Freelance Python Network Programming Jobs in California

Sigma Defense is seeking a Network Engineer IV to support our team in San Diego, CA.

The Network Engineer delivers advanced afloat C4ISR network engineering, integration, and sustainment for the Navy's carrier training tactical system - a ruggedized component of the CANES architecture used across Fleet units. The role ensures reliable tactical data transport, system interoperability, and secure network performance during Fleet training events and readiness exercises. The engineer supports NIWC Pacific and shipboard ITs by maintaining, configuring, troubleshooting, and modernizing Network hardware and software baselines. Position at the intersection of fleet training and afloat network readiness, the role provides hands-on technical leadership and direct support to operations units preparing for deployment.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled: Sigma Defense Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Requirements

• 3 - 5 years of network engineering experience.
• Strong network engineering and troubleshooting skills.
• Familiarity with Navy tactical networks and enclaves (NIPR/SIPR/CANES).
• Ability to operate across shipboard, NIWC, and TYCOM stakeholders.
• Clear and effective communication with shipboard ITs and leadership.
• Ability to support occasional underway periods or pier side testing.
• Experience with automation development, scripting, or infrastructure-as-code (e.g. Ansible, Python) is preferred.
• Familiarity with DevSecOps principles and Zero Trust architectures is preferred.

• Must be a U.S. citizen.

Candidate Differentiators:

• Previous experience supporting CANES, ADNS, Carrier Training Units, Fleet training, or afloat training.
• Experience with automation, CI/CD pipelines, testing frameworks, or DevSecOps toolchains.
• Programming or scripting experience to include Python, Bash and or PowerShell.

Mandatory Certifications:

• DoD 8570 IAT Level II (Security +)
• CCNA/CCNP

Computer Programs/Software:

• Linux (RHEL)
• Windows Server
• Cisco IOS/NX-OS
• Juniper JUNOS
• Virtualization (VMware ESXi)

Personnel Clearance Level:

• Candidate must possess or have the ability to obtain an active Secret security clearance or higher.
• Clearance may be sponsored for the right candidate.
• Candidate must hold an active Secret clearance to begin work.
• A TS/SCI clearance level is preferred but not required.

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Network Engineering, Computer Science, or related field of study.

Essential Job Duties (not all-inclusive):

• Network Engineering & System Sustainment:
• Maintain, configure, and troubleshoot carrier training tactical hardware and associated network components.
• Perform system updates, patching, baseline management, and configuration control.
• Support virtualization, enclave routing, cross domain interfaces, and tactical data paths.
• Afloat Integration & Technical Support:
• Provide direct technical support to shipboard ITs during Fleet training evolutions.
• Conduct pier side and underway testing of Carrier Training Units.
• Validate system readiness prior to major Fleet exercises and deployment workups.
• Cybersecurity & Compliance:
• Support RMF artifacts, STIG application, HBSS/ACAS compliance, and vulnerability remediation.
• Ensure Carrier Training Units meet Navy cybersecurity and accreditation requirements.
• Support Zero Trust-aligned hardening and secure configuration practices.
• System Testing & Evaluation:
• Execute functional and performance tests, regression tests, and interoperability assessments.
• Document findings, track anomalies, and recommend corrective actions.
• Support automated test development where feasible.
• Program Integration & Coordination:
• Coordinate with NIWC engineers, shipboard personnel, and TYCOM/Fleet stakeholders.
• Align system updates with fleet schedules, maintenance windows, and CANES baselines.
• Documentation & Reporting:
• Produce technical reports, configuration documentation, and system status updates.
• Provide clear recommendations to leadership on system risks, readiness, and modernization needs.

Salary Range: $125,000 - 145,000 annually.

Benefits

• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Medical Insurance to Include HSA, FSA, and DFSA Plans
• Life and AD&D coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401(k) Plan with Company Matching Contributions
• 160 Hours of Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 12 (Floating) Holidays
• Educational Assistance
• Highly Competitive Salary