Principal Engineer / Technical LeadJoin the team transforming secure cloud operations for the future. We're seeking a Principal Engineer / Technical Lead to support the Compartmented Enterprise Services Office (CESO) in Arlington, VA. This effort is building a modern Secure Web Service (SWS) operation on a cutting-edge, highly automated platform designed to support a rapidly expanding customer base.
In this role, you'll help drive CESO's migration to a high-security cloud environment, delivering key capabilities such as network and communication services, monitoring services, and system administration. If you're ready to make an impact on a mission-critical DISA program and work with a team shaping the next generation of secure enterprise services, apply today!This position is based in Arlington, VA and is 100% on-site.Primary Responsibilities:EngineeringExperience in working on teams utilizing Agile workflows and processesEngineer and architect the database architecture to support modernization initiativesTranslate mission outcomes and prioritized product backlog items into technical delivery plans and sprint goalsDevelop, maintain, and evolve a modernized database architecture aligned to modernization initiatives, including cloud adoptionDesign, implement, and test database architecture solutions that improve scalability, resilience, security, and performanceRe-engineer and transition legacy databases to modernized architectures while enabling coexistence across on-premises and cloud ecosystemsGather, define, and refine database and reporting requirements for internal and external usersMaintain enterprise architecture documentation and technical artifacts, including data models, SOPs, installation guides, and related engineering documentationLead development and integration of secure APIs, data pipelines (structured/unstructured)Experience with software development languages/environments such as: JavaScript, GitLab, Jenkins, Ansible Automation, Java, PSSQL, YAML, and TerraformDevelop automated CI/CD build/deployment pipelines using Ansible and Bitbucket/Gitlab.Implement DevSecOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, observability, and security controlsImplement software release version control, provide release management support throughout a software product's life cycle (initial software development through promotion to Test, QA and Production Environments), ensuring the consistency and reliability of software buildsOrganizational & Technical LeadershipDefine and drive long-term technical strategy and architectural direction across teamsOversee the design and delivery of scalable, secure, and maintainable software solutionsServe as a senior technical authority and escalation point for cross-team and cross-domain issuesChampion engineering excellence, including automated testing, CI/CD, reliability, and securityEstablish standards, best practices, and governance for software developmentGuide the responsible adoption of generative AI tools across engineering teamsPeople Management & Leadership DevelopmentLead, manage, and develop senior engineers and technical teamsOwn performance management, career development, succession planning, and talent growthBuild and sustain a high-performing, inclusive engineering cultureCoach leaders on effective team management, delivery, and technical decision-makingDelivery & ExecutionOwn delivery outcomes across Agile teams, ensuring predictability and qualityPartner with product and business stakeholders to align roadmaps, priorities, and executionEnsure effective Agile practices, metrics, and continuous improvement using JiraBalance near-term delivery with long-term platform and technical investmentsIncorporate customer feedback, operational insights, and data to drive product improvementsCross-Functional & Executive CollaborationAct as a key engineering representative in cross-functional and leadership discussionsCommunicate technical vision, risks, and progress to senior leadershipInfluence product strategy through deep understanding of users and technical constraintsDrive alignment across engineering, product, design, and operationsBasic QualificationsCandidate must have an active TS/SCI security clearanceBA and 12+ years of experience. Additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of degree.Proven track record of leading multiple teams and delivering complex software systemsDemonstrated leadership skills and attention to detail, including excellent organizational and documentation skillsMinimum of 10 years of hands-on technical experience in at least three of the following areas: Oracle, SQL Server, Java, engineered systems, cloud technologies, data integration, automated testing and deployments, and DevSecOpsDemonstrated experience supporting database engineering, architecture, modernization, and Tier III technical support functions in complex enterprise environmentsStrong background in automated testing, CI/CD, and modern software delivery practicesExperience with software development languages/environments such as: JavaScript, GitLab, Jenkins, Ansible Automation, Java, PSSQL, YAML, and TerraformHands-on full-SDLC Agile Software Development experience, including full software lifecycle automation experience (design, development, test, deployment), including deployment to a production environmentExperience designing, building, and deploying DevOps pipelines with Bitbucket, Git, Jenkins, Artifactory and Ansible (or equivalent tools)Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skillsExperience working in a high op-temp, top secret environmentPrevious experience tracking projects in Jira or equivalent Agile Project Management softwareExperience with the following technologies:GradlePowerShellJava Full StackOracle 19cApache HTTPApache TomcatWebservicesPreferred QualificationsPrior experienced with DISA and DISA's support to mission partnersPrior experience leading database modernization and transformation initiatives involving legacy-to-modern platform migration, cloud adoption, or hybrid enterprise environments.Experience in high-availability, mission-critical, or large-scale federal enterprise systems requiring strong reliability, performance, and security.Demonstrated success leading teams responsible for database architecture standards, engineering governance, integration, and technical problem resolution.Experience working in environments that require close coordination with government stakeholders, cross-functional technical teams, and multiple contractors.