Sr. Software Engineer, AI Infrastructure (Starshield)
About this role
Scaling AI infrastructure for the Starshield constellation requires engineers who can manage high-capacity GPU clusters and secure data centers. The team builds and operates the computing foundation that supports critical national security missions for the US government.
Working across site reliability engineering and GPU platforms, the person in this role will develop automation for on-premise compute resources and manage bare-metal infrastructure. A strong candidate brings deep experience with Linux, Kubernetes, and hardware deployments, paired with the ability to lead technical decisions and mentor engineers.
What you will do
- Manage GPU and CPU infrastructure deployments within secure data centers.
- Provide bare-metal and virtualized GPU-as-a-service support for external customers.
- Design and productize solutions for large-scale AI clusters.
- Develop automation tools to deploy and manage on-premise Kubernetes and operating systems.
- Deploy and maintain core infrastructure services including databases, monitoring, and distributed storage.
- Collaborate with artificial intelligence engineers to build scalable and maintainable products.
- Monitor supporting systems to ensure high availability and reliability.
- Mentor junior engineers and guide the team toward technical excellence.
What you need
- Hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or an engineering discipline alongside five years of professional Linux experience, or possess seven years of relevant industry experience in software, DevOps, or site reliability engineering.
- Demonstrate at least five years of professional experience managing Kubernetes and Linux operating systems.
- Bring practical experience with infrastructure tools such as Terraform or Ansible.
- Have hands-on experience working with containerization technologies like OCI containers.
- Show proficiency in scripting languages including Bash and Python.
- Possess development experience in Python, C++, or Go.
- Be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment.
Nice to have
- 5+ years of experience with Python and Python-based development frameworks
- Experience managing Kubernetes clusters rather than just using them
- Knowledge of the Linux boot process and systems configuration
- Experience using NVIDIA GPU deployment stacks
- Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance
Benefits
- Company stock or long-term cash awards
- Discretionary bonuses and employee stock purchase plan
- Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and paid parental leave
- Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the salary range for this position?
The base salary ranges from $165,000.00 to $265,000.00. The actual level and base salary are determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.
What are the travel and work hour expectations?
Candidates must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed. Travel domestically and globally may also be required in the future.
Is a security clearance required?
This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, applicants are encouraged to initiate the application process promptly.
What additional compensation applies for active clearances?
Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.