Lead Network Engineer - CONUS Jobs

Senior Network EngineerAt ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our success starts and ends with our people, so we built a company where great people can do great things, with the resources and autonomy to make decisions that transform organizations. We operate as one team of diverse people, united by a passion for continuous growth and optimization. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation.The Senior Network Engineer serves as a key technical leader supporting the Defense Health Agency (DHA) mission, ensuring the performance, security, and reliability of enterprise LAN/WLAN/WAN infrastructure across CONUS and global medical treatment facilities.Serve as the primary network subject matter expert (SME) and global point of contact for network operations, troubleshooting, and configuration managementDesign, implement, configure, and maintain complex LAN/WLAN/WAN environments supporting DHA systemsDiagnose and resolve advanced network issues across all layers of the OSI model using tools such as SolarWinds, ARMIS, and AnsibleLead network engineering efforts, collaborating with government stakeholders, contractors, and technical teamsImplement and maintain network security solutions including firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systemsDevelop and enforce network standards, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance with DoD and DHA requirementsProvide performance tuning, optimization, and recommendations to improve network reliability and minimize downtimeSupport routing and switching protocols including BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, and enterprise-level network architecturesDocument configurations, changes, and standards; communicate status and solutions to stakeholdersActive DoD Secret clearance8+ years of supporting complex network engineering experience and a Bachelor's degree in IT, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)Must possess active CCNP and CISSP certificationsExperience supporting DoD Health Care Information Systems - highly preferredExtensive experience with enterprise network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, SNMP, etc.)Deep expertise in routing, switching, and multi-protocol network environmentsExperience with Cisco technologies, Windows networks, and Active DirectoryProficiency with network monitoring, diagnostics, and automation toolsKnowledge of network security principles and Zero Trust architecture (preferