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• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #4102

Title: Requirements Project Manager
Location: Columbia, MD
Compensation Range: $185 -$205K
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government.  Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission.  Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation’s toughest and most secure problems.  If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don’t look any further than Cornerstone Defense.

Benefits Overview:
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *

Position Description:
Seeking a Requirements Project Manager to provide requirements management and project coordination support throughout the project lifecycle. This role will analyze, track, clarify, validate, and maintain stakeholder requirements while coordinating activities, deliverables, schedules, and communications across one or more system components.
The Requirements Project Manager will support requirements decomposition, performance requirements development, requirements traceability, requirements database maintenance, and the successful execution of project objectives. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in requirements management, systems engineering processes, and project coordination within complex technical environments.

Core Tasks:

• Provide requirements management support to analyze, track, and clarify stakeholder requirements to ensure efficient execution across one or more system components.
• Manage requirements, validate requirements, and verify that project outputs meet defined stakeholder expectations.
• Coordinate requirements-related activities, deliverables, schedules, dependencies, action items, and stakeholder communications.
• Develop performance requirements, including metrics, mission threads, and use cases.
• Decompose end-user needs into clear, achievable, and verifiable requirements.
• Assist with the development and maintenance of requirements management processes and participate in requirements reviews, working groups, and related activities.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to support project execution and ensure requirements activities remain aligned with project scope, schedule, and objectives.
• Track and maintain traceability of technical information throughout the system lifecycle.
• Trace capabilities to requirements and maintain requirements databases as updates and changes occur.
• Monitor requirements status, risks, issues, dependencies, and changes, and communicate impacts to stakeholders.
• Support requirements change management activities, including documenting proposed changes and coordinating reviews, approvals, and implementation.
• Prepare requirements status reports, tracking tools, briefings, and project documentation.
• Perform additional duties related to requirements management, requirements analysis, requirements designation, and project coordination.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Business, Project Management, or a related field with 10 years of relevant experience; OR Bachelor’s degree in a relevant STEM field with 12 years of relevant experience; OR High School diploma/equivalent with 16 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree.
• Experience with requirements management, systems engineering, and project coordination processes.
• Experience developing and analyzing performance requirements, metrics, mission threads, and use cases.
• Experience decomposing stakeholder and end-user needs into clear, achievable, testable, and verifiable requirements.
• Experience with requirements validation, verification, traceability, change management, and lifecycle management processes.
• Experience using requirements management databases, project management tools, repositories, or similar systems.
• Experience tracking and maintaining traceability of technical information throughout the project lifecycle.
• Experience tracing capabilities to requirements and maintaining and updating requirements databases when changes occur.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, coordination, facilitation, and technical writing skills.
• Ability to work effectively with stakeholders and cross-functional technical teams while managing multiple priorities.

• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #4101

Title: Senior AI Token Specialist
Location: Columbia, MD
Compensation Range: $215 -$235K
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government.  Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission.  Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation’s toughest and most secure problems.  If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don’t look any further than Cornerstone Defense.

Benefits Overview:
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *

Position Description:
Seeking an experienced AI Token Specialist to support the U.S. Cyber Command Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (CAIO) by providing technical expertise in large language models, generative AI, token economics, AI resource management, and enterprise AI operations. This role will develop strategies, cost models, requirements, technical documentation, and operational guidance to optimize AI token usage and inform budgeting, licensing, procurement, infrastructure, and resource allocation decisions.
The ideal candidate combines deep technical understanding of modern AI systems with strong analytical and strategic planning capabilities to help leadership maximize AI effectiveness while managing operational costs and enterprise-scale adoption.

Core Tasks:

• Develop strategies to manage, allocate, monitor, and optimize AI token usage across mission workloads.
• Analyze LLM architectures, tokenization methods, context windows, input/output pricing models, prompt efficiency, and vector embeddings.
• Evaluate AI tools, models, APIs, and platforms based on capability, cost, latency, scalability, and infrastructure requirements.
• Monitor commercial market trends related to LLM pricing, token consumption, cloud-based APIs, software licensing, and enterprise AI adoption.
• Build cost models, spending forecasts, and financial analyses to support AI software, cloud services, API infrastructure, and investment decisions.
• Analyze, document, and validate technical and acquisition requirements.
• Review white papers, technical proposals, vendor submissions, and financial analyses to support procurement and acquisition decisions.
• Develop technical documentation, white papers, procedures, policies, and command-level guidance.
• Advise leadership on model selection, prompt engineering methodologies, context-window management, token budgeting, and AI resource allocation strategies.
• Brief the CAIO, senior leaders, acquisition personnel, and technical stakeholders on findings, recommendations, risks, and opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related technical discipline, 10 years with a Master’s degree, or 16 years with a High School diploma and relevant experience.
• Extensive experience in artificial intelligence, machine learning systems engineering, technical architecture, LLM operations, AI resource management, requirements analysis, or acquisition support.
• Minimum 10 years of experience supporting U.S. Government and Department of Defense policies, directives, governance structures, technology acquisition, artificial intelligence initiatives, data ethics, or emerging technologies.
• Experience supporting Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, U.S. Government, cyber mission, or national security organizations.
• Demonstrated expertise in LLM architectures, generative AI technologies, token mechanics, context windows, token pricing structures, tokenization methodologies, vector embeddings, cloud-based AI APIs, and enterprise AI scaling.
• Experience developing cost models, spending forecasts, financial analyses, market assessments, business cases, and investment recommendations.
• Strong technical writing, requirements development, documentation, briefing, presentation, and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #4100

Title: Graphic Designer
Location: Columbia, MD
Compensation Range: $135 -$155K
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government.  Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission.  Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation’s toughest and most secure problems.  If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don’t look any further than Cornerstone Defense.

