System Architect

Piper Companies is seeking a highly skilled System Architect to support mission-critical infrastructure within U.S. Government classified environments. This role involves designing, implementing, and securing scalable systems with a strong emphasis on compliance with NISPOM and ICD guidelines. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in Kubernetes, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), AWS, and system hardening practices. This role will be on-site in Reston, VA.

Key Responsibilities of the System Architect:

• Architect and deploy secure, scalable systems in classified environments.
• Implement and manage container orchestration platforms (e.g., Kubernetes).
• Automate infrastructure provisioning using Terraform, Terragrunt, or similar IaC tools.
• Administer and secure cloud environments, particularly AWS.
• Ensure compliance with federal security standards including NISPOM and ICD.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support system patching, logging, and network configuration.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications of the System Architect:

• Active TS/SCI clearance with Counterintelligence Polygraph (CI Poly).
• Proven experience as a System Architect in U.S. Government classified environments.
• Expertise in Kubernetes and container security best practices.
• Strong proficiency in Terraform, Terragrunt, or similar IaC tools.
• Hands-on experience with AWS cloud platform and secure service integration.
• DoD 8570 / DoD 8140 equivalent certification (e.g., Security , CISSP, CISA, GSEC, etc.).
  
  

Desired Qualifications of the System Architect:

• Experience with Splunk or other centralized logging platforms.
• Familiarity with McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator (Trellix).
• Experience configuring and troubleshooting Cisco routers, switches, and firewalls in secure environments.
  
  

Compensation & Benefits of the System Architect:

• Salary range: $176,800-$187,200
• Full medical, dental, vision, and sick leave as required by law
  
  

Applications will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date (10/13/2025)

Keywords:

System Architect, TS/SCI, CI Poly, SCIF, RTP, Reston, Kubernetes, Terraform, Terragrunt, AWS, Infrastructure as Code, Security , CISSP, DoD 8570, NISPOM, ICD, Splunk, McAfee ePO, Trellix, Cisco, Secure Networking, Classified Environments, Federal Systems, Cloud Security, Automation, U.S. Citizenship, 32 CFR Part 117