Platform Engineer
Job Description
Defense Unicorns is seeking an experienced Platform Engineer to join their mission-driven team focused on advancing freedom and independence globally. This role combines DevOps expertise with security-focused software delivery, making it ideal for engineers passionate about both technical excellence and national security.
The position offers a unique opportunity to work with cutting-edge cloud-native technologies while supporting critical government and defense initiatives. As a Platform Engineer, you'll be responsible for bridging the gap between application development and production environments, implementing secure CI/CD pipelines, and mentoring junior engineers.
Key technologies you'll work with include Kubernetes, GitLab CI/CD, infrastructure as code tools, and various cloud platforms. The role requires strong programming skills (Python, Go, or similar), extensive experience with cloud deployments, and a deep understanding of security practices.
The company offers an impressive benefits package including 100% company-paid medical/dental/vision insurance, stock options, unlimited PTO, and a strong focus on professional development. The remote work environment and competitive salary range ($147,175 - $190,000) make this an attractive opportunity for senior engineers looking to make an impact in the defense sector.
Requirements include U.S. citizenship and security clearance eligibility, reflecting the sensitive nature of the work. The ideal candidate will bring a combination of technical expertise, security awareness, and leadership skills to help drive Defense Unicorns' mission of delivering secure, efficient software solutions for their government clients.
This role would be particularly appealing to engineers who value working on meaningful projects with national impact, enjoy mentoring others, and are interested in the intersection of cloud-native technologies and security. The company's culture emphasizes both technical innovation and national service, creating a unique environment for professional growth.
Responsibilities For Platform Engineer
- Break down complex technical issues into manageable tasks for junior engineers
- Validate solutions and implementations
- Independently solve business problems
- Provide accurate time and effort estimates for medium-sized tasks
- Own the bridge between the Application Development team and the Production Environment
- Establish and facilitate automated Zarf builds as part of CI
- Build and maintain automated pipeline functions
- Implement infrastructure as code
- Create and maintain operational runbooks and alerts
Requirements For Platform Engineer
- Proficient with Gitlab CI with preferred experience using Gitlab's CI/CD Component
- Experience managing GitLab Runners
- Experience with cloud-native technologies such as Kubernetes, Google Cloud, and Docker
- Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, Go, Ansible)
- Proficient with YAML
- Experience with security automation and API Security
- Hold a security clearance/Eligible to apply for a security clearance
- Possess a DoD 8570 IAT II certification
- U.S. Citizenship required
Benefits For Platform Engineer
- Medical/Dental/Vision (100% Company Paid)
- Health Reimbursement Account
- Life Insurance
- Disability Insurance
- 401k Retirement Plan
- Company Stock Options
- Home Office Budget
- Unlimited paid time off
- Paid Parental Leave
- Training reimbursement
- Conference travel and fees covered
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