IT - Systems Engineer V (SME)

Job#: 2088995

Job Description:

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Senior Kubernetes Platform Engineer - Team Lead / SME

Apex Systems is seeking a Senior Kubernetes Platform Engineer to lead and optimize an AWS EKS-based multi-tenant platform for a federal program. This role combines technical leadership with hands-on engineering to ensure platform stability, scalability, and security for mission-critical workloads. The Senior Engineer will architect solutions, drive automation, and serve as the escalation point for complex technical issues.

Position Summary

The Senior Kubernetes Platform Engineer will:

• Lead Kubernetes cluster administration (EKS) including provisioning, upgrades, node group management, and patching.
• Architect and optimize platform infrastructure for scalability and security compliance.
• Oversee creation and maintenance of Kubernetes IaC (Helm charts, Terraform modules) for tenant onboarding and environment configuration.
• Manage and patch Kubernetes-layer tooling (Cilium, Karpenter) and associated open-source components.
• Own platform network configuration (DNS, firewall services/TIC 3.0, VPN/tunnels).
• Direct base image automation, distribution, and security incident response.
• Implement and maintain load balancer configurations (public & ingress, TIC 3.0 compliance).
• Drive development of golden paths and developer self-service capabilities.
• Lead contingency planning and disaster recovery strategies, including backup/restore procedures and incident communications.
• Produce and maintain platform documentation (POAMs, SOPs, security SOPs, management plans).
• Mentor junior platform engineers and coordinate work across Cloud Ops, App Support, and Automation teams.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS/BA degree and 10 years of work experience, including:
  • 5-7 years in Kubernetes operations with AWS EKS in production.
  • Hands-on experience with Cilium and Karpenter.
  • Proven leadership in multi-tenant Kubernetes environments.
• Expertise in Helm, Terraform, ArgoCD, AWS IAM/RBAC, Cilium, and ECR.
• Experience with platform-level security and FedRAMP/NIST compliance.
• Strong scripting skills (Bash, Python, Go).
• Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) or equivalent experience preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work nights/weekends for patching or deployments.
• Ability to obtain a Public Trust clearance.

Preferred

• Experience designing automation workflows and CI/CD integration.
• Familiarity with AWS EKS best practices and enterprise-scale Kubernetes architecture.

EEO Employer

Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at or .

Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click for more details.

Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Apex team member can provide.