Senior Systems-Network Engineer

Varda • El Segundo, CA

63d • Onsite

About The Position

At Varda Space Industries, we're pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space and materials science - and we're looking for bold engineers to help us get there. As a senior System/Network Engineer, you'll be critical in building, scaling, and maintaining the infrastructure that powers our systems on Earth, in orbit and everything in between. This is a full-time, onsite role where you'll wear multiple hats from IT operations, Network and System engineering to support our mission operations. You'll move fast, think creatively, and have a tremendous impact on mission-critical systems both on Earth and in space. We are seeking an experienced Senior System/Network Engineer to join our team, specializing in IT infrastructure, networking, system administration and integration within a Government Community Cloud High (GCCH) environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in designing, implementing, and maintaining secure IT systems and networks. This role requires a blend of technical proficiency, problem-solving skills, and the ability to ensure compliance with government security standards.

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in IT infrastructure or systems engineering, with increasing levels of responsibility
• 5+ years of experience in network technologies (TCP/IP, VLANs, VPNs, DNS, DHCP, routing/switching, firewalls).
• Extensive technical knowledge of Windows and Linux operating systems, virtualization technologies, and network configurations.
• Strong background with Linux systems (shells, daemons, processes) and programming skills in Python/PowerShell
• Excellent troubleshooting, documentation, and communication skills.
• Understanding of ITIL best practices
• Must be physically able to regularly lift 25 lbs. for duties such as delivering computers, unpacking and rack-mounting equipment, etc.

Nice To Haves

• 3+ years of experience with infrastructure as code / configuration management is a plus
• Experience building out network across physical and cloud locations
• Proven experience implementing and enforcing security and compliance controls aligned with CMMC, NIST 800-171, and FedRAMP requirements.
• Microsoft, CompTIA, or Cisco certifications (e.g., Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert, MS-500, Security+, CCNP).

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and maintain enterprise-level network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls, and VPNs.
• Implement and maintain network security protocols, including intrusion detection systems and access controls, in compliance with GCCH requirements.
• System Administration: Manage and maintain Windows/Linux servers. Perform regular maintenance, upgrades, and patches.
• Support mission launches and re-entries
• Rotate through the team's on-call schedule to keep critical systems healthy and responsive.
• Occasionally travel to customer sites and other Varda locations to troubleshoot, deploy, or test critical infrastructure.

Benefits

• Exciting team of professionals at the top of their field working by your side
• Equity in a fully funded space startup with potential for significant growth (interns excluded)
• 401(k) matching (interns excluded)
• Unlimited PTO (interns excluded)
• Health insurance, including Vision and Dental
• Lunch and snacks provided on site every day. Dinners provided twice a week.
• Maternity / Paternity leave (interns excluded)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees