DevSecOps Engineers integrate software development, security, and operations to streamline workflows and enhance the security of applications throughout the entire development lifecycle. They are crucial in government projects for ensuring rapid, yet secure software deployment aligning with stringent government standards.
What does a DevSecOps Engineer do on Government Contracts?
A DevSecOps Engineer on government contracts is responsible for embedding security at every phase of the software development process. Their key responsibilities include:
- Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD): Implementing and managing CI/CD pipelines to automate testing and deployment of code changes.
- Security Integration: Incorporating security measures into the development process, including automated security testing to identify and address vulnerabilities early.
- Collaboration and Communication: Working closely with development and operations teams to foster a culture of security awareness and ensuring that security is a priority at every stage of development.
- Monitoring and Compliance: Continuously monitoring deployed applications for security issues and ensuring compliance with federal cybersecurity regulations.
- Incident Response: Developing and implementing automated strategies for quick detection, response, and remediation of security incidents.
DevSecOps Engineer Job Description
DevSecOps Engineers on government contracts are tasked with ensuring that security is a core component of the software development process. Their role involves:
- Designing secure architectures for new and existing systems.
- Automating security controls, processes, and testing to reduce the risk of security vulnerabilities.
- Enhancing existing CI/CD processes with security checkpoints to automate and streamline deployment processes.
- Conducting security assessments and code audits to detect and mitigate potential security issues.
- Collaborating with IT and cybersecurity teams to implement best security practices and respond to security incidents.
Job Requirements for a DevSecOps Engineer
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Strong background in software development and programming languages such as Python, Java, or Ruby.
- Deep understanding of cloud environments (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
- Proficiency in implementing automated security and monitoring tools.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively across various teams.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or related field.
- 3-5 years of experience in a DevSecOps role, with demonstrated skills in security automation and CI/CD workflows.
- Relevant certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), or CompTIA Security+.
WORKSPACE/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Office environment, often requiring long hours in front of computer systems.
- May require occasional travel to attend training, seminars, or conferences.
What does a typical job posting look like for a DevSecOps Engineer?
“We are seeking a skilled DevSecOps Engineer to integrate and maintain security throughout the entire software development and deployment process. You will be instrumental in building and implementing security practices that meet our government clients’ rigorous standards.”
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Develop and maintain CI/CD pipelines with integrated security measures.
- Automate security testing and compliance checks within the development lifecycle.
- Monitor systems for security breaches and effectively handle incident response and mitigation.
- Collaborate with development teams to advise on security best practices and solutions.
- Maintain documentation of security procedures and measures.
Salary Range
The salary for a DevSecOps Engineer working on government contracts typically ranges from $90,000 to $140,000 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and the complexity of the security needs.