Benefits Overview:
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *

Position Description:
Seeking an experienced Graphic Designer to design and produce clear, compelling visual and written communications across print, digital, web, presentation, dashboard, video, mobile, and immersive environments. This role transforms complex technical information into engaging visual stories that support organizational communications, outreach, reporting, and executive decision-making.
The Graphic Designer will collaborate closely with subject matter experts and cross-functional teams to create presentations, reports, publications, dashboards, campaigns, and other communications products. Deliverables must adhere to organizational requirements, visual brand standards, established design languages, and Section 508 accessibility requirements.

Core Tasks:

• Meet with stakeholders and subject matter experts to understand project requirements, audiences, key messages, and deliverables.
• Design and produce static and interactive presentations, reports, publications, dashboards, infographics, and other visual communications products.
• Develop data visualizations, information graphics, layouts, charts, diagrams, and visual storytelling solutions for technical and executive audiences.
• Support organizational communications strategies, outreach initiatives, branding efforts, and messaging campaigns.
• Research, conduct interviews, and analyze information to support content development activities.
• Write, edit, proofread, and maintain technical, editorial, and communications content.
• Utilize Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office tools to design, format, and produce high-quality deliverables.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts and team members to ensure content accuracy and maintain clear, consistent messaging.
• Incorporate stakeholder feedback and manage revisions through final product delivery.
• Apply organizational branding standards, visual guidelines, and Section 508 accessibility requirements.
• Organize source files, templates, content archives, and production assets for collaboration, delivery, and future reuse.
• Manage multiple assignments simultaneously, track deadlines, and communicate project status, risks, and requirements.
• Evaluate and refine communications products to ensure accuracy, effectiveness, visual consistency, and audience relevance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree, 10 years with a Master’s degree, or 16 years with a High School diploma in a relevant discipline.
• Experience in communications, English, technical writing, editorial writing, or a directly related field.
• Experience supporting Department of Defense organizations and programs.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio.
• Experience using Adobe Creative Suite, including Adobe Acrobat Professional, Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
• Experience supporting marketing communications, content development, or intelligence-related initiatives.
• Experience designing visual products across print, digital, presentation, web, video, mobile, two-dimensional, and three-dimensional environments.
• Knowledge of data visualization, information design, page layout, and visual storytelling principles.
• Ability to apply visual branding standards and Section 508 accessibility compliance requirements.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, organizational, and collaboration skills.

Preferred:

• Experience supporting intelligence community, defense, or national security organizations.
• Advanced expertise in executive-level presentation design and strategic visual communications.
• Experience designing data-driven dashboards and interactive visual products.
• Knowledge of accessibility best practices and digital content compliance standards.
• Experience supporting communications strategy, outreach, branding, and change management initiatives.
• Portfolio demonstrating strong visual storytelling, information design, and technical communications capabilities.

• Location: Columbia
• Type: Contract
• Job #4089

Position:  Systems Administrator- Linux / Social Media Services Administrator
Location: Annapolis Junction, MD
Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Polygraph
Pay Range: $170K – $200K

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense, in partnership with our military, intelligence, and civil government customers, supports U.S. operations worldwide through advanced intelligence, satellite, and cyber technologies. Our Intelligence Sector provides support and solutions for information collection, operations, exploitation, dissemination, and research activities. Our specialists focus on software development, cloud architecture, systems engineering, and network engineering across key DoD and Intelligence Community organizations.

Position Description:
We are seeking an innovative and motivated Systems Administrator (SA2) to join a small, talented Linux team supporting Social Media Services in a hybrid cloud environment. This role provides the opportunity to design architectures, develop solutions, and contribute to mission‑critical systems across multiple networks and infrastructures.

The Linux team builds, maintains, secures, and troubleshoots Linux systems across diverse environments. The ideal candidate brings hands‑on Linux administration expertise, strong scripting and automation abilities, and an eagerness to streamline processes. Experience with AWS technologies is highly desirable. The role requires creative problem‑solving, collaboration in a small team, and the ability to communicate clearly with technical stakeholders.

Primary Responsibilities:
• Build, configure, monitor, and troubleshoot Linux systems across multiple networks and architectures.
• Deploy and maintain COTS and FOSS services on Linux environments.
• Develop, debug, and implement automation solutions using Bash, Python, Puppet, Ansible, or similar tools.
• Contribute to system architecture discussions and solution design.
• Work within a small technical team to resolve issues and maintain system stability.
• Identify opportunities to automate tasks and improve efficiency.
• Communicate system issues effectively with team members and service owners.
• Support and mentor junior team members as needed.

Required Skills:
• Strong Linux administration experience (configuration, monitoring, troubleshooting, lifecycle management).
• Experience deploying COTS/FOSS applications and services on Linux systems.
• Experience creating and debugging automation scripts using Bash, Python, Puppet, and/or Ansible.
• Experience collaborating with diverse technical teams to troubleshoot issues.
• Self‑motivated, adaptable, and eager to learn new technologies.
• Strong communication skills for coordination with team members and service owners.

Desired Skills:
• Experience with AWS (EC2 Auto Scaling, cloud automation, cloud integrations).
• Experience using aws‑cli and boto3.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment and mentor junior staff.

