Lead Network Integration Engineer

Lead Network Integration Engineer

CyKor is a fast-growing Technology Solutions Provider to both federal and commercial clients. We attribute our continued growth to our core values, our professional team, and the valuable relationships with our clients. Our small and growing team fosters an environment in which each team member is respected, valued, and appreciated for their contributions.

The Lead Network Integration Engineer is responsible for the integration, configuration, testing, and deployment of enterprise network solutions across DOD and DoDIN environments. This role ensures solutions are properly integrated, validated in lab environments, and executed in the field without disrupting mission operations.

Mission Context

Supports federal initiatives including:

• Enterprise SD-WAN / Guardian Net Gateway
• Secure wireless and identity services (Cisco ISE)
• Automation and network orchestration
• Expansion across cutter and shore-based units

This role operates across lab staging & validation; field integration & deployment; operational sustainment & troubleshooting

Key Responsibilities

• Network Integration & Implementation
• Integrate and configure routers, switches, firewalls, and SD-WAN components
• Execute deployment plans across cutter environments (afloat constraints), shore-based units and enterprise gateways
• Ensure seamless integration with existing federal systems

• Software Defined Networking (SDN) Deployment
• Implement and support Cisco SD-WAN (vManage, vSmart, cEdge/vEdge)
• Configure policy-based and application-aware routing, secure segmentation
• Support transition from legacy WAN to SD-WAN architectures

• Lab Staging & Validation
• Build and configure systems in CyKor SD-WAN lab and federal integration environments
• Execute test plans, validation procedures, acceptance criteria
• Identify and resolve integration issues prior to field deployment

• Field Deployment & Cutover Support
• Support on-site installations and cutovers such as rack/stack, configuration, and activation
• Troubleshoot connectivity issues, failover behavior, performance degradation (latency, packet loss)
• Ensure minimal operational disruption during deployments

• Cybersecurity & Compliance
• Ensure systems comply with RMF requirements and Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) STIGs
• Perform secure configuration baselining and patch and vulnerability remediation

• Automation & Optimization
• Support automation efforts using Ansible and Python scripting
• Assist in developing configuration templates and repeatable deployment processes
• Improve efficiency and reduce manual configuration errors

• Documentation & Reporting
• Maintain configuration documentation, integration procedures, as-built diagrams
• Provide updates to PMO, Engineering leadership and field deployment teams

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Support
• Work closely with Network Architects, C5I stakeholders (NET, SEC, TWH), PMO and field teams
• Support engineering review boards and change control processes

Please Note:

This position is contingent upon contract award with an expected start date of September 16, 2026.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in IT, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 10+ years of experience in network engineering and integration within DoD, DHS, or other federal environments
• Proven experience with enterprise network deployments integration of multi-vendor solutions
• An active Secret clearance; active Top Secret clearance preferred

Strong expertise in:

• Routing & switching (BGP, OSPF)
• WAN technologies and network transport
• Cisco SD-WAN
• Cisco routing/switching platforms
• Firewalls (Cisco FTD or equivalent)
• Network troubleshooting tools
• Automation (Ansible, Python)
• Lab-based integration and validation

Required Certifications

• DoD 8570/8140 compliant:
  CompTIA Security+ (minimum)

Preferred Certifications

• Cisco CCNP (Enterprise or Security)
• CCIE (highly desired)
• Red Hat / automation certifications

Desired Qualifications

• Experience supporting DoW environments
• Familiarity with SATCOM/constrained bandwidth environments
• Cisco ISE and identity-based networking
• Experience with large-scale phased deployments (multi-site rollouts)

Key Competencies

• Strong hands-on technical execution capability
• Ability to troubleshoot complex integration issues under pressure
• Attention to detail in configuration and validation
• Effective communication with engineers and operators
• Mission-focused mindset with emphasis on reliability and uptime

Work Location/Travel

• Hybrid schedule to include some on-site locations such as lab staging environments, field deployments (cutters & shore units)
• CONUS travel required as needed; potential OCONUS
• Participation in after-hours cutovers and on-call support during critical deployments