Nakupuna Consulting is looking for an Amazon Web Services (AWS) Operations Engineer. The Amazon Web Services (AWS) Operations Engineer is primarily responsible for operations within an AWS GovCloud and Microsoft Windows Server 2022 environment. This role will provide support and expertise for the management and administration of a general commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) systems that encompasses the customer's Case Management System.  In addition, the AWS Operations Engineer ensures compliance of current and planned system architectures to prevent any adverse impact on the Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN) security posture. 

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign additional duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

• Responsible for performing regular operational tasks in the AWS Console including creating new Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2) instances, debugging connectivity, provisioning users, managing credentials, configuring backup policies, and reviewing logs.
• Responsible for configuring and managing EC2 management tools like AWS Config, Systems Manager, and Patch Manager.
• Responsible for writing and configuring AWS Lambda functions to automate operational processes.
• Support security and operational implementations with AWS-native technologies.
• Propose and formalize cases for use of new AWS technologies
• Support DevSecOps implementation and team integration including automated testing, release pipelines, automated deployment, with AWS CodePipeline and its related components.
• Supports migration to serverless AWS offerings with the goal of reducing operational footprint on EC2 instances.
• Provides technical support and troubleshooting assistance.
• Responsible for building, optimizing, and management of Windows 2022 servers in an AWS GovCloud environment.
• Responsible for system security hardening per DoD Security and Technical Implementation Guidelines (STIG) and providing required security documentation.
• Provide STIG guidance and assist in configuring computer and network devices.
• Supports Information Assurance Vulnerability Alert (IAVA) patching requirements for servers and systems.
• Develop and maintain documentation including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Assists with weekly and monthly reporting on environment and maintenance activities.
• Provide weekly data audit, reconciliation, and reporting.
• Perform upgrades to server operating systems and applications.
• Assist technicians to maintain existing AWS Gov Cloud installation.
• Recommend changes through data analysis.
• Conduct compliance reporting.
• Provide programmatic support including coordination, scheduling, budget tracking, and oversight of AWS infrastructure initiatives to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
• Reconcile Microsoft Active Directory (AD), Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), Assured Compliance Assessment Solution (ACAS), and Trellix Endpoint Security Services.

Skills/Qualifications: 

• Excellent technical, organizational, decision-making, analytical, and planning skills. 
• Effective communicator who takes initiative and the ability to adapt to dynamic environments. 
• In addition, the following technical skills are needed:
  • Experience with design and development of high availability virtual platforms.
  • In-depth performance monitoring of virtual system(s).
  • Must excel at system documentation, to include in-depth system configuration, topology, and development of standard operating procedures.

Education/Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical major from an accredited institution as well as a minimum of (4) four years of relevant professional experience. 
• Equivalent years of related work or military experience in lieu of degree will also be considered. 

Certification:

• Required: Active IAT II Certification (CCNA Security, CSA+, GICSP, GSEC, Security+ CE, SSCP). One or more certification in Windows / Microsoft operating system (OS).
• Nice to have: Amazon Web Services (AWS) certification

Clearance Requirements: Must currently have at least a Top-Secret level security clearance. Must be a U.S. citizen.

Work Locations: Client site is located in Crystal City Virginia.  This role requires four days per week onsite.  Travel to Honolulu, Hawaii or the continental United States may be required approximately one week per year.

Physical Requirements: The ideal candidate must at a minimum be able to meet the following physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation: 

• Ability to perform repetitive motions with the hands, wrists, and fingers. 
• Ability to engage in and follow audible communications in emergency situations. 
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer.