Software Engineering / DevOps
Summary
A Master's thesis DevOps internship at Smartex in Porto: designing a secure, automated wireless credential key-rotation system for large-scale IoT deployments using Salt and HashiCorp Vault, with zero-disruption SSID switching and secure credential storage and auditing.
Master’s Thesis in DevOps – Scalable and Secure Key Rotation for IoT Systems
Porto, Portugal
What we’re looking for
The DevOps team at Smartex builds and operates the infrastructure powering innovative solutions for the textile industry. We are a diverse, international, and mission-driven company focused on reliable, scalable, and secure systems with real-world impact. We are looking for a highly motivated DevOps Intern (Master’s Thesis) to join our team. You will work with experienced engineers on cloud infrastructure, automation, and system reliability in an industrial context. This is a great opportunity to grow in DevOps, infrastructure, and distributed systems in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities
- Design a secure architecture integrating Salt and HashiCorp Vault for wireless credential management.
- Eliminate static wireless keys by implementing automated and periodic key rotation.
- Ensure zero service disruption during credential updates through the use of a temporary SSID.
- Enable IoT devices to dynamically switch between multiple SSIDs based on lifecycle stage and rotation events.
- Implement secure bootstrap mechanisms.
- Guarantee secure storage, access control, and auditing of credentials using Vault.
- Validate system resilience against common threats (e.g., credential leakage, unauthorized access).
- Deliver a scalable and reproducible solution suitable for large-scale IoT deployments.
Skills & Experience
- Currently enrolled in a Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Solid foundations in software development and/or DevOps practices.
- Basic understanding of networking concepts and wireless systems.
- Familiarity with infrastructure automation and configuration management (e.g. Salt, Ansible, or similar).
- Interest in security, distributed systems, and IoT environments.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work with complex, real-world datasets.
- Ability to work independently and in a collaborative, cross-functional environment.
- Good communication skills in English.
Opportunity to learn in a dynamic and fast-paced work environment.
Receive meal allowance for internship-related meal expenses.
Freedom & Autonomy
Freedom to provide and execute new ideas out of the scope.
Launch your Career
Kick-start your career with us, gaining valuable skills & experience.
Diverse and Talented Team
Work with an inspiring, multicultural, and talented team.
Impact on the World
Contribute to making a significant impact and shaping the future of the industry.
Hybrid Work
Flexibility to work both remotely and at the office.
Enjoy a range of office perks, including snacks, coffee, and other amenities.
Pet Friendly
Bring your furry friend to work and enjoy a pet-friendly environment.