Product Operations Engineer

Bridge Defense is hiring a full-time Product Operations Engineer to support the deployment, day-to-day operation, and ongoing improvement of FarSpan on government networks, including classified environments. The role includes hands-on last-mile delivery and high-side support, along with translating operational learnings into actionable product updates.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the high-side product request queue, including deployments, configuration changes, data transfers, access requests, and health checks.
• Execute requests using written runbooks, confirm successful completion, and document results before closing each request.
• Monitor deployed software and provide a daily system status report.
• Escalate unexpected behavior, system issues, and other concerns that require timely attention.
• Maintain runbooks and update procedures when documented steps do not match the operating environment.
• Determine when a request falls outside documented procedures and seek guidance before proceeding.
• Maintain an improvement backlog that captures recurring tasks, inefficient processes, and workarounds.
• Capture operational context and potential approaches to resolve or automate recurring issues.
• Partner with the product team to prioritize and execute improvements.
• Participate in product standups to understand development priorities and contribute operational insight.
• Identify environmental constraints early and explain when proposed changes may not work in the deployed environment.
• Create clear tickets and reports that help the development team understand and address operational gaps.

Required Qualifications

• Experience writing code and the ability to read a script and explain its function (professional software engineering experience is not required).
• Ability to follow documented procedures precisely and identify when instructions need correction.
• Ability to produce clear, accurate tickets, reports, and procedural documentation.
• Ability to navigate modern software and perform standard technical tasks involving files, processes, networks, and permissions.
• Ability to perform hands-on technical work in secure government environments.
• Ability to follow documented procedures, maintain accurate records, and promptly escalate issues.
• Ability to travel when needed up to 10%.
• Depending on project requirements, willingness to work within a compressed schedule; overtime should be expected when schedules demand it.
• Ability to sit/stand at a desk for long periods and lift 20 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to multi-task and rapidly change priorities with limited notice.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience operating on DoD or Intelligence Community networks, including SIPR, JWICS, or similar environments.
• Military communications or information technology experience.
• Familiarity with terminal-based work, including navigating Linux systems and reviewing log files.
• Help desk, systems administration, or operations center experience.
• Experience using Bash, Python, or PowerShell to automate routine tasks.
• Exposure to Kubernetes, containers, or continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD).
• Experience using Palantir Foundry or similar platforms.

Technologies

• Bash, Python, PowerShell
• Linux
• Kubernetes
• CI/CD, CI, CD
• Palantir Foundry
• SIPR, JWICS

Location and Travel

This role is onsite in Washington, DC, with daily work in a secure facility. Travel up to 10% may be required, potentially including occasional trips to Tampa, Florida.

Security Clearance

Active Secret required; TS/SCI preferred. Clearance sponsorship is not available for this position.

Compensation

Salary range: $90,000 to $125,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, education, security clearance, and certifications.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401(k)
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Life insurance
• Disability coverage

Work Authorization and Contingencies

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of applicable background investigations, verification of employment eligibility, customer approval, and maintenance of the required security clearance.