Forward Deployed Infrastructure Engineer (Mid-Level)

Spear AI•Manassas, VA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

As a forward-deployed engineer, you’ll work on-site with customers — writing code, integrating systems, and solving hard problems in the field. You’re part engineer, part technical advisor, and wholly accountable for making the mission succeed. The position requires a current or active U.S. Secret clearance. Spear AI is a growing defense contracting company dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that support our nation’s security. As we expand, we’re building a culture where innovation meets mission-critical work. We operate with a flat organizational structure that empowers every team member to make an impact, collaborate directly with leadership, and contribute to projects that matter. Whether you’re joining our Hardware, Software, or Services division, you’ll work alongside talented professionals who are committed to excellence and advancing the capabilities that keep our nation safe and secure. Spear AI builds sonobuoy sensors that are deployed into the water and collect edge data. We also work with the U.S. Navy to collect and process their SONAR data. You’ll have an opportunity to work on real-world projects that directly impact warfighter capabilities and mission success.

Requirements

Strong Software Engineering skills.
Expert in Infrastructure as Code using Pulumi or Terraform.
Expert in Docker and Kubernetes.
Experience with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), Linux system administration, and Podman.
Experience deploying and managing containerized environments using Docker, Kubernetes, Helm, and Podman.
Expert in CI/CD and DevSecOps, including GitLab CI/CD and GitHub Actions.
Proficiency in AWS and/or other cloud services.
Experience with scripting and automation using Bash, Python, Go, or TypeScript.
Proficiency with networking.
Familiar with cybersecurity compliance frameworks like CMMC, PCI, or SOC.
Familiar with Single Sign-on and Identity Providers (IdP) like Authentik and Keycloak.
Experience deploying to air-gapped environments.
Experience self-hosting on bare metal servers.
Active Secret clearance required.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting classified DoD or Navy environments.
Experience deploying infrastructure into air-gapped environments.
Familiarity with observability tools such as OpenTelemetry, Sentry, or SigNoz.
Experience supporting edge computing, maritime systems, or sensor platforms.
Experience with AWS GovCloud or other secure cloud environments.
Experience working directly with government customers in operational environments.

Responsibilities

Design and implement cloud architecture.
Develop Infrastructure as Code using Pulumi.
Build and maintain GitLab CI/CD and DevSecOps pipelines.
Continuously deploy to AWS cloud and air-gapped environments.
Monitor applications/services with OpenTelemetry, Sentry, and SigNoz.
Enforce CMMC compliance policies and rules.
Manage secrets and configuration.
Deploy, configure, and troubleshoot infrastructure within customer and air-gapped environments.
Support RHEL/Linux-based platforms using Kubernetes, Podman, Docker, and Helm in operational environments.
Partner directly with customer engineering teams to integrate, test, and resolve infrastructure issues.
Travel to customer sites as needed to support deployments, upgrades, and mission execution.

Benefits

Unlimited PTO
Dedicated sick time
Comprehensive health and benefits – Medical, dental, and vision coverage
11 Paid Holidays
Professional development
Collaborative environment
Mission-driven work
Growth opportunities
401(k) with company match
Onsite / Remote / Flexible work arrangements or hybrid options (position dependent)
Relocation assistance (position dependent)
Referral bonuses
Performance bonuses
Life insurance and disability coverage
Technology home office setup stipend
Professional certification reimbursement (position dependent)