Kafka Data Engineer

Role Overview

We need a Data Engineer experienced in upgrading and maintaining Kafka clusters in Kubernetes on AWS, including use of Kafka Schema Registry and Kafka Security Manager. This role will design, develop, deploy and mentor in a fast‑paced agile environment, overseeing scalable platforms for clients.

• Upgrade and maintain Kafka clusters in Kubernetes on AWS.
• Design, develop and deploy Kafka clusters in cloud environments.
• Utilize Kafka Schema Registry and Kafka Security Manager for schema evolution and security.
• Create data partitioning strategies and monitor topics for performance.
• Configure observability platforms such as Elastic or Datadog to ensure high availability, low latency, and alerting.
• Guide and mentor data engineers, developers, and data consumers in a fast‑paced, agile environment.

• Experience with Kafka.
• Experience creating data partitioning strategies and monitoring topics for performance.
• Experience deploying and upgrading Kafka clusters in high‑availability containerized environments.
• Experience utilizing observability platforms such as Elastic or Datadog.
• Knowledge of stream processing pipelines and analytics.
• Secret clearance.
• HS diploma or GED.

• Experience with Apache NiFi.
• Experience with multi‑cluster or containerized environments.
• Experience scripting in Bash or Python.
• Experience deploying and maintaining applications aligned to DoD Security Technical Implementation Guidelines (STIG) and Security Requirements Guides (SRG).
• Experience writing playbooks and scripts for automation tools, including Terraform, Ansible, or Puppet for Infrastructure as Code (IaC) and Configuration as Code (CaC).
• Knowledge of cybersecurity concepts, including threats, vulnerabilities, security operations, encryption, boundary defense, auditing, authentication, and supply chain risk management.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• DoD 8570 IAT Level II Certification such as Security+, CCNA Security, or GSEC Certification.

The projected annualized salary range for this position is $77,600.00 to $ (USD).

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.