Systems Development Engineer, Public Sector

Google is seeking a Systems Development Engineer for their Public Sector division, focusing on supporting Database, Storage, and Backup systems within cleared spaces for government clients. This role combines traditional systems engineering with modern DevOps practices, requiring expertise in Kubernetes, Linux, and infrastructure automation.

The position is part of Google's Sovereign Operations (SOSR) team, which provides critical support for government clients while ensuring compliance with strict security protocols. The role demands a unique blend of technical expertise and security clearance, specifically requiring an active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph clearance.

The ideal candidate will have at least 3 years of experience in systems automation and infrastructure management, with a strong background in troubleshooting and system design. They will be responsible for maintaining system availability, performance, and security while collaborating with internal teams to achieve shared objectives.

Key responsibilities include complex infrastructure troubleshooting, responding to tickets within SLOs, contributing to documentation, and participating in 24x7 on-call rotation. The role offers competitive compensation ($132,000-$189,000 base salary) plus bonus, equity, and comprehensive benefits.

This position represents an opportunity to work on meaningful projects at scale while supporting critical government infrastructure. Google emphasizes self-direction and provides support and mentorship for continuous learning and growth. The role combines technical challenges with the opportunity to impact public sector operations, making it ideal for engineers interested in both technical depth and public service.

The position is based in Reston, VA, and requires strong communication skills, as the engineer will interact frequently with internal teams and stakeholders. Google's collaborative culture encourages thinking big and taking risks in a blame-free environment, while maintaining the highest standards of security and compliance required for government work.