Network Solutions Architect

DescriptionWe are looking for a Network Solutions Architect to shape and advance enterprise network strategies for a manufacturing environment in Bayport, Minnesota. This position works closely with operational leaders, technical teams, and enterprise architecture partners to turn business objectives into scalable, secure, and high-performing network solutions. The role is responsible for evaluating technology options, guiding architecture decisions, and producing clear documentation that supports execution, governance, and long-term planning.Responsibilities:• Partner with manufacturing stakeholders, IT teams, and enterprise architects to identify business needs and define network solutions that deliver measurable operational value.• Translate functional and technical requirements into end-to-end architecture plans, including design artifacts, impact assessments, and supporting technical documentation.• Review the current network landscape to uncover gaps, performance issues, aging infrastructure risks, and opportunities for modernization.• Lead architecture assessments for new initiatives and recommend technologies, platforms, and standards that align with enterprise direction and business priorities.• Create practical roadmaps that move network capabilities from the current environment to a targeted future state while balancing risk, cost, and scalability.• Provide technical guidance to delivery teams throughout implementation to ensure solutions adhere to architectural principles, security expectations, and design standards.• Develop reference models, architecture patterns, and governance materials that promote consistency across network solutions and infrastructure decisions.• Support lifecycle planning by advising on whether network platforms and related technologies should be maintained, upgraded, consolidated, or retired.• Analyze industry developments and vendor offerings to inform solution recommendations, investment decisions, and long-range network strategy.Requirements• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, engineering, systems analysis, or a related discipline.• At least 10 years of experience in enterprise networking, including 5 or more years in network architecture or solution design roles.• Deep knowledge of network architecture, routing and switching concepts, IP protocols, and enterprise network performance design.• Strong expertise in IP addressing, subnetting, VLAN design, and services such as DHCP and DNS.• Solid understanding of network security controls, resiliency planning, and disaster recovery design, implementation, and validation.• Hands-on familiarity with leading network technologies and platforms such as Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, Palo Alto Networks, and F5 BIG-IP.• Relevant advanced certifications such as CCNP or CCIE are strongly preferred.• Proven ability to analyze complex technical challenges, influence stakeholders, and communicate architecture decisions clearly across business and technical audiences.Job typePerm