Principal Computer Systems Architect

Job Title: Computer Systems Architect 3

Job Description

Join our team as a Senior Principal Computer Systems Architect based in San Diego, CA, where you will play a pivotal role in our Enterprise-wide digital transformation. You will leverage Model-based Engineering, DevSecOps, and Agile practices to deliver critical national defense products and capabilities. This role requires full on-site presence at the San Diego Spectrum Center campus.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with engineers and technicians in a lab environment.
• Advise on the integration of emerging industry technologies into program systems.
• Implement engineering changes to the system as required.
• Review, analyze, and incorporate technical requirements into end-to-end system architectures.
• Complete network configurations and coordinate with peers, SMEs, and government engineers.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in science, engineering, or related discipline with 5 years of STEM experience or 4 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree.
• Advanced technical knowledge of Red Hat and/or other Linux operating systems.
• Experience utilizing and working with Splunk.
• Knowledge of STIGs and STIG implementation, specifically Linux BIND.
• Scripting/Programming experience in Bash/Shell, Ansible, Python, etc.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with imaging, backup, and restore software and scripting such as Clonezilla and Linux dump.
• Experience leading and managing internal programs and working with engineers to delegate tasks.
• Experience with container technologies like Docker, Red Hat OpenShift, Kubernetes.
• Strong experience with virtualization platforms such as VMWare, KVM, Hyper-V, RH-V.
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and provide milestone progress on critical items.
• Ability to mentor junior engineers and share knowledge to improve processes.
• Ability to support flexible schedules, including 2nd shift, RDO Fridays, and possibly weekends.
• Knowledge of networking and network systems, including iSCSI connectivity.
• Experience in design, implementation, and sustainment of Linux/Unix systems.
• Experience in design, implementation, and sustainment of containerization technologies.

This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.

The pay range for this position is $75.00 - $85.00/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 San Diego,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 23, 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 due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.