1536 - Senior Network Engineer

Overview

Sigma Defense is seeking a Senior Network Engineer in San Diego, CA at NIWC-Pacific. The MQ-25 and Unmanned Carrier Aviation (UCA) Mission Control Systems (UMCS) program of record (POR) is managed by the UCA Program Office (PMA-268). The Navy WAN Lead will provide strategic leadership, operation, and modernization of the Navy's Automated Digital Networking System (ADNS). This role ensures secure, high-performance connectivity across fleet, shore-based, and joint force networks, enhancing the Navy's digital warfighting capabilities and real-time communications. The WAN Lead spearheads initiatives, manages system upgrades, and oversees operational readiness—maintaining secure, resilient, mission-critical communications in dynamic and contested environments.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled: Sigma Defense Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Salary

Base pay range : $130,000.00/yr - $150,000.00/yr

Responsibilities

• Oversee the modernization of ADNS/WAN in partnership with PMW 160, ensuring secure, interoperable Navy communications across shipboard, shore, and satellite platforms.
• Manage network hardware tasks, including configuring, deploying, and troubleshooting routers, switches, firewalls and satellite terminals.
• Apply project management principles and Navy CVN scheduling expertise to drive effective planning and execution, providing clear progress updates and decisive guidance.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Navy/DoD WAN operations, including ADNS, SATCOM, and tactical networking environments.
• Strong knowledge of network protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, MPLS), encryption standards, and cybersecurity frameworks.
• Proficiency with networking hardware platforms (e.g., Cisco, Juniper).
• Familiarity with DoD RMF, STIGs, and IA controls.
• Willingness to travel shipboard and shore-based (less than 15% annually) to support fleet operations exercises and testing; travel primarily underway on Naval vessels.
• Ability to work in classified, secure environments in strict adherence to Navy operational security protocols.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, or related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Relevant Certifications: Security+, CCNP, CISSP; equivalent certifications may be accepted.
• Candidate must possess or have the ability to obtain an active Secret security clearance or higher; a clearance may be sponsored for the right candidate.

Candidate Differentiators

• Experience with AI-driven network automation and SDN technologies.
• Knowledge of Navy C4ISR systems, JADC2 integration, and Joint Tactical Networks.
• Understanding of SATCOM principles and RF transmission fundamentals.

Essential Job Duties

not all-inclusive

• Technical Leadership & Systems: Oversee the modernization of ADNS/WAN in partnership with PMW 160, ensuring secure, interoperable Navy communications across shipboard, shore, and satellite platforms.
• Cybersecurity & Compliance: Enforce RMF-compliant cybersecurity standards and manage security measures such as firewalls, IDS, and ACLs; perform vulnerability assessments and remediation.
• Operations & Maintenance: Utilize monitoring tools to maintain network performance and minimize downtime; lead incident response and testing/validation of updates.
• Strategic Upgrades: Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies (e.g., AI-driven automation, SDN) to enhance network resilience and efficiency; guide modernization of ADNS CVN systems, including next-generation tactical links, 5G, satellite communications, cloud, and advanced architectures.
• Collaboration & Training: Coordinate with NAVWAR, DISA, Fleet Cyber Command; develop and deliver training programs for IT teams and interoperability testing during DT/OT events.

Benefits

• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Medical Insurance to Include HSA, FSA, and DFSA Plans
• Life and AD&D coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401(k) Plan with Company Matching Contributions
• 160 Hours of Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 12 (Floating) Holidays
• Educational Assistance
• Highly Competitive Salary

Other

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