term and long-term disability, voluntary AFLAC supplemental insurance products and employee assistance plan (EAP) program.
• Discretionary annual bonus.

Pay

TBD

Schedule

TBD