LCAT Requirements:
• Ten (10) years of experience as a Systems Administrator supporting programs of similar scope, type, and complexity.
• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline from an accredited university.
• Substitution: Five (5) additional years of experience may replace the bachelor’s degree.
• Must comply with DoD 8570.01‑M requirements with a minimum IAT Level II certification (Security+, CCNA).

Position: Systems Administrator (SA2) – Linux / Social Media Services Administrator
Location: Annapolis Junction, MD
Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Full Scope Polygraph
Pay Range: $170K – $195K

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense, in partnership with our military, intelligence, and civil government customers, supports U.S. operations worldwide through advanced intelligence, satellite, and cyber technologies. Our Intelligence Sector provides support and solutions for information collection, operations, exploitation, dissemination, and research activities. Our specialists focus on software development, cloud architecture, systems engineering, and network engineering across key DoD and Intelligence Community organizations.

Position Description:
We are seeking an innovative and motivated Systems Administrator (SA2) to join a small, talented Linux team supporting Social Media Services in a hybrid cloud environment. This role provides the opportunity to design architectures, develop solutions, and contribute to mission‑critical systems across multiple networks and infrastructures.

The Linux team builds, maintains, secures, and troubleshoots Linux systems across diverse environments. The ideal candidate brings hands‑on Linux administration expertise, strong scripting and automation abilities, and an eagerness to streamline processes. Experience with AWS technologies is highly desirable. The role requires creative problem‑solving, collaboration in a small team, and the ability to communicate clearly with technical stakeholders.

Primary Responsibilities:
• Build, configure, monitor, and troubleshoot Linux systems across multiple networks and architectures.
• Deploy and maintain COTS and FOSS services on Linux environments.
• Develop, debug, and implement automation solutions using Bash, Python, Puppet, Ansible, or similar tools.
• Contribute to system architecture discussions and solution design.
• Work within a small technical team to resolve issues and maintain system stability.
• Identify opportunities to automate tasks and improve efficiency.
• Communicate system issues effectively with team members and service owners.
• Support and mentor junior team members as needed.

Required Skills:
• Strong Linux administration experience (configuration, monitoring, troubleshooting, lifecycle management).
• Experience deploying COTS/FOSS applications and services on Linux systems.
• Experience creating and debugging automation scripts using Bash, Python, Puppet, and/or Ansible.
• Experience collaborating with diverse technical teams to troubleshoot issues.
• Self‑motivated, adaptable, and eager to learn new technologies.
• Strong communication skills for coordination with team members and service owners.

Desired Skills:
• Experience with AWS (EC2 Auto Scaling, cloud automation, cloud integrations).
• Experience using aws‑cli and boto3.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment and mentor junior staff.

LCAT Requirements:
• Ten (10) years of experience as a Systems Administrator supporting programs of similar scope, type, and complexity.
• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline from an accredited university.
• Substitution: Five (5) additional years of experience may replace the bachelor’s degree.
• Must comply with DoD 8570.01‑M requirements with a minimum IAT Level II certification (Security+, CCNA).

• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #4084

Title: Solution Train Engineer
Location: Columbia, MD
Compensation Range: $220 -$250K
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government.  Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission.  Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation’s toughest and most secure problems.  If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don’t look any further than Cornerstone Defense.

Benefits Overview:
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *

Position Description:
The Solution Train Engineer (STE) leads the coordination, execution, and continuous improvement of a complex technical Solution Train within a large‑scale Agile and cyber‑centric Department of Defense environment. This role ensures synchronized delivery across multiple Agile Release Trains (ARTs), manages technical dependencies, supports engineering alignment, and facilitates major planning and execution events.
The ideal candidate is a hands‑on, highly engaged leader who collaborates closely with engineering teams, program leadership, vendors, and cybersecurity organizations, guiding them in Lean‑Agile and systems engineering practices while removing obstacles to successful delivery.
Core Tasks:

• Facilitate Solution Train execution and large-scale organizational ceremonies, including:
  • Facilitate Solution Train execution and lead key events, including:
  • Pre- and Post‑Program Increment (PI) Planning
  • Solution Demos
  • Inspect & Adapt events
  • Value Stream Syncs
  • Cross‑train planning and coordination sessions
• Manage and optimize value flow through the Solution Train using enterprise tools such as Jira and Confluence.
• Coordinate architectural alignment, technical interdependencies, capabilities, and integration activities across multiple ARTs and technical suppliers.
• Facilitate collaboration among engineering leads, PMO representatives, vendors, and external cybersecurity organizations.
• Identify, track, and resolve cross‑team impediments, risks, issues, and dependencies.
• Monitor Solution Train delivery performance and provide clear progress reporting, risk visibility, and dependency tracking.
• Develop and maintain documentation related to system interdependencies, requirements, architectural decisions, risks, and delivery status.
• Support alignment of technical strategy, solution intent, architecture, and implementation activities.
• Promote transparency and effective information flow across teams, suppliers, and leadership.
• Actively engage with teams to understand needs, coordinate support, and resolve issues.
• Guide, mentor, and coach RTES, Scrum Masters, technical leads, and Agile leaders in Lean‑Agile systems engineering practices.
• Drive continuous improvement by supporting retrospectives and implementing actionable improvements.
• Ensure Agile practices are appropriately adapted for a complex, cyber‑focused DoD program.
• Partner with leadership to ensure delivery aligns with contractual, technical, security, and mission objectives.
• Demonstrate familiarity with systems engineering lifecycle, baseline management, and requirements traceability.
• Support Lean‑Agile transformation and SAFe implementation activities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 18 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree, or 15 years with a Master’s in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, Mathematics, or a related discipline, or 20 years of experience with a high school diploma
• Experience developing products or managing engineering activities in software, systems, or technical environments.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating complex technical programs across multiple ARTs or engineering organizations.
• Strong understanding of Agile at scale, especially SAFe, within a cyber‑centric DoD environment.
• Experience supporting DoD contracts, military programs, or government technology initiatives.
• Background in cybersecurity, cyber operations, or information assurance.
• Experience facilitating large‑scale planning, synchronization, and continuous improvement events.
• Proficiency with Jira, Confluence, and other enterprise collaboration tools.
• Strong communication, facilitation, organization, and stakeholder‑management capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively with engineering teams, PMO, leadership, vendors, and cybersecurity groups.
• Demonstrated ownership, engagement, and ability to drive issues to resolution.

