Network Engineer

Network Engineer

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We'd love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

About the Role

The Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining secure, scalable network infrastructures across hybrid and cloud environments. This role combines deep expertise in next-generation firewalls, enterprise networking, and cloud-native architectures, with a focus on AWS networking and security integration. The position supports mission-critical systems, ensures compliance with cybersecurity frameworks, and drives innovation in network security architecture.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement secure network architectures across on-premises and AWS cloud environments

• Lead deployment and management of Palo Alto Networks' next-generation firewalls, including Juniper switches (Mist)

• Architect hybrid connectivity solutions (VPN, Direct Connect, SD-WAN)

• Apply Zero Trust principles and modern security frameworks to network design

• Collaborate with stakeholders to align network security with business and compliance requirements

• Develop automation for infrastructure provisioning using IaC tools (Terraform, CloudFormation)

• Maintain documentation, standards, and operational procedures for network environments

Core Job Duties:

• Architect, configure, and manage enterprise firewalls, DNS, routing, and switching infrastructure

• Monitor, troubleshoot, and resolve network and security incidents in production environments

• Perform firewall rule reviews, vulnerability assessments, and security audits

• Implement AWS networking services (VPC, Transit Gateway, Route 53, ELB)

• Support cloud migration and integration of enterprise applications

• Optimize network performance, scalability, and resilience

• Conduct capacity planning and infrastructure lifecycle management

• Participate in incident response and disaster recovery operations

• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend improvements

Other IT & Cybersecurity Tasks:

Certifications:

• Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE)

• Juniper Networks Certified Professional (JNCIP/JNCIS) or equivalent

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Associate or Professional) or AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty

Required Skills & Experience:

Technical Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of network protocols (BGP, OSPF, VLANs, MPLS, IPsec VPN)

• Expertise in next-generation firewall technologies (Palo Alto Networks preferred)

• Strong AWS networking experience (VPC design, hybrid connectivity, security services)

• Experience with Juniper routing/switching platforms and JunOS (Juniper Mist)

• Proficiency in network security concepts (Zero Trust, IDS/IPS, segmentation)

• Hands-on experience with automation tools (Terraform, Ansible, Python scripting)

• Familiarity with monitoring and logging tools (SIEM, NetFlow, SNMP, CloudWatch)

Cloud & Security:

• Experience designing secure cloud architectures and multi-account AWS environments

• Knowledge of compliance frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001, FedRAMP preferred)

• Understanding of threat detection, vulnerability management, and incident response

Professional Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams

• Experience mentoring engineers and leading technical initiatives

Education & Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)

• 7–10+ years of experience in network engineering, network security, or cloud networking

• 3+ years of experience in AWS cloud networking and security

• Proven experience designing and managing enterprise or large-scale network environments

Preferred Qualifications:

• Additional certifications (CISSP, CCNP/CCIE, AWS Security Specialty)

• Experience in regulated environments (government, finance, healthcare)

• Knowledge of DevSecOps practices and CI/CD integration

• Experience with SD-WAN and SASE architectures

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and architecture design

• Deep technical expertise in networking and cloud security

• Operational excellence and incident management

• Continuous learning and adaptation to emerging threats

Why Join Apex?

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

What We Offer For Full-time Employees:

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package: To reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan: With generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave: Plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks: To keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family

• Your dream desk setup: And all the tools you need to be your most productive self

• World-class Playa Vista office: With the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life