• Systems Engineer, Staff Principal

    BigBear.ai (Columbia, MD)


    Overview

     

    Make an Impact Where It Matters Most

     

    At BigBear.ai, we’re solving some of the most complex challenges in national security and intelligence. We’re looking for a Level 3 IT Engineer who thrives in dynamic environments and is passionate about building, maintaining, and optimizing mission-critical systems. If you're ready to lead innovative projects, shape future architectures, and work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry—this is your opportunity.

     

    What you will do

     

    As a senior IT Engineer, you’ll play a key role in designing, implementing, and maintaining advanced IT systems. You’ll work independently and collaboratively to:

     

    + Architect and enhance complex IT systems that support national security missions.

    + Lead and contribute to large-scale projects, from planning to execution.

    + Troubleshoot and resolve issues across hardware, software, and network layers.

    + Recommend and integrate emerging technologies to improve system performance and security.

    + Develop documentation, training materials, and technical briefs for stakeholders.

    + Collaborate across teams to ensure seamless integration and high system availability.

    + Provide strategic input on system upgrades, security protocols, and infrastructure improvements.

     

    What you need to have

     

    + Active TS/SCI with Polygraph (required)

    + 12+ years of experience in IT engineering roles supporting federal programs

    + (A Master’s degree may substitute for 2 years of experience; no degree requires 16 years of experience)

    + Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a related field

    + Proven experience with system architecture, performance tuning, and troubleshooting

    + Strong communication skills and the ability to interface with all levels of an organization

     

    What we'd like you to have

     

    Bonus Points For

     

    + Deep familiarity with NSA IT infrastructure and networks

    + Experience leading cross-functional teams and mentoring junior engineers

    + A passion for innovation and continuous improvement

     

    Why BigBear.ai?

     

    We’re not just another tech company—we’re a mission-driven organization where your work directly supports national security. At BigBear.ai, you’ll find:

     

    + A collaborative, high-impact environment

    + Opportunities for professional growth and leadership

    + A culture that values innovation, integrity, and excellence

     

    About BigBear.ai

     

    BigBear.ai is a leading provider of AI-powered decision intelligence solutions for national security, supply chain management, and digital identity. Customers and partners rely on Bigbear.ai’s predictive analytics capabilities in highly complex, distributed, mission-based operating environments. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, BigBear.ai is a public company traded on the NYSE under the symbol BBAI. For more information, visit https://bigbear.ai/ and follow BigBear.ai on LinkedIn: @BigBear.ai and X: @BigBearai.

     

    BigBear.ai is an Equal opportunity employer all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.