Required Certifications:

• Candidates must hold at least one:

1. SAFe Solution Train Engineer (STE)
2. SAFe Release Train Engineer (RTE)
3. SAFe Practice Consultant (SPC)

Core Competencies:

• Solution Train leadership and facilitation
• Lean‑Agile and SAFe implementation
• Systems engineering and technical integration
• Cross‑program dependency management
• Cybersecurity and DoD program execution
• Stakeholder collaboration and communication
• Risk, issue, and impediment management
• Technical documentation and reporting
• Coaching, mentoring, and organizational leadership
• Ownership, initiative, and hands‑on engagement

• Location: Columbia
• Type: Contract
• Job #4033

Title: SETA AI Engineer
Location: Columbia, MD
Compensation Range: $220 -$250K
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government.  Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission.  Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation’s toughest and most secure problems.  If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don’t look any further than Cornerstone Defense.

Benefits Overview:
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *

Position Description:
Seeking an AI Engineer to provide technical advisory support for the design, evaluation, and advancement of AI-enabled applications, tools, and workflows. This role is intended for a hands-on technical professional who understands how modern AI systems are built and can help guide teams developing practical solutions using large language models, agentic workflows, orchestration frameworks, and supporting software infrastructure.

Core Tasks:

• Provide SETA technical advisory support to government teams designing, developing, evaluating, and integrating AI‑enabled applications, tools, and workflows.
• Assess and advise on solutions involving large language models, retrieval‑augmented generation, prompt pipelines, agentic systems, orchestration layers, and evaluation harnesses to ensure mission suitability.
• Review architectures, development approaches, model usage patterns, and technical risks; deliver engineering recommendations, prototypes, guidance, and technical briefs for government stakeholders.
• Evaluate modern AI frameworks, agentic libraries, experimentation harnesses, vector databases, embeddings, inference pipelines, and cloud‑based AI environments for suitability in mission applications
• Support test and evaluation activities including performance analysis, qualitative assessments, workflow validation, and guardrail reviews.
• Advise on AI engineering considerations such as latency, reliability, observability, testability, secure development, data flow, system integration, and operational constraints in government environments.
• Collaborate with platform engineers, mission users, product leads, and leadership to ensure AI solutions are technically grounded, mission‑aligned, and operationally relevant.
• Translate complex technical concepts into clear communication for government audiences, including tradeoff analysis, risk identification, emerging trends, and engineering implications.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of the rapidly evolving AI ecosystem; provide continuous recommendations on emerging tools, practices, frameworks, and development patterns.
• Support development of knowledge repositories, engineering documentation, evaluation artifacts, and AI assurance products.

Qualifications

• Minimum 18 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree, or 15 years with a Master’s in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, Mathematics, or a related discipline.
• Experience designing, building, integrating, or evaluating AI/ML‑enabled applications or software tools.
• Familiarity with LLM‑based applications, RAG, prompt engineering, agentic workflows, orchestration frameworks, and modern AI application patterns.
• Working knowledge of frameworks such as LangChain, LangGraph, Semantic Kernel, AutoGen, CrewAI, Haystack, LlamaIndex, or similar ecosystems.
• Experience with software development fundamentals including APIs, data handling, and system integration.
• Ability to assess technical tradeoffs and communicate them effectively to technical and government stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred:

• Experience with Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, or similar languages used in AI development.
• Familiarity with vector databases, embeddings, model APIs, evaluation frameworks, and agent testing harnesses.
• Exposure to model hosting, inference pipelines, or cloud‑based AI development environments.
• Understanding of secure AI development practices and data protection requirements in government settings.
• Experience supporting defense, cyber, intelligence, or mission‑focused development.
• Familiarity with human‑in‑the‑loop workflows, AI assurance, and evaluation methodologies.

• Location: Columbia
• Type: Contract
• Job #4032

Title: Senior Systems Engineer
Location: Columbia, MD
Compensation Range: $190 -$220K
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government.  Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission.  Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation’s toughest and most secure problems.  If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don’t look any further than Cornerstone Defense.

Benefits Overview:
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *

Position Description:
Seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to provide strategic systems engineering, technical governance, and enterprise integration support to PAE JCWA (Joint Cyber Warfare Architecture). This highly visible SETA position serves as a trusted advisor to leadership, supporting architecture development, systems engineering governance, Agile execution, and cross-functional coordination across JCWA programs. The role requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, process discipline, and exceptional communication skills to support complex systems-of-systems development within a DoD environment.

