Network Engineer

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Network Engineer to join a federal cybersecurity and infrastructure operations program supporting the Department of Energy (DOE) and National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). This position will support mission‑critical network infrastructure operations, security, optimization, and modernization initiatives across multiple federal environments.

Location:

Manassas, VA – Onsite

Clearance Requirement
:
Active DOE Q Clearance OR Top Secret Clearance required

• Install, configure, maintain, and optimize LAN/WAN infrastructure including routers, switches, VPN appliances, load balancers, and security devices
• Ensure timely application of security patches and updates across network infrastructure devices including voice, video, and security systems
• Monitor and analyze network performance utilizing enterprise network management tools and implement optimization improvements
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex network outages and infrastructure issues affecting voice, video, and data services
• Maintain accurate inventory management of network hardware and software assets
• Provide technical recommendations and support during engineering and infrastructure planning meetings
• Support data center network infrastructure operations, virtualization systems, and infrastructure expansion projects
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to troubleshoot technical issues and escalate when necessary
• Implement and enforce network security protocols to prevent unauthorized access, malware, and security threats
• Assist with backup and disaster recovery planning and implementation efforts
• Serve as a primary point of contact for client technical inquiries and issue resolution
• Lead or support infrastructure and network‑related projects while ensuring adherence to timelines and operational objectives
• Prepare detailed reports related to network performance, incidents, upgrades, and infrastructure status

• Active DOE Q Clearance OR Top Secret Clearance required
• Strong experience configuring and managing Cisco routers and switches (IOS/NX‑OS)
• Experience supporting Palo Alto Next Gen Firewalls and VPN configurations
• Experience with General Dynamics Taclanes and/or GEMOne preferred
• Strong technical proficiency with Windows and Unix/Linux operating systems
• Experience with network security, network traffic analysis, packet analysis, vulnerability analysis, incident response, and systems hardening
• Strong understanding of Layer 2 switching and Layer 3 routing protocols
• Knowledge of encryption and communication protocols including TLS/SSL, IPsec, SSH, BGP, VLAN, LLDP, LACP, ARP, 802.1x, DNS, AES, and NTP
• Experience supporting secure and complex LAN/WAN infrastructures
• Strong customer service and communication skills with the ability to interpret and respond to client needs effectively
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously within prescribed timelines

Compensation: $120,000 - $150,000+ based on years of experience

Full Benefits:
Cigna Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, PTO/Holiday, Sick leave as required by state law

• Long‑term stable federal program supporting national security initiatives
• Opportunity to support advanced cybersecurity and secure communications environments
• Collaborative engineering environment with growth opportunities in network security and infrastructure operations