Lead Systems Engineer

This is a contingent position based upon contract award.

SkyePoint Decisions is seeking a Lead Systems Engineer to serve as the Task Lead and primary technical expert for a DOS program. This individual will be responsible for overseeing the technical aspects of system maintenance, enhancements, and compliance, ensuring alignment with the customer's strategic objectives and performance standards. This person will also act as the primary liaison between the contractor team and the Department, ensuring effective communication and delivery of services. This position is considered to be Key Personnel on the contract. 

This is a remote role but expect this person to be in the Washington DC area. 

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of system enhancements, ensuring they meet functional requirements and performance standards.
• Provide technical oversight for integration with other Department systems, ensuring seamless interoperability and data integrity.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for technical issues, providing guidance to the contractor team and stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain high-quality, scalable, and secure code using modern programming languages and frameworks, including .NET Core, Entity Framework Core, and Telerik UI Framework.
• Implement database solutions using Microsoft SQL Server 2019, including query optimization, stored procedures, and performance tuning.
• Create and maintain APIs to facilitate data sharing and integration with systems such as OPS, FACTS Info, IBIS, and BFPS.
• Utilize Open XML and Closed XML libraries for programmatic generation and manipulation of Word and Excel documents.
• Monitor system performance and proactively address issues to ensure 98% uptime during critical periods.
• Conduct root cause analysis for system defects and implement corrective actions within specified timeframes.
• Ensure compatibility with the Department’s baseline for servers, operating systems, and COTS software.
• Ensure all system components comply with NIST SP 800-53, FIPS PUB 199/200, and other federal IT security standards.
• Conduct security verification and validation to demonstrate system resistance to attack and misuse.
• Develop, maintain, and update all Assessment and Authorization (A&A) documentation in coordination with the Bureau Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO).
• Conduct annual security testing of security controls and provide documentation of testing results.
• Address and resolve all security findings identified during A&A processes or audits, updating POA&M documentation to reflect remediation efforts.
• Conduct annual review and validation of system user accounts to ensure compliance with access control policies.
• Report any cyber incidents affecting controlled unclassified information (CUI) to the COR and ISSO within 24 hours of detection.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including user manuals, system maintenance guides, and training materials.
• Provide training and technical support to end-users and Department staff, ensuring effective adoption of system enhancements.
• Work closely with the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), stakeholders, and end-users to ensure system functionality meets operational needs.
• Facilitate bi-weekly meetings to review progress, address issues, and prioritize requirements.
• Coordinate day-to-day activities of contractor personnel.
• Manage technical deliverables and ensure timely submission.
• Coordinate change management activities and provide weekly updates to infrastructure team.
• Support the Program Manager in contract execution and performance monitoring.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
• 5+ years of demonstrated experience in software development, system design, and IT project management.
• An active Secret security clearance.
• Proficiency in .NET Core and Entity Framework Core for developing scalable and secure applications.
• Expertise in using Telerik UI Framework for creating responsive and user-friendly interfaces.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft SQL Server 2019, including database design, query optimization, and performance tuning.
• Experience with Open XML and Closed XML for programmatically generating and manipulating Word and Excel documents.
• Strong understanding of RESTful API development and integration.
• Experience designing and implementing enterprise-level systems with a focus on scalability, security, and interoperability.
• Knowledge of modern software development methodologies, including Agile and DevOps practices.
• Familiarity with NIST SP 800-53, FIPS PUB 199/200, and other federal IT security standards.
• Experience implementing secure coding practices and conducting security assessments.
• Experience developing and maintaining A&A documentation packages, including SSPs, PIAs, Contingency Plans, and POA&Ms.
• Knowledge of security control testing methodologies and vulnerability remediation processes.
• Experience coordinating with Information Systems Security Officers (ISSOs) and supporting A&A processes.
• Proficiency in unit testing, integration testing, and system testing to ensure functionality and performance.
• Experience with Independent Validation and Verification (IV&V) processes.
• Proficiency in version control systems (e.g., Git) and CI/CD pipelines.
• Familiarity with tools like Jira, Azure DevOps, or similar project management platforms.
• Knowledge of cloud technologies and strategies for aligning with the Federal Cloud Smart Strategy.
• Experience supporting data governance policy compliance—including data inventory, metadata, interoperability (APIs), data quality, and open data requirements, while working collaboratively with Department data governance representatives, such as data stewards or other designated data management personnel.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Microsoft Certified: .NET Developer or equivalent. 
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate or equivalent.
• SQL Server Certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate).

Compensation:

Salary Range: $110,000 - $130,000

The SkyePoint Decisions salary range for this position is a general guideline only. It represents an estimated range for this position and is just one piece of our total compensation package. 

Salary at SkyePoint is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, work schedule, the candidate’s combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability, market data and business considerations.

In addition to a competitive salary, SkyePoint offers benefits including a certification incentive program, PTO, floating federal holiday options, several insurance options including HMO and High Deductible plans with Health Savings Accounts [HSAs], Flex Spending Accounts [FSAs], Full Dental Plans, Vision, ST/LT Disability, Life Insurance, and 401k matched.