Core Tasks:

• Provide strategic systems engineering, technical governance, and enterprise integration support across JCWA programs, serving as a trusted advisor to senior leadership.
• Collaborate with architecture and engineering teams to develop JCWA Systems Engineering documentation, Reference Designs, and governance artifacts including Charters, SOPs, MFRs, Systems Engineering Plans, ADRs, and Technical Needs.
• Lead enterprise architecture governance, systems integration efforts, and decision‑making processes while maintaining awareness of DoD and Army policies impacting engineering activities.
• Facilitate and coordinate large‑scale SAFe PI Planning events involving 900+ personnel across multiple ARTs; develop planning materials, communication guides, AARs, lessons learned, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Build automated workflows, dashboards, and reporting capabilities using Confluence and Jira to enhance transparency, requirements traceability, and operational effectiveness.
• Support maturation of the JCWA Lean Agile Center of Excellence (LACE) and identify opportunities for process improvement, automation, and standardization.
• Coordinate Priority Operational Needs across Agile Release Trains to ensure alignment with operational and organizational priorities; collaborate with PMOs, Service Cyber Components, mission partners, and technical organizations.
• Lead and support Functional Area Requirements Working Groups, improving governance, stakeholder transparency, and requirements management processes.
• Develop executive‑level dashboards and reporting products demonstrating compliance, performance, and progress toward JCWA priorities.
• Engage routinely with senior military and civilian leaders, communicating risks, issues, mission impacts, and technical recommendations.
• Produce strategic communications that articulate JCWA capabilities, accomplishments, operational outcomes, and mission value for executive audiences.
• Maintain situational awareness of key JCWA issues, dependencies, risks, and provide timely recommendations, briefs, and governance documentation.
• Manage knowledge repositories and enterprise collaboration resources using expert‑level Confluence and Jira integrations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 15 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering Science, Engineering Management, or related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience supporting DoD environments and defense contracting organizations.
• Proven experience applying systems engineering principles to complex systems‑of‑systems and enterprise‑scale programs.
• Experience supporting large organizations (200–2,000 personnel) with complex technical, operational, and governance structures.
• Expert-level proficiency with Atlassian Confluence and Jira, including dashboards, automation, requirements management, and enterprise collaboration.
• Deep understanding of SAFe, Agile Release Trains, and Program Increment Planning.
• Experience developing governance frameworks, technical documentation, SOPs, MFRs, ADRs, and systems engineering artifacts.
• Strong understanding of DoD acquisition policies, lifecycle processes, and the Adaptive Acquisition Framework.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, capable of distilling complex technical concepts for executive audiences.
• Experience supporting USCYBERCOM, cyber mission programs, enterprise architecture initiatives, or large modernization efforts.
• Experience with Mattermost and Confluence.

Preferred:

• SAFe certification or formal SAFe training.
• CISSP certification preferred but not required

• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #4031

Title: Networking and Internet Product Manager
Location: Columbia, MD
Compensation Range: $200 -$230K
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government.  Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission.  Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation’s toughest and most secure problems.  If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don’t look any further than Cornerstone Defense.

Benefits Overview:
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *

Position Description:
Seeking a Networking and Internet Product Manager to define and communicate the product vision and roadmap for cyber mission systems, with a focus on cloud networking and internet connectivity, in support of OCO.

Core Tasks:

• Define and communicate the product vision and roadmap for cyber mission systems with a focus on cloud networking and internet connectivity supporting OCO operations.
• Provide thought leadership and collaborate with key stakeholders to understand requirements, strengthen partnerships, and deliver highly reliable and redundant network connectivity solutions.
• Lead product backlog refinement, ensuring features for cloud networking platforms are clearly defined, prioritized, and broken down into actionable user stories.
• Work alongside Product Managers, Release Train Engineers, and Scrum Masters to drive PI execution, mitigate risks, and ensure effective cross-team collaboration.
• Engage with Joint Cyber Weapons stakeholders, USCYBERCOM, NSA, Services, and CCMDs to gather insights and align networking capability delivery.
• Participate in TEMs, operational working groups, and additional OCO networking-focused forums.
• Partner with clients to understand business objectives, user behaviors, and product goals; develop product concepts, roadmaps, test plans, and functional specifications for cloud networking solutions.
• Collaborate with engineers and designers to conceptualize, design, and deliver multi-platform applications emphasizing robust, secure connectivity.
• Lead engagements alongside company partners and senior technologists.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree, 10 years with a Master’s, or 16 years with a High School Diploma or Associate’s degree, with significant experience in virtualization and containerization.
• Degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering Science, Engineering Management, or related discipline. MBA or similar advanced degree is a plus.
• Experience working with government agencies or contractors in the intelligence or defense sectors highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of cloud networking principles, including high-reliability and redundant internet connectivity.
• Experience with networking technologies (firewalls, load balancers, VPNs).
• Strong leadership, communication, and analytical abilities. Familiarity with Agile methodologies, cloud services, and Atlassian tools such as Jira and Confluence.
• Experience developing products and/or managing in a development environment, including implementing product strategies aligned to the OCO PMO’s vision, developing roadmaps, and prioritizing cloud networking features.
• Skilled in stakeholder engagement, documentation, and maintaining strong communication channels within and across teams.
• Hands-on approach with strong ownership and constant engagement; able to mentor junior product managers and collaborate with leadership and technical teams to shape product requirements.

