Principal Network Engineer

Job Title: Principal Network Engineer Location: Plano, TX Job Type: Contract-To-Hire Salary Range: $125K – $150K Position Overview We are seeking a senior-level Principal Network Engineer to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of enterprise networking solutions across hybrid cloud and on‑premise environments. This role will serve as a technical leader for critical infrastructure initiatives, driving architectural reviews, cloud networking strategy, automation, and high‑level escalation support. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise across Cisco networking technologies, AWS networking, infrastructure automation, and network security, along with strong communication skills to engage effectively with both technical teams and executive leadership. Duties & Responsibilities Lead the design and implementation of enterprise network architecture across data center and cloud environments Drive strategic infrastructure initiatives, architectural reviews, and complex network transformation projects Engineer and support Cisco‑based environments including Catalyst, Nexus, ACI, Meraki, and ISE platforms Design and maintain AWS networking solutions including VPCs, Transit Gateway, Direct Connect, VPNs, and hybrid connectivity Develop automation and infrastructure‑as‑code solutions using Python, Terraform, Ansible, and related tools Provide Tier 4 escalation support for critical outages and complex networking issues Collaborate cross‑functionally with Cloud, Security, Infrastructure, and Application teams Participate in project planning, status meetings, and executive‑level discussions while providing technical guidance and recommendations Create and maintain network standards, documentation, and future‑state architecture diagrams Mentor engineers and provide leadership on networking best practices and operational improvements Required Experience & Skills 8–10+ years of enterprise networking experience in complex environments Deep hands‑on experience with Cisco networking technologies including Routing & Switching, Nexus, ACI, Meraki, and ISE Strong expertise in AWS networking and hybrid cloud infrastructure Experience with Python scripting and infrastructure automation tools such as Terraform and Ansible Strong understanding of Layer 2/3 networking, network security, authentication, and segmentation technologies including 802.1X Experience supporting both traditional data center and modern cloud‑native networking environments Excellent troubleshooting, communication, and stakeholder management skills Ability to lead technical discussions, conduct discovery sessions, and communicate effectively with leadership teams Nice to Have Experience Cisco certifications such as CCNP or CCIE AWS Advanced Networking certification Experience with SD‑WAN, SASE, or Zero Trust architectures Background in network security and identity/access management solutions Additional Details This is a highly collaborative, onsite role requiring regular interaction with technical teams and business leadership Candidates must be comfortable operating in a project‑driven environment while also supporting critical infrastructure needs as required Employment Eligibility Gravity cannot transfer nor sponsor a work visa for this position. Applicants must be eligible to work in the U.S. for any employer directly (we are not open to contract or “corp to corp” agreements). Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Gravity IT Resources is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr