Network Engineer Contract Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Description

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA or Huntsville, AL, or Remote

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role in San Luis Obispo, CA is $203,000 to $276,000 and for Huntsville, AL is $186,000 to $252,000 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.

Redwire Defense Tech is seeking a highly skilled Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead – Network and Cyber Security to lead the design, configuration, and integration of secure, high-performance compute r platforms, networking and communications systems for uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and their supporting infrastructure. This role is responsible for network configuration, including communication across radio and satellite communications (Satcom) systems, data transport, and cybersecurity. The IPT Lead will oversee a cross-functional engineering team, ensuring seamless and secure communication across all mission-critical platforms.

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

• Communication System integration and configuration efforts, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility with UAS mission profiles.

• Develop and implement network configurations for secure, resilient, and scalable UAS communications.

• Manage satellite communications (Satcom) system integration, optimizing connectivity for global operations.

• Define data transport and compression strategies, ensuring efficient, real-time transmission of critical telemetry, video, and control data.

• Implement cybersecurity best practices, ensuring compliance with DoD security frameworks (NIST, RMF, NSA CSfC, etc.) and protecting systems from cyber threats.

• Collaborate with systems, software, RF, and IT security engineers to integrate secure communications across airborne and ground-based systems.

• Conduct hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), system-integration labs (SIL), and flight tests to validate communication system performance.

• Work with Program Management Organization (PMO), military customers, and stakeholders to define network and cybersecurity requirements for future product development.

• Ensure documentation of network architectures, security protocols, and system configurations for configuration management, compliance and sustainment.
• Implement, monitor, and maintain cyber security controls in accordance with approved security plans and procedures.
• Perform routine security monitoring, log review, and vulnerability scanning; track and support remediation activities.
• Execute patching, configuration updates, and system hardening activities.
• Assist with incident response activities, including initial investigation, containment actions, and documentation.
• Contribute to improvement of IS and cybersecurity procedures, checklists, and documentation.
• Provide formal guidance to team members to ensure the team has the required skills to accomplish overall team objectives.
• Implement processes to ensure team deliverables are met in a timely and consistent manner.
• Take ownership of the team’s deliverables to support ongoing contracts and product development commitments.
• Assumes all other responsibilities as assigned.

· Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Cyber Security, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field or equivalent experience.

· 10+ years of experience in networking, communications, or cybersecurity engineering, preferably in aerospace, defense, or UAS industries.

· Relevant cybersecurity certifications (CISSP, Security+, CEH, or equivalent) are a plus.

· Experience designing and implementing secure network configurations for UAS, GCS, and Satcom connectivity.

· Deep understanding of data transport, compression techniques, and optimizing bandwidth for real-time telemetry and video streaming.

· Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices, threat mitigation, and compliance with defense security standards.

· Proficiency in TCP/IP, software-defined radios (SDRs), encryption, and secure satellite communications.

• Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams to develop and deploy secure communication architectures.

• Hands-on experience with network integration and testing for flight operations or military-grade systems.
• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities, with experience managing secure communication architectures.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with a focus on threat modeling and cyber risk mitigation.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, capable of working with engineers, program managers, and military stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented, with the ability to document security compliance efforts and technical configurations.

· Master’s degree in Engineering, or a related field is preferred.

· Prior experience in UAS, secure military communication systems, or electronic warfare (EW) systems.

· Experience supporting DoD accreditation processes for secure networking and cybersecurity implementations.

· Ability to mentor and develop junior engineers within the team.

· Adaptability to work in dynamic, high-priority environments with shifting technical challenges.

· Experience working with ruggedized computing and networking hardware for military or aerospace applications.

· Knowledge of military and defense industry standards related to ground support equipment and mission systems.

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan
• Employee Stock Purchasing Program (ESPP)

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.