Preferred:

• SAFe Product Owner/Product Manager or similar Agile certifications desirable.
• AWS Certified Advanced Networking, Cisco CCNP, or similar networking certifications highly desirable.
• CompTIA Network+ certification.

• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #4030

Title: Virtualization Product Manager
Location: Columbia, MD
Compensation Range: $200 -$230K
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government.  Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission.  Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation’s toughest and most secure problems.  If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don’t look any further than Cornerstone Defense.

Benefits Overview:
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *

Position Description:
Seeking a Virtualization Product Manager to define and communicate the product vision and roadmap for cyber mission systems, with a focus on virtualization and containerization technologies, in support of OCO.

Core Tasks:

• Define and communicate the product vision and roadmap for cyber mission systems focused on virtualization and containerization technologies in support of OCO.
• Provide thought leadership while collaborating with key stakeholders to understand requirements, build partnerships, and deliver technology solutions for virtualized and containerized environments.
• Lead product backlog refinement, ensuring that features and capabilities are clearly defined, prioritized, and broken down into actionable user stories.
• Work closely with Product Managers, Release Train Engineers, and Scrum Masters to drive PI execution, mitigate risk, and strengthen cross-team collaboration.
• Engage with Joint Cyber Weapons stakeholders, USCYBERCOM, NSA, Services, and CCMDs to gather feedback and align capability delivery.
• Participate in TEMs, operational working groups, and other OCO-related forums related to virtualization and containerization.
• Partner with clients to understand business objectives, user behavior, and product vision; develop product concepts, roadmaps, test plans, and functional specifications.
• Collaborate with designers and engineers to conceptualize, design, and deliver multi-platform applications for virtualized and containerized environments.
• Lead engagements alongside company partners and top technologists in the industry.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree, 10 years with a Master’s, or 16 years with a High School Diploma or Associate’s degree, with significant experience in virtualization and containerization.
• Degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering Science, Engineering Management, or related discipline. MBA or similar advanced degree is a plus.
• SAFe Product Owner/Product Manager or similar Agile certifications desirable. VMware VCP, Kubernetes CKA, or similar technical certifications highly desirable.
• Experience with government agencies or contractors in the intelligence or defense sectors highly preferred.
• Deep knowledge of virtualization technologies such as vSphere and vCenter, including orchestration of virtual machine deployment and management.
• Familiarity with containerization technologies such as Kubernetes and shared service mesh concepts including Keycloak, MinIO, and Vault.
• Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills. Proven experience with Agile methodologies, cloud services, building enterprise-grade products, and product development from concept to launch.
• Proficiency with Agile tools such as Jira and Confluence.
• Experience developing products or managing within a development environment, including building product strategies aligned to OCO PMO vision, developing roadmaps, and prioritizing features.
• Skilled at stakeholder engagement, documentation, and active collaboration across teams.
• Hands-on approach with strong ownership and continuous engagement with key stakeholders and team members. Experience mentoring junior product managers.
• Training in installing, configuring, and managing VMware vSphere.
• In-depth training in administering Kubernetes clusters, including deployment, scaling, and management of containerized applications.
• Training with NATS.io for scalable and resilient distributed systems.
• Training demonstrating expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a best‑in‑class cybersecurity program.

• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #3997

Position: ServiceNow Administrator/ Developer
Location: Annapolis Junction, MD
Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Polygraph
Pay Range: 170- 195K

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense, in partnership with our military, intelligence, and civil government customers, supports U.S. operations worldwide through advanced intelligence, satellite, and cyber technologies. Our Intelligence Sector provides support and solutions for information collection, operations, exploitation, dissemination, and research activities. Our specialists focus on software development, cloud architecture, systems engineering, and network engineering across key DoD and Intelligence Community organizations.

The job duties are as follows:
Join a team designing architecture and developing solutions that support organizational needs. We are seeking an innovative, motivated professional to contribute to a highly skilled team operating in a hybrid cloud environment. The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on technical experience; AWS experience is a plus. We value a collaborative team environment and a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Requirements:
Ten (10) years experience as SA in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required. Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline from an accredited college or university is required. Five (5) years of additional SA experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree. Compliance with DOD 8570.01-M with a minimum certification of IAT Level II. (CCNA – SECURITY; GICSP; GSEC; Security +; SSCP)

Job Responsibilities:

• Install, configure, troubleshoot, upgrade, and maintain self-hosted ServiceNow implementations.
• Create custom workflows
• Build service requests to meet business and technical requirements.
• Develop views and reports as needed.
• Implement integrations and process automation using ServiceNow Orchestration.
• Perform system, integration, and Section 508 compliance testing.
• Monitor application health, usage, and compliance.
• Assess current ServiceNow usage and recommend enhancements to improve efficiency.
• Develop scripts to automate routine tasks.
• Train and mentor junior team members.

Required Skills:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a ServiceNow Administrator/Developer.
• Linux/UNIX system troubleshooting experience.
• Development experience with JavaScript or other high-level programming languages.
• Familiarity with web-based user interfaces (HTML, XML, CSS).
• Experience creating and maintaining technical documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor junior team members.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Desired Skills:

• Experience managing a self-hosted ServiceNow instance, including performing required upgrades to core ServiceNow applications.
• Java development experience.
• Experience reviewing processes and implementing efficiencies.
• ServiceNow certifications are a plus (e.g., Administrator, Developer).

