Principal Cyber Security Systems Engineer

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career-driven Principal Cyber Security Systems Engineer to join our team in Chantilly, VA. This role offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced engineer to secure and optimize complex infrastructure in support of critical missions. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure secure, scalable, and high-performing systems.

You will help design, implement, and maintain secure and scalable systems and infrastructure aligned to mission and business needs. Your role ensures performance, integrity, and protection across enterprise platforms. You will serve as a senior technical leader and mentor, guiding strategic improvements while staying on the forefront of evolving cybersecurity technologies.
 

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Designing, implementing, and maintaining complex enterprise systems and infrastructure that support strategic business objectives
• Developing and maintaining comprehensive system architecture and design documentation
• Collaborating with engineering and cybersecurity teams to ensure solutions meet security, performance, and scalability standards
• Managing and configuring network devices and appliances, including Juniper, Cisco, F5, and similar platforms
• Administering and troubleshooting Windows, Linux, and vendor appliance-based systems to ensure high availability and performance
• Planning and executing OS upgrades, patches, migrations, and system lifecycle tasks
• Developing and maintaining disaster recovery strategies and business continuity procedures
• Implementing system monitoring, alerting, and proactive response mechanisms
• Providing mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers
• Staying current on emerging technologies and industry cybersecurity trends
   

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or 4+ years of additional systems engineering experince in lieu of degree 
• 7+ years of hands-on experience in systems and cybersecurity engineering
• Current cybersecurity certification (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CEH, Security+CE, CySA+, etc.)
• Deep understanding of system architecture, infrastructure design, and engineering principles
• Advanced knowledge of networking concepts, protocols, and architecture (TCP/IP, LAN, WAN)
• Proficiency with VMWare environments, including vCenter and ESXi deployment and administration
• Experience in vulnerability management: scanning, assessment, remediation, and reporting
• Expertise with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud
• Familiarity with Elastic Stack components (Logstash, Kibana) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes)
• Skilled in both Windows and Linux administration
• Proficient in scripting and automation using Python, Bash, or PowerShell
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to lead independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment
   

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in a technical field
• Advanced cloud certification (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Azure Solutions Architect Expert)
• Experience leading security architecture reviews and implementing zero-trust architectures
• Exposure to SIEM platforms and enterprise monitoring solutions
• Prior support to IC or DoD environments with ATO/accreditation processes
   

Clearance Requirements:

• Must possess an active TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance.
   

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.
• Occasionally moves about inside the office to access file cabinets, office equipment, etc.
• Frequently communicates with co-workers, management, and customers and must be able to exchange accurate information.