Senior Network Engineer with Security Clearance

About the Team

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer Dr. Paul MacCready, we have been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. We are the team that developed the world's most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone. Seven of our innovative vehicles are part of the Smithsonian Institution's permanent collection in Washington, DC.

We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, welcoming all qualified applicants regardless of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other legally protected status.

About the Role

This position serves as a critical bridge between traditional enterprise networking and advanced Linux-based systems engineering. You will operate at the intersection of Cisco-style networking and deep Linux system administration, designing and supporting mission-critical infrastructure for tactical operations.

In this role, you will lead technical efforts to design end-to-end systems that integrate Linux hosts, network equipment, and security components. You will translate complex mission requirements into practical, implementable network architectures, ensuring they meet strict security and compliance standards. The work involves managing high-availability environments where reliability is paramount, supporting cellular and non-traditional communications technologies as required by the mission.

You will guide small technical teams in resolving complex network and infrastructure problems, providing direction on the operation, configuration, and optimization of network devices. A key part of your day involves developing high-quality technical documentation, including architecture diagrams and implementation plans, while utilizing automation frameworks to deploy and manage networked Linux systems.

Hiring Process & Application

Candidates must possess an active TS/SCI security clearance with a polygraph. Due to the nature of this work, this position requires access to information subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual) under these regulations. Some positions may require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

We are looking for self-starters capable of operating independently with minimal supervision. If you are ready to join a team that delivers actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty, please apply.

Benefits & Culture

AeroVironment offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and a 401K with company matching. We also offer a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings, please visit our website.

Principals only need apply. No agencies please.