Network Architect

Network Architect

The Network Architect designs and implements computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other ITS data communications network systems. In this role they will perform network modeling, cost analysis and planning, including (but not limited to) the analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. The Network Architect will also plan implementation designs for the construction of new networks, as well as for the removal and rearrangement of existing ones; as such, they must be familiar with validated industry designs and best practices. Further, they will develop and initiate detailed work authorization requests and draft work activities to ensure conformance with planning guidelines and specifications, requiring technical understanding in the following categories:

• Transport networks
• Cyber security controls
• Packet tracing
• Video networks
• Wireless networks
• Access networks
• Ethernet services
• Distribution facilities
• Fiber Optics

The Network Architect will closely collaborate with other members of the organization to develop the overall technology, network architecture, roadmaps, and vision. The primary objective of the Network Architect role is to develop data-driven system solutions, network security designs and enterprise level risk management strategies to support the organization's long-term plans.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and manage physical and logical resources of existing network capacity and incorporate high-level and/or detailed forecasts into meaningful network build plans.
• Manage, plan, and optimize network devices within designated planning areas
• Develop and implement planning solutions that will positively impact customer service
• Develop initiatives, quantify impact, and provide input on network architectural plans & budgets
• Formulate budget inputs and projections according to the business plan
• Work cross-functionally with the systems, project management, and network infrastructure
• Act as a networking expert and resource for peers and management.
• Prepare charts and reports on system usage, system capacity, system quality, and system performance
• Recommend appropriate courses of action to management on deployment and performance issues
• Ensure quality of deliverables
• Evolve and refine operation standards, processes, and procedures
• Apply communication performance monitoring technology to improve reliability and productivity of network data flows.
• Participate in testing and documenting
• Assist in developing communication strategies, documents, and standards for the enterprise.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree and 5+ years of networking experience
• CCNP Routing/Switching, CCNP Security or CISM/CISSP/CISA knowledge.
• Active Check Point Certified Security Master (CCSM) required
• Strong knowledge of information systems and operational processes
• Good understanding of:
• Network protocols (Ethernet, TCP/IP, SNMP, VLAN Trunking)
• Routing protocols (BGP, EIGRP, OSPF, RIP, VRRP, GLBP, HSRP, VXLAN, BGP-EPVN)
• Network technologies, and LAN technologies (STP, ARP). Cisco (IOS, NX-OS) Ruckus (FOS), Linux.
• QoS, and policy-based routing with Cisco and Ruckus equipment.
• IPSEC VPN, IDS, IPS, Web Filtering, Big IP Load Balancers, Encryption, Advanced Threat Protection techniques.
• Vulnerability Scanning experience in a 24-hour production environment.
• Familiarity with Network Performance Management systems including network & application traffic capture probes and operational tools such as Wireshark and SolarWinds
• Experience with tools in the areas of:
• Setting alert conditions and notifications, reporting, customizing dashboards
• Development of dashboards, analysis, configuring alerts and notifications, reporting
• Auditing 3000+ node networks, network standards and PCI compliance and network drawings.
• Build and run capacity analyses of simulations and bandwidth trends
• Troubleshoot network and application performance issues.
• Trace analysis, identifying problem areas, and reporting.
• Importing network objects via automation tools and manual imports.
• Troubleshoot and optimize network databases. Run weekly and monthly reports
• Diagnose and troubleshoot fiber optics signal loss and degradation
• Next Generation Routers/Switches/Firewalls/Cellular/IoT Communication Devices
• Cyber Security Frameworks (NIST, CIS, ISO/IEC 27001 and 27002)
• Experience with Cyber Security Domains:
• Assets Management - Controls Management - Configuration/Change Management - Vulnerability Management - Incident Management
• Service Continuity - Risk Management - External Dependencies - Training and Awareness - Situational Awareness
• Possess a strong desire to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Participate in both technical and non-technical discussions.
• Commitment to system functionality and user satisfaction in rapidly growing and changing environments.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and operational issues simultaneously and communicate requirements and status effectively.
• Expected to participate in on-call.
• Ability to work in a team environment.

The contractor will be expected to complete the following tasks/projects prior to the end of their 1st anniversary of employment in addition to the day-to-day responsibilities:

1. Multicast Streams
2. VXLAN
3. Active Active Firewalls for redundancy and load balancing
4. Continuing DR/BC initiatives
5. VMWare vDS Implementation
6. Next Generation Roadway – Hardware/Configuration

About our Company DataSoft Technologies is a highly recognized provider of professional IT Consulting services in the US. Founded in 1994, DataSoft Technologies, Inc. provides staff augmentation services for Information Technology and Automotive Services. Our team member benefits include:

• Paid Holidays/Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Medical/Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Short Term/Long Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• 401 (K)