Systems Engineer

Systems Engineer: AFSOC RPA ROC Program

Location: Cannon AFB New Mexico

Clearance: Top Secret with ability to obtain SCI access

Leidos is seeking a Systems Engineer to support the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) RPA Operations Center (ROC) at Hurlburt Field.

This role is embedded in a fast‑paced operational environment where engineering decisions directly affect mission execution for Special Operations forces. The selected candidate serves as a technical SME, driving integration, modernization, and sustainment of mission‑critical IT systems across a geographically dispersed enterprise.

Mission-Focused Responsibilities

• Engineer, integrate, test, and sustain DoD IT systems supporting AFSOC RPA operations
• Deploy and maintain VMware ESXi, vCenter, Horizon, vSAN, and App Volumes across operational sites
• Support and refine VDI environments to ensure stable, mission-ready performance
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot Windows Server, Windows workstation, and Red Hat Linux systems
• Integrate new software and containerized solutions (e.g., Kubernetes) into existing data center architectures
• Execute field deployments, system upgrades, and hardware/software modernization efforts
• Restore system baselines and resolve technical issues impacting mission continuity

Operational Engagement

• Work directly with operators, administrators, and mission partners to refine requirements
• Conduct trade studies and provide technical recommendations to improve performance and mitigate risk
• Perform requirements analysis, interface definition, and functional assessments

Test & Validation

• Develop and execute test plans that verify system functionality and mission readiness

Documentation & Training

• Produce CONOPS, integration guides, O&M documentation, and architecture diagrams
• Mentor junior staff and train customer personnel on system operations

Cybersecurity & ATO Support

• Support ISSOs in maintaining ATOs and RMF artifacts (SSPs, POA&Ms, etc.)
• Ensure systems meet DoD cybersecurity requirements, STIGs, and security frameworks

Required Qualifications

• BS in Systems Engineering, CS, IT, or related field with 4–8 years’ experience (or MS with 2–6). Additional years of related experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Current Top Secret clearance with the ability to obtain SCI access prior to start date.
• Security+ CE (IAT Level II)
• Hands-on experience with VMware ESXi, vCenter, Horizon, vSAN, and App Volumes
• Experience managing and troubleshooting VDI environments
• Proficiency with Windows Server, Windows workstation, and Red Hat Linux

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting AFSOC, SOCOM, or Special Operations programs
• Familiarity with RPA systems, operations centers, or C2 infrastructure
• Experience with Windows CM endpoint tools (MECM, Trellix Agent, certificate authorities)
• Experience with Kubernetes, Docker, or other container platforms
• Experience performing physical-to-virtual (P2V) transitions
• VMware certification (VCP or equivalent)
• Experience with DoD unclassified and classified networks
• Experience working with external vendors for sales quotes and technical support
• Experience working with or as an ISSO in a DoD or IC environment
• Experience with AI technologies or integration
• Knowledge of NIST 800‑53, ICD 503, or DISA STIG frameworks
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices
• CASP+ or other advanced cybersecurity certifications

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:

August 17, 2026

Pay Range:

Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.