• Location: Columbia
• Type: Contract
• Job #3996

Position: Security Tools Integration Specialist
Location: Annapolis Junction, MD
Clearance: Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply
Pay Range: 200 – 220K

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense, in partnership with our military, intelligence, and civil government customers, supports U.S. operations worldwide through the use of many different types of intelligence, satellite, and cyber technologies. Cornerstone’s Intelligence Sector provides solutions to the United States Government for information collection, operations, exploitation and dissemination, and research activities. Our Team specializes in software development, cloud architecture, systems and network engineering, systems integration, agile management, as well as targeting operations and intelligence analysis. Our support to our mission customers includes cyber network operations, exploitation and defense, signals intelligence, human intelligence, and critical missions and networks.

Position Description:

We are seeking a highly motivated Security Tools Integration Specialist to join a small, agile cybersecurity team. This role is responsible for the deployment, integration, maintenance, and optimization of security tools that support continuous monitoring and compliance efforts. The ideal candidate is technically strong, self-driven, and comfortable working both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements:
Fourteen (14) years experience as a SE in programs and contracts of similar scope, type and complexity is required. Bachelor's degree in System Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering Science, Engineering Management, or related discipline from an accredited college or university is required. Five (5) years of additional SE experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree. Certifications: Compliance with DoD 8570.01-M with a minimum certification of IAM Level I (SEC+)

Key Responsibilities: 

• Install, configure, integrate, and maintain security tools across Linux-based environments
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to system performance, tool functionality, and integrations
• Support the continuous monitoring phase of the RMF (Risk Management Framework) lifecycle
• Ensure systems are configured, patched, and hardened in accordance with RMF compliance requirements
• Operate and maintain security assessment and continuous monitoring tools
• Analyze system and security data to identify vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and potential threats
• Collaborate with team members to improve tool integration, automation, and operational efficiency
• Document configurations, processes, and procedures to support operational consistency and compliance
• Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders regarding system status and issues

Required Skills:

• Hands-on experience with Linux systems administration
• Proven experience installing, troubleshooting, monitoring, and maintaining software systems
• Experience supporting continuous monitoring within the RMF lifecycle
• Configuring, patching, and securing systems to meet RMF compliance standards
• Utilizing security assessment and continuous monitoring tools
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a small team environment
• Self-motivated with strong time management and organizational skills

Desired Skills:

• Experience with scripting and automation using:
• Python
• PowerShell
• Familiarity with security and data tools such as:
• Tenable (Nessus Manager & Security Center)
• Splunk Enterprise
• Apache NiFi
• SNORT / Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS)
• Experience with cloud environments, particularly:
• AWS (S3, EC2)

• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #3995

Position: Systems Administrator 
Location: Annapolis Junction, MD
Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Polygraph
Pay Range: 170- 195K

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense, in partnership with our military, intelligence, and civil government customers, supports U.S. operations worldwide through advanced intelligence, satellite, and cyber technologies. Our Intelligence Sector provides support and solutions for information collection, operations, exploitation, dissemination, and research activities. Our specialists focus on software development, cloud architecture, systems engineering, and network engineering across key DoD and Intelligence Community organizations.

The job duties are as follows:
Work in an environment where you can help design the architecture and develop solutions to meet organizational needs. Looking for an innovative, and motivated individual to join a small, talented, and hardworking Linux team in a hybrid cloud environment. This team creates, maintains, and troubleshoots Linux instances on multiple networks, in multiple architectures.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on Linux administration and scripting automation experience with knowledge of AWS Cloud technologies is a plus. Candidate must work well in a small team setting, have a desire to automate processes where possible, and a willingness to think outside the box to find solutions.

Requirements:
Ten (10) years experience as a SA in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required. Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline from an accredited college or university is required. Five (5) years of additional SA experience may be substituted for a bachelor’s degree. Certifications: Compliance with DoD 8570.01-M with a minimum certification of IAT Level II (SEC+, CCNA)

Required Skills:

• Strong Linux administration experience including configuring, patching, monitoring, troubleshooting, etc.
• Experience working with diverse teams to troubleshoot and resolve issues
• Experience creating, debugging, and implementing Bash, Python, Puppet, and/or Ansible automation scripts
• Ability to work in a team and mentor junior staff
• Self-motivated and willing to learn new technologies
• Ability to communicate issues with team members and/or service owners

Desired Skills:

• Experience with AWS, specifically EC2 Auto Scaling
• Experience with aws-cli and boto3

• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #3994

Title: Web Developer
Location: Annapolis Junction, Maryland
Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Polygraph
Pay Range: 125 -140K

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense, in partnership with our military, intelligence, and civil government customers, supports U.S. operations worldwide through the use of satellite, launch, and cyber technologies. Cornerstone’s Cyber Sector develops and supports solutions for computer network operations, including exploitation, defense, signals intelligence, and information technology missions. Supported organizations include the National Security Agency, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), Aberdeen Proving Ground, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and several commercial entities.

You will join a small, hardworking development team building and supporting enterprise web-based services deployed in AWS. This is an entry-level role with close mentorship, clearly scoped tasks, and an emphasis on learning good engineering habits.

Requirements:

No demonstrated experience is required. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related discipline from an accredited college or university is required. Four (4) years of SWE experience on projects with similar software processes may be substituted for a bachelor's degree. Compliance with DOD 8570.01 with a minimum certification of IAM Level I. (CAP, GSLC, Security +)

Responsibilities:

• Implement well-defined features and bug fixes with guidance (tickets, acceptance criteria, and code review support).
• Learn the team’s codebase, development workflow, and deployment process while contributing to an enterprise web services platform.
• Assist with maintaining and troubleshooting web applications in AWS (monitoring basic health, reviewing logs, and escalating issues when needed).

