Principal Network Engineer

Director Network EngineeringFleet Data Centers designs, builds and operates mega-scale data center campuses. Fleet provides its customers flexibility and predictability to meet their upside demand forecasts, addressing a key need in the market as traditional leased models are struggling to keep pace with the demand for new Cloud and AI infrastructure. Fleet is led by a team of industry veterans that have already made a lasting imprint on the evolution of global digital infrastructure and are committed and uniquely capable of upleveling data center development scale and operations in the face of rising demand.Fleet is well positioned to bring in-house design, engineering and operational capabilities to collaborate with customers on tailored solutions for campuses of 500MW+. This unique model enables Fleet to provide the world's largest and most sophisticated customers a seamless extension of their own data center fleets with constant access to design innovation. Fleet is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, with satellite offices in Seattle, WA and Arlington, VA.Position OverviewThe Director Network Engineer is responsible for the architecture, design, deployment, and operational ownership of Fleet Data Centers' corporate LAN/WAN, wireless, OT core, and physical security network infrastructure across global data center campuses. This role owns the network lifecycle from concept through commissioning and ongoing operations, ensuring secure, resilient, and scalable solutions that support Fleet's growing portfolio. The position serves as the technical authority for network architecture, deployment standards, automation, and operational escalations.Key ResponsibilitiesOwn the architecture, design, deployment, and operational lifecycle of Fleet's corporate LAN/WAN, wireless, OT core, and physical security networks across global data center campuses.Lead network planning and execution from due diligence through commissioning, including design documentation, scope definition, standards development, cost, schedule, and quality metrics, and multi-site deployments.Partner with engineering, construction, operations, vendors, and contractors to integrate network infrastructure with data center systems while ensuring compliance, quality, safety, and security requirements.Serve as the technical authority for network design decisions, risk mitigation, resiliency planning, path diversity, carrier strategy, and complex operational escalations.Drive continuous improvement through root-cause analysis, network automation, emerging technologies, and scalable design standards that support future campus growth.Basic & Preferred QualificationsBachelor's degree in Network Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, with 10+ years of network engineering experience, including 8+ years supporting mission-critical data center environments.Deep expertise in enterprise and cloud-scale networking, including BGP, OSPF, IS-IS, VXLAN, VRF, routing and switching, optical transport, and large-scale network operations.Strong experience with leading networking platforms and providers, including Cisco, Arista, Juniper, Ciena, fiber carriers, and internet service providers.Proven experience delivering large-scale, multi-region data center network deployments, including automation technologies such as Ansible, ZTP, SDN, and Infrastructure-as-Code methodologies.Preferred certifications include ACE Level 5, CCNP/CCIE, or equivalent, along with demonstrated success influencing stakeholders, defining KPIs, and supporting global regulatory and compliance requirements.Key CompetenciesStrategic leadership with the ability to balance long-term vision, technical depth, and execution across complex multi-site projects.Strong communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills, including engagement with executive leadership, vendors, and cross-functional teams.High integrity, professionalism, and emotional intelligence, with the ability to build trusted relationships and perform effectively in high-pressure environments.Adaptability and problem-solving skills, with proven success managing ambiguity, troubleshooting complex issues, and driving continuous improvement.Strong organizational and project management capabilities, including managing multiple priorities, external partners, and tight delivery timelines.Working ConditionsUp to 25% travel to data center sites across multiple regions.Ability to work in both office environments and active construction sites while adhering to all safety protocols.Expected Salary Range$185,000 - $225,000 Base Salary + Discretionary BonusFleet Data Centers employees enjoy competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including 100% employer-covered medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401K program, standard paid holidays, and unlimited PTO.Fleet Data Centers is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.