Software Engineer (Kubernetes SME)

Job Title: Software Engineer (Kubernetes SME)

Job Description

We are seeking a Containerization Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a priority initiative focused on transforming a large-scale, monolithic system into modular, containerized capability packages. This role is central to enabling faster, more flexible delivery of mission-critical capabilities by designing and implementing the containerization strategy across a complex, multi-component environment. The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical leader with deep experience in Kubernetes and container technologies, capable of working directly in code, deployment pipelines, and runtime environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the containerization of system capabilities using Podman and modern container technologies.
• Deploy, manage, and troubleshoot applications in Kubernetes (K8s) environments across development and integration pipelines.
• Design and implement modular packaging approaches to enable independent delivery of system capabilities.
• Integrate containerized workflows into CI/CD pipelines, ensuring efficient build, test, package, and deployment processes.
• Develop and maintain Helm charts to standardize Kubernetes deployments.
• Create automation and tooling using Bash and Python to support container lifecycle management.
• Troubleshoot issues across Linux-based environments, including containers, nodes, and pipeline systems.
• Analyze and manage system dependencies across distributed components and external interfaces.
• Support the transition from monolithic architectures to modular, capability-based delivery models.
• Collaborate with software, DevSecOps, and systems engineering teams to ensure alignment with overall system architecture.

Essential Skills

• 10 years of experience in containerization, DevSecOps, or platform engineering.
• Experience with Kubernetes (deployment, orchestration, troubleshooting), container image creation and optimization (Podman preferred), and CI/CD pipeline integration for container workflows.
• Proficiency in Bash and Python.
• Experience developing and maintaining Helm charts.
• Strong proficiency in Linux environments.
• Demonstrated ability to work hands-on at the code, configuration, and deployment level.
• Active Secret Clearance to start.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience breaking down monolithic systems into microservices or modular architectures.
• Familiarity with C/C -based applications in Linux environments.
• Experience supporting submarine, maritime, or undersea systems (or similar complex DoD platforms).
• Background in secure DevSecOps environments.

Work Environment

This role is 100% onsite in a Manassas lab environment.

This is a Contract position based out of Manassas, VA.

The pay range for this position is $70.00 - $95.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Manassas,VA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 15, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $70 - $95