SME Systems Engineer #8171

Overview

GovCIO is currently hiring a highly experienced SME Systems Engineer to support critical systems modernization and software integration activities for the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). This hybrid technical role focuses on designing, developing, and engineering complex enterprise architectures, bridging the gap between infrastructure design and custom software development. This position will be located in Alexandria, VA, and will be a hybrid position.

Responsibilities

The SME Systems Engineer will serve as the core technical authority for enterprise systems design and software integration. Core responsibilities include:

• Lead the comprehensive engineering, technical planning, and execution of modernizing legacy software systems into scalable enterprise architectures.
• Architect, write, and optimize custom software solutions, APIs, and integration scripts to connect disparate mission-critical systems.
• Analyze and address all system scalability, processing bottlenecks, software dependencies, and deployment implications across hybrid environments.
• Configure, optimize, and manage modern DevSecOps pipelines, containerized environments, and cloud infrastructure platforms.
• Design and implement robust automated workflows and data integration pipelines to streamline data governance tracking.
• Develop custom software models and interface APIs required for seamless integration into enterprise data management tools.
• Conduct technical root cause analysis, code reviews, and performance tuning on active software deployments and system nodes.
• Proactively identify architectural risks during systems migration and develop targeted software engineering workarounds.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, low-level designs (LLDs), and software architecture diagrams.

Qualifications

High School with 10+ years (or commensurate experience)

Required Skills & Experience

• Certifications: DoD 8570 IAT Level II or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CySA+, or software development equivalent).
• Deep technical proficiency in modern programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++, or Go) and full-stack software development frameworks.
• Hands-on engineering experience designing, deploying, and troubleshooting large-scale enterprise systems and cloud infrastructure.
• Proven experience managing automated CI/CD pipelines, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), and configuration management tools.

Clearance Level: Must have an active Secret clearance  

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Prior experience supporting U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) or Department of Homeland Security (DHS) software modernization programs.
• Direct experience utilizing or developing custom integrations and data connectors for the Collibra data governance platform.
• Familiarity with metadata schemas, RESTful APIs, and database structures (SQL/NoSQL) required to map enterprise data.
• Advanced knowledge of Agile/Scrum methodologies, microservices architecture, and automated software testing frameworks.

Company Overview

GovCIO is a team of transformers--people who are passionate about transforming government IT. Every day, we make a positive impact by delivering innovative IT services and solutions that improve how government agencies operate and serve our citizens.

But we can't do it alone. We need great people to help us do great things - for our customers, our culture, and our ability to attract other great people. We are changing the face of government IT and building a workforce that fuels this mission. Are you ready to be a transformer?

What You Can Expect

Interview & Hiring Process

If you are selected to move forward through the process, here’s what you can expect:

• During the Interview Process
• Virtual video interview conducted via video with the hiring manager and/or team
• Camera must be on
• A valid photo ID must be presented during each interview

• During the Hiring Process
• Enhanced Biometrics ID verification screening
• Background check, to include:
• Criminal history (past 7 years)
• Verification of your highest level of education
• Verification of your employment history (past 7 years), based on information provided in your application

Employee Perks

At GovCIO, we consistently hear that meaningful work and a collaborative team environment are two of the top reasons our employees enjoy working here. In addition, our employees have access to a range of perks and benefits to support their personal and professional well-being, beyond the standard company offered health benefits, including:

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Corporate Discounts
• Learning & Development platform, to include certification preparation content
• Training, Education and Certification Assistance*
• Referral Bonus Program
• Internal Mobility Program
• Pet Insurance
• Flexible Work Environment

*Available to full-time employees

Our employees’ unique talents and contributions are the driving force behind our success in supporting our customers, which ultimately fuels the success of our company. Join us and be a part of a culture that invests in its people and prioritizes continuous enhancement of the employee experience.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. EOE, including disability/vets.

Posted Pay Range

The posted pay range, if referenced, reflects the range expected for this position at the commencement of employment, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, education, experience, and internal equity. The total compensation package for this position may also include other compensation elements, to be discussed during the hiring process. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the GovCIO reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, GovCIO or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

Pay range: $135,000 - $172,000 Annually