Network Architect

Network ArchitectThe Network Architect will lead the technical design and implementation of large-scale, global network operations and modernization contract supporting the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Technologies (DT). This role oversees 24x7 worldwide network operations, modernization activities, security integration, service management, and customer engagement across all geographic regions.WHAT YOU'LL DO:Collaborate with DT and Program Director on defining outputs, outcomes, and adoption framework for project creation and implementationLeading team providing steady-state support for current environment network operations, preparing for a modernization journeyDefine and evolve the enterprise architecture, strategy, and roadmap for network capabilities, aligning solutions with business, technology, and cybersecurity objectivesDesign secure, scalable, and automated and AI-augmented solutions for provisioning, monitoring, and operational supportEstablish governance frameworks, lifecycle controls, and operational standards for hardware, process, and procedure.Develop architecture artifacts, implementation guidance, metrics, and telemetry driven reporting that promote consistency, automation, resiliency, and operational excellence.Serve a trusted advisor, technical leader, and mentor across the program, collaborating with other senior technical leaders and mid- to junior-career staffREQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:Active TS/SCI clearanceBachelor's Degree in a related technical disciplineMinimum of 10 years' technical experienceAligned Cisco Certified Internetwork (CCIE) certificationsSecurity+ or DoD 8570 IAT Level II CertificationCertified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)Demonstrated experience with the technical leadership of large and/or complex network modernization effortsDemonstrated experience with designing and implementing network solutions incorporating load balancing, route, switch, firewalls, congestion and prioritization management, and micro segmentation.Deep understanding of and previous experience with Zero Trust Architecture, NIST frameworks, and other government standards and compliance frameworks.Deep understanding of Software-Defined Networking (SDN), SD-WAN, container networking, virtualization platforms, and other cloud focused network technologies.Previous experience with one or more industry leading vendors such as Cisco, Palo Alto, Fortinet, Juniper, HPE, Avaya, or similar.Previous experience with enterprise WiFi design and implementations, including mesh solutions.Previous experience with Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and/or Google Cloud Platform (GCP)Experience integrating workflows and automation solutions with ITSM platforms such as ServiceNowExperience with DevOps, Infrastructure as Code (IaC, Python, Git, and/or other applicable technologiesPREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :Experience working within a government enterprise environmentDemonstrated understanding of Natural Language Processing (NLP) implementation and concepts of intent-based architecturePrevious experience with low bandwidth, high latency locations and solutionsCisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) or similar vendor certification.One or more of the following Microsoft certifications: Microsoft Cybersecurity Architect Expert (SC-100), Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104), Microsoft Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305), Microsoft AI-centric professional certifications or Applied SkillsAWS Certified Advanced Networking and/or AWS Certified SecurityTechnical certifications from other industry leaders in the network or security segmentProject Management Professional (PMP)