Enterprise Network Architect; Secret Clearance Required

Position: Enterprise Network Architect (Secret Clearance Required)
Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking an Enterprise Network Architect to lead the design, automation, and implementation of secure, scalable, and high-performance enterprise network solutions. This is a long-term opportunity and is hybrid, with on-site work in Alexandria, VA as needed.

This position requires an active Secret clearance

Responsibilities for the Enterprise Architect include:

• Engage with clients to understand business requirements and translate them into tailored network architecture solutions

• Assess existing infrastructure for optimization opportunities in scalability, resiliency, and security

• Design, document, and present end-to-end enterprise network architectures across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments

• Lead implementation efforts and ensure deployments align with design specifications and best practices

• Drive adoption of network automation, infrastructure-as-code (IaC), and orchestration frameworks (e.g., Ansible, Terraform, Python)

• Develop and maintain automated configuration management and CI/CD pipelines for network deployments

• Standardize network architectures and create reusable templates to streamline deployments

• Collaborate with internal teams, vendors, and partners to deliver integrated solutions aligned with client outcomes

• Provide mentorship and technical leadership on automation tools and emerging technologies

• Research and evaluate technologies such as SDN, SASE, Zero Trust, NFV, and cloud-native networking

• Serve as a trusted advisor during technical discussions and architecture reviews

• Troubleshoot complex network and automation issues, driving root cause analysis and resolution

Required Qualifications for the Enterprise Architect include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related field (preferred)

• 7+ years of experience in network architecture or engineering

• Proven experience designing and implementing enterprise-grade network infrastructures (on-premises, cloud, hybrid)

• Strong knowledge of networking protocols and technologies (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, QoS, VPNs, SD-WAN)

• Expertise in network security design (firewalls, segmentation, access control)

• Hands‑on experience with automation tools (Ansible, Python, Terraform, Net Box, Nornir, REST APIs)

• Experience integrating automation into CI/CD processes

• Familiarity with cloud networking (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and hybrid connectivity

• Exposure to SDN, SASE, Zero Trust, and microsegmentation

• Strong documentation, presentation, and communication skills

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Certifications:

• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or equivalent (required)

• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) or equivalent (preferred)

• Network automation or Dev Net certifications (e.g., Cisco Dev Net Professional) a plus

Preferred

Skills:

• Experience with infrastructure-as-code and Dev Ops methodologies

• Familiarity with monitoring and telemetry tools (Prometheus, Grafana, Splunk, Cisco Thousand Eyes)

• Understanding of containerized networking (Docker, Kubernetes, CNI plugins)

• Ability to lead architecture discussions and influence technology strategy

• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and project management skills

Compensation:

$160,,000 annual salary, depending on experience

Full benefits: medical/dental/vision, 401k, PTO, paid holidays, sick leave as required by law

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