Required skills:

Professional work, academic, or personal-project experience (samples will be required for academic and personal projects) with one or more of the following:

– PHP
– Net C#
– Java
– Node.js
– Python
– HTML
– CSS
– JavaScript
– Vue.js
– React

• Comfort working in Linux environments (basic command line, files, permissions), or willingness to learn quickly.

Desired skills:

• Exposure to relational databases (MariaDB, MS SQL, MySQL, or Oracle) and basic SQL concepts.
• Exposure to web servers/app servers such as Nginx, Apache, and/or Tomcat.
• Interest in troubleshooting and debugging (ability to reproduce issues, read logs, and ask good questions).
• Ability to work on a team, accepting feedback, and communicating status clearly.
• Self-motivated learner who can follow documentation and complete assigned tasks with support.
• Professional communication skills (written and verbal).
• Strong desire to learn and grow as a software engineer through mentorship and code reviews.
• Exposure to AWS or Azure concepts (e.g., compute, storage, networking) is a plus.
• Exposure to scripting (PowerShell and/or Python) is helpful.
• Interest in working in an Agile environment (standups, sprint planning, retrospectives).

• Location: Columbia, Maryland
• Type: Contract
• Job #3993

Title: Web Developer
Location: Annapolis Junction, Maryland
Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Polygraph
Pay Range: 190 – 210K

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense, in partnership with our military, intelligence, and civil government customers, supports U.S. operations worldwide through the use of satellite, launch, and cyber technologies. Cornerstone’s Cyber Sector develops and supports solutions for computer network operations, including exploitation, defense, signals intelligence, and information technology missions. Supported organizations include the National Security Agency, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), Aberdeen Proving Ground, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and several commercial entities.

You will contribute as a core engineer on a small team delivering enterprise web services deployed in AWS. This mid-level role expects you to take ownership of features end-to-end, contribute to design decisions, and improve reliability and maintainability across multiple applications.
 

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement features across the stack (API, UI, and data layer) with limited supervision; write clear technical approaches when needed.
• Own services in production, deploy, monitor, troubleshoot incidents, and drive root-cause fixes to improve reliability.
• Contribute to system architecture and technical direction (tradeoffs, scalability, security), and participate actively in code reviews.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to refine requirements, estimate work, and deliver iteratively in an Agile environment.

Required skills:

Professional work experience with one or more of the following:

– PHP
– .Net C#
– Java
– Node.js
– Python
– HTML
– CSS
– JavaScript
– Vue.js
– React

• Experience deploying and operating software on Linux (service configuration, logs, basic networking, automation).
• Solid understanding of APIs, authentication/authorization basics, and secure coding practices.
• Working knowledge of relational databases and performance basics (indexes, query tuning at a practical level).

Desired skills:

• Hands-on AWS experience (IAM, EC2, ALB, S3, RDS, CloudWatch) and/or Azure equivalents.
• Experience with Nginx/Apache/Tomcat configuration and performance tuning.
• Scripting/automation with PowerShell and/or Python; familiarity with CI/CD pipelines.
• Experience supporting production services and participating in on-call/incident response.

• Location: Columbia
• Type: Contract
• Job #3989

Position: Database Administrator
Location: Annapolis Junction, MD
Clearance: Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply
Pay Range: 170- 200K

Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense, in partnership with our military, intelligence, and civil government customers, supports U.S. operations worldwide through the use of many different types of intelligence, satellite, and cyber technologies. Cornerstone’s Intelligence Sector provides solutions to the United States Government for information collection, operations, exploitation and dissemination, and research activities. Our Team specializes in software development, cloud architecture, systems and network engineering, systems integration, agile management, as well as targeting operations and intelligence analysis. Our support to our mission customers includes cyber network operations, exploitation and defense, signals intelligence, human intelligence, and critical missions and networks.

Position Description:

Looking for a self-motivated individual that wants to learn new skills as well as contribute to the growth and maturity of the processes used to support and maintain databases by a small, talented, and hardworking database administration team. This team creates, maintains, and troubleshoots Microsoft SQL Server and MariaDB databases on multiple networks using multiple architectures. The environment consists of databases hosted both in on-premise datacenters and in cloud environments.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience creating, maintaining, patching and troubleshooting issues related to Microsoft SQL Server databases, knowledge of AWS Cloud technologies, works well in a small team setting, has a desire to automate processes where possible, and a willingness to think outside the box to find solutions.

Requirements:
Ten (10) years experience as a DBA in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required. Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline from an accredited college or university is required. Four (4) years of additional DBA experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree. Compliance with DOD 8570.01-M with a minimum certification of IAT Level II. (CCNA – SECURITY, GICSP, GSEC, Security +, SSCP)

Required Skills:

• Demonstrable experience supporting MS SQL, MariaDB, and/or Oracle databases
• Experience with index and performance management
• Experience troubleshooting issues with instances and applications
• Experience with backup and recovery processes
• Ability to with diverse teams in support of a common mission
• Effective communications skills

Desired Skills:

• Knowledge of AWS services, specifically RDS
• Experience with PowerShell/Python scripting to automate repetitive tasks
• Exposure to Commvault backup solutions
• Knowledge of SQL Server AlwaysOn
• Knowledge of Windows Event Log Filtering
• Knowledge of Windows Task Scheduler Setup and Management