Network Engineer

Network EngineerThe Centralized Network Operations Center (C-NOC) Network Engineer will support the Air Force in the operation and maintenance of the MQ-9 communications system, global network architectures to include the Aircraft Control Network (ACN), Sensor Product Dissemination Network (SPDN), Squadron Operations Centers (SOCs) ancillary systems, and relay site communication. The hired candidate will support all MQ-9 stakeholders including ACC, ANG, AFSOC, SOCOM, USMC, ADC, and other external agencies. The Network Engineer will be responsible for implementing, maintaining, and supporting complex network infrastructure and resolving escalated troubleshooting incidents. They will act as the final point of escalation for the C-NOC, performing root cause analysis, network planning, and ensuring high network availability.Essential Responsibilities:Architect, implement, and maintain complex network systems, encompassing LAN, WAN, VPN, and secure cloud interconnections.Analyze and troubleshoot networks across all OSI layers, identifying and resolving interdependencies to maximize performance, reliability, and security.Expertly configure and manage advanced routing protocols, including OSPF, BGP, EIGRP, and multicast routing protocols (PIM, IGMP, MSDP), ensuring optimized data distribution in diverse network topologies.Design and maintain innovative tunneling solutions using Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE), supporting secure inter-site and inter-domain communication.Integrate and apply security protocols and principles to ensure compliance with classified information systems requirements and federal mandates.Conduct network performance monitoring, diagnostics, and incident response, leveraging advanced tools and methodologies in a classified systems context.Document network designs, configurations, and operational procedures in accordance with organizational and governmental policies.Collaborate cross-functionally with security, systems engineering, application, and operations teams for robust classified solutions.Stay current with emerging networking technologies, threats, and best practices pertinent to classified and secure network engineering.Minimum Requirements:Active Top Secret Clearance with SCI eligibility (TS/SCI); must maintain clearance as a condition of employment. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in network engineering—preferably supporting federal, DoD, or Intelligence Community environments.Extensive knowledge of network layers (OSI and TCP/IP models), including detailed understanding of their interdependencies.Proven experience with advanced routing protocols, including configuration, optimization, and troubleshooting of multicast routing protocols (such as PIM, IGMP, MSDP).Demonstrated expertise in designing, configuring, and troubleshooting GRE tunneling for secure data transport across segmented networks.Proficiency with enterprise network hardware (Cisco, Juniper, etc.), firewalls, and network management/monitoring tools.Excellent analytical and communication skills; proven ability to document and convey complex network solutions and procedures.· CompTIA Security+, CCNA, or equivalent certification is required. Network+ is highly desired.Professional certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, or equivalent strongly preferred.Preferred Qualifications:Familiarity with cross-domain networking solutions and secure enclave operations.Knowledge of federal security standards (ICD 503, NIST 800-series, RMF).Experience with automation and scripting tools (Python, Ansible) for network deployment and management.Exposure to cloud networking solutions and hybrid network architectures.Compensation Details:115,000The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.Benefits Overview:Health, dental, and vision insurancePaid time off and holidaysRetirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)Educational reimbursementParental leaveEmployee stock purchase planTax-saving optionsDisability and life insurancePet insuranceNote: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.