Lead Systems Engineer Location: Canberra, ACT (On‑premises only)
Security: Australian Citizen – NV2 clearance
Employment Type: Permanent
About the Role We are seeking a senior, foundational Systems Engineer to take ownership of the architecture, security, and operational integrity of core Linux‑based platform environments operating in highly secure environments. This role acts as the technical authority for Linux platform design and security posture, setting standards that underpin all mission‑critical workloads, including those running on Kubernetes. The focus is on platform architecture, hardening, compliance, and lifecycle ownership, rather than application delivery. Work in close partnership with the Lead Kubernetes Platform Engineer to ensure platform and container environments operate as a cohesive, secure system. This role is ideal for a seasoned engineer seeking ownership, influence, and the opportunity to shape a high‑security technology environment from the ground up.
Key Responsibilities Platform Architecture & Ownership
Own the design and evolution of secure Linux server environments supporting mission‑critical platforms
Define and enforce platform architecture standards, including OS baselines, configuration patterns, and lifecycle management
Act as the senior technical authority for system design decisions in high‑security, on‑prem environments
Security & Compliance
Lead system hardening and security controls aligned with the Essential Eight
Establish, maintain, and audit secure configurations, patching regimes, privileged access controls, and backup strategies
Ensure platforms are defensible, auditable, and compliant with defence‑aligned security expectations
Identity & Access (Collaborative)
Design and support identity and access patterns for Linux platforms
Collaborate with Windows and Active Directory specialists where required
Ensure secure, supportable integration between identity services and platform components
Operations & Reliability
Provide senior oversight of system lifecycle activities: build, test, release, patching, and decommissioning
Lead troubleshooting of complex platform incidents and provide technical direction during high‑impact events
Own standards for documentation, change control, and operational readiness
Leadership & Partnership
Mentor engineers and set expectations for engineering quality and operational discipline
Partner closely with the Kubernetes platform function to ensure cohesive platform operations
Provide trusted technical advice to leadership and key stakeholders
About You Essential Experience
Extensive experience designing and operating Linux‑based platforms in secure, on‑prem or regulated environments
Strong background in system architecture, security hardening, and infrastructure lifecycle management
Proven leadership in environments where availability, security, and reliability are non‑negotiable
Strong scripting capability (e.g. Bash, Python)
Nice to Have
Exposure to Windows and Active Directory environments
Familiarity with identity integration across modern platforms and containerised environments
Experience working alongside Kubernetes or platform engineering teams
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