Senior Data Engineer

Fairfax, Virginia Secret Hybrid schedule Software Engineering Services Overview GovCIO is currently hiring for a Senior Data Engineer with an active Secret clearance to serve as an on-site technical resource, responsible for developing, maintaining, and modernizing data systems across low-side and high-side enclaves. This position will be located in Merrifield, VA and will be a hybrid position. Responsibilities This role focuses on improving performance, reliability, and scalability for data-centric applications. The engineer will design and optimize data pipelines, manage enterprise databases, and lead modernization efforts using cloud-capable technologies while ensuring compliance with strict security and operational constraints. Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, maintain, and modernize low-side and high-side database environments, ensuring stability, performance, and scalability.
• Design, optimize, and troubleshoot NiFi-based data pipelines supporting high-volume mission workflows.
• Administer, tune, and support Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server databases across secure enclaves.
• Enhance backend performance for applications by improving data flows, query efficiency, and system integration.
• Support Linux and Windows server environments used for database operations, data workflows, and pipeline infrastructure.
• Apply cloud platform experience (AWS and/or Azure) to support modernization, migration, or hybrid data processing efforts as permitted by mission requirements.
• Perform on-site diagnostics, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis to resolve complex data and system issues.
• Collaborate closely with development teams, system administrators, and government stakeholders to ensure alignment with mission goals.
• Maintain thorough documentation of technical processes, data models, configurations, and workflows.
• Ensure all activities adhere to security, compliance, and data handling requirements in classified environments.

Qualifications High School with 10+ years of application development (or commensurate experience) Clearance Required: Active Secret with the ability to obtain and hold DEA suitability Required Qualifications:

• Active Secret clearance enabling access to low side and high side systems.
• Hands-on experience with Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server database administration, tuning, and optimization.
• Strong proficiency in Apache NiFi pipeline development and maintenance.
• Experience with Linux and Windows server systems in enterprise or secure environments.
• Cloud platform experience (AWS and/or Azure) supporting modernization and migration efforts.
• Experience working within a classified Government environment.
• Experience working with Government product owners and stakeholders.
• Experience working on an agile development team.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex data pipeline and database issues in secure onsite environments.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications: • Experience working with generative AI such as Claude Code, Copilot, and ChatGPT. Experience supporting mission systems or sensitive data environments within federal agencies.

• Knowledge of ETL methodologies, data modeling, and performance optimization strategies.
• Experience modernizing legacy data systems into cloud, virtualized, or containerized architectures within classified environments.
• Relevant technical certifications (Oracle DBA, MCSE, AWS/Azure certs, Linux admin certs).
• Familiarity with DevSecOps practices and CI/CD tools.
• Familiarity with secure networking, segmentation, and classified data workflows.

Posted Salary Range USD $130,000.00 - USD $190,000.00 /Yr. Company Overview GovCIO is a team of transformers--people who are passionate about transforming government IT. Every day, we make a positive impact by delivering innovative IT services and solutions that improve how government agencies operate and serve our citizens. But we can't do it alone. We need great people to help us do great things - for our customers, our culture, and our ability to attract other great people. We are changing the face of government IT and building a workforce that fuels this mission. Are you ready to be a transformer? What You Can Expect Interview & Hiring Process If you are selected to move forward through the process, here’s what you can expect: During the Interview Process Virtual video interview conducted via video with the hiring manager and/or team Camera must be on A valid photo ID must be presented during each interview During the Hiring Process Enhanced Biometrics ID verification screening Background check, to include: Criminal history (past 7 years) Verification of your highest level of education Verification of your employment history (past 7 years), based on information provided in your application Employee Perks At GovCIO, we consistently hear that meaningful work and a collaborative team environment are two of the top reasons our employees enjoy working here. In addition, our employees have access to a range of perks and benefits to support their personal and professional well-being, beyond the standard company offered health benefits, including: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Corporate Discounts Learning & Development platform, to include certification preparation content Training, Education and Certification Assistance* Referral Bonus Program Internal Mobility Program Pet Insurance Flexible Work Environment *Available to full-time employees Our employees’ unique talents and contributions are the driving force behind our success in supporting our customers, which ultimately fuels the success of our company. Join us and be a part of a culture that invests in its people and prioritizes continuous enhancement of the employee experience. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. EOE, including disability/vets. Posted Pay Range The posted pay range, if referenced, reflects the range expected for this position at the commencement of employment, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, education, experience, and internal equity. The total compensation package for this position may also include other compensation elements, to be discussed during the hiring process. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the GovCIO reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, GovCIO or individual department/team performance, and market factors. GovCIO