Forward Deployed Platform Engineer

Summary

Join Second Front Systems (2F) as a Forward Deployed Platform Engineer and play a pivotal role in delivering transformative solutions for national security. This mission-driven role involves deploying, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex software and infrastructure systems in government or defense environments. You will work directly with clients, providing technical expertise and ensuring smooth system operations while adhering to strict security protocols. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in secure system deployments and a deep technical understanding. This is a high-impact, client-facing role requiring on-site work at client locations, potentially involving travel. The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

Requirements

• Proficiency in Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, RedHat) server administration
• Proficiency working with Kubernetes
• Proficiency working in cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines, version control, and automation
• Proficiency with networking concepts, including VPNs, VLANs, and firewalls
• Experience in task automation with a language (e.g., Go, Rust, Python, Bash)
• Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in systems deployment, engineering, or operations in highly regulated environments (government, defense, etc.)
• Hands-on experience with deploying complex systems in cloud or on-premise environments
• Strong understanding of security protocols and best practices, including encryption, firewalls, access control, and identity management

Responsibilities

• Lead the deployment and configuration of software solutions in secure, classified environments
• Work closely with engineering and product teams to integrate complex systems and infrastructure
• Serve as the main technical point of contact for government clients, ensuring their needs are met while adhering to strict security protocols
• Provide on-the-ground troubleshooting and immediate support for client systems, including software bugs, hardware issues, and deployment failures
• Ensure that all deployed systems comply with government security standards and regulatory frameworks, including FedRAMP, NIST, and others
• Maintain awareness of current security risks and advise clients on mitigation strategies
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, DevOps, and security to implement secure and scalable solutions
• Maintain clear and concise documentation for system configurations, troubleshooting procedures, and security compliance activities
• Monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and suggest optimizations to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of deployed solutions
• Be on-site at client locations for system deployments, updates, and troubleshooting. Some travel to remote locations may be required

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a startup environment
• TS Security Clearance
• Knowledge of DevSecOps tools and practices
• Experience with monitoring and alerting systems (e.g., Prometheus, Grafana)

Benefits

• $180,000 - $210,000 a year
• 100% Healthcare, vision and dental coverage
• 401(k) + 3% company contribution
• Wellness perks (Fitness classes, mental health resources)
• Equity incentive plan
• Tech + office supplies stipend
• Annual professional development stipend
• Flexible paid time off + federal holidays off
• Parental leave
• Work from anywhere
• Referral Bonus