Principal Network Engineer

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Job Description # Principal Network Engineer Apply
** Job#: 3057671
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* Job Description:

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* * Candidates must be U.S. citizens able to obtain and/or maintain a Department of Defense security clearance as a condition and continuation of employment.
* MUST BE ABLE TO OBTAIN/MAINTAIN A DOD SECRET CLEARANCE Principal Network Engineer
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* Location:

** Rosslyn, Virginia (Hybrid)

Role Overview This is a hands-on network engineering role focused on designing and deploying networks from the ground up to support a United States Air Force initiative. This position requires an individual with technical project management skills, strong communication abilities, and the ability to work effectively within a team. The role involves designing network architectures, creating detailed diagrams, conducting site surveys, and performing installations in a dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities
* Design and implement complex, scalable network solutions from scratch based on customer requirements.
* Create and maintain detailed network architecture documentation, diagrams, and configuration records.
* Conduct site surveys to gather requirements, identify constraints, and plan network deployments.
* Lead troubleshooting efforts for complex network issues, identify root causes, and implement long-term solutions.
* Coordinate with vendors and internal teams to procure and integrate network hardware and software.
* Participate in onsite installations, including physical network setup such as fiber cabling and Layer 1 connectivity.
* Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure network solutions meet organizational goals and security requirements.
* Provide mentorship and technical leadership to junior network engineers.

Required Qualifications
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* Education:

** A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is required.
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* Experience:

*** 5+ years of hands-on experience in network engineering, with proven experience in a leadership or principal engineer role.
* Demonstrated experience designing, implementing, and optimizing large-scale network infrastructures.
* Expertise in routing, switching, VPNs, firewalls, and load balancing.
* Hands-on experience with Layer 1 infrastructure, including fiber cabling and physical network installation.
** Technical

Skills:

*** Deep understanding of networking protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF, MPLS), TCP/IP, DNS, and HTTP.
* Experience with network automation and scripting using tools like Ansible, Python, or similar.
* Familiarity with containerization technologies such as Docker.
* Experience with Cisco networking technologies, including Cisco SDN, as well as Linux environments (Rocky Linux, RHEL).
* Knowledge of network security tools and techniques (e.g., firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs).
* Experience with cloud networking concepts and integration (AWS, Azure).
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* Certifications:

*** CompTIA Security+ certification is required.
* Core Network Certifications (e.g., CCNP, CCIE, JNCIP) or equivalent experience.

Preferred Qualifications
* A Master’s degree or equivalent experience.
* Cybersecurity certifications such as CISSP or CEH.
* Cloud or Virtualization certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, VCP, or CCSP.
* Experience with pf Sense.
** Compensation & Benefits
** The anticipated pay range for this position is $70.00/hr to $90.00/hr please note that the final pay rate will be determined based on a variety of factors, including the candidate's experience, qualifications, and the specific requirements of the role.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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