Principal Systems Engineer- DevSecOps

 SAIC is looking for a Principal System Engineer to serve as the primary DevSecOps engineer on a mission-critical Navy communications program. This is a high-visibility role where you will own the containerization strategy — from architecture and build to hardening and sustainment — for systems that directly support DoD operational readiness.

 If you live and breathe containers, love solving hard security and scalability problems, and want your work to matter at a national security level, this role was built for you.

This is an ON-SITE role located in San Diego, CA

Why This Role Stands Out

• You are THE container expert on the program — your knowledge helps shape the architecture
• Work on real-world, mission-critical Navy communication systems
• Collaborative team of engineers, program managers, and government stakeholders
• Fast-paced, innovative environment where technical leadership is recognized and rewarded
• San Diego, CA — one of the best cities in the country to live and work

What You'll Do

Container Engineering & DevSecOps (Core Focus)

• Design, build, and manage the containerization platform using tools such as Docker and Kubernetes
• Build and maintain custom container images, optimized for security and performance
• Develop and manage CI/CD pipelines that integrate seamlessly with containerized environments
• Lead container hardening efforts, implementing:
  • Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
  • SECCOMP and AppArmor profiles
  • Namespace isolation and least-privilege configurations
• Ensure containers and orchestration platforms meet DoD/RMF compliance and ATO requirements
• Monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize containerized applications for high availability and resilience in production

 

Security & Compliance

• Apply Risk Management Framework (RMF) principles across the DevSecOps lifecycle
• Implement and maintain compliance with DoD/DoN cybersecurity policies
• Utilize STIGs to harden containers, hosts, and network equipment
• Maintain environment compliance with directives (IAVA/IAVM)

 

Infrastructure & Networking

• Provide network integration, configuration, and administration support
• Configure and document network systems, including Cisco networking equipment
• Integrate container-specific monitoring and logging tools (e.g., Prometheus, Grafana, ELK/EFK stack)

 

Leadership & Collaboration

• Serve as a key technical leader, providing direction and mentorship to junior engineers
• Interface regularly with management, customers, and cross-functional teams
• Participate in technical issue resolution during integration, implementation, and testing phases

SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.