Lead Network Engineer

Network Engineer (Contract-to-Hire)

Location: On-site
Engagement: 6-month contract-to-hire
Compensation Range: $100,000–$115,000 (annualized)
Availability: On-call rotation and occasional weekend support

We are hiring an experienced Network Engineer to support and enhance a multi-site enterprise network environment. This individual will play a key role in maintaining network reliability, strengthening security posture, and serving as the primary technical owner for network operations. The ideal candidate brings hands‑on engineering experience, strong troubleshooting skills, and the confidence to take accountability for decisions, processes, and outcomes.

• Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot enterprise network infrastructure, including switching, routing, wireless, and VPN technologies

• Serve as the technical owner for network operations, proactively improving procedures, documentation, and standards

• Collaborate with internal teams such as systems administrators, enterprise IT, and service desk staff to ensure seamless network support

• Manage network security operations in partnership with external vendors, including investigation and remediation of security events

• Monitor network performance and availability using enterprise monitoring platforms

• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date network diagrams and documentation

• Coordinate with service providers and third‑party partners to resolve connectivity, firewall, and infrastructure issues

• Participate in on‑call rotations and provide after‑hours support as required

• Hands‑on experience managing Cisco‑based network environments, including enterprise switches and wireless infrastructure

• Proficiency with centralized network management platforms used to administer Cisco networking and security devices

• Strong experience configuring and troubleshooting VPN connectivity and remote access solutions

• Working knowledge of network monitoring and observability tools, including node management, alerting, IP addressing, logging, and topology mapping

• Experience supporting identity‑based network access control, including device and user authentication and authorization

• Practical experience with 802.1X authentication and related troubleshooting

• Ability to analyze and respond to network security alerts in coordination with a managed SIEM/SOC provider

• Experience working with firewall platforms and external security vendors to address configuration changes and security posture improvements

• Comfortable managing relationships with internet service providers and telecommunications partners across multiple locations

• 4+ years of professional experience in a Network Engineer role

• Strong CLI‑based experience configuring switches and routers

• Proven ability to work independently, make informed decisions, and take ownership of network responsibilities

• Experience operating in a transparent, direct, and collaborative work environment

• Bachelor’s degree not required

• Opportunity to take real ownership of network operations rather than follow rigid, pre‑defined processes

• Direct exposure to security operations, vendor management, and enterprise‑scale networking

• Collaborative environment with high trust, accountability, and straightforward communication

• Strong path to full‑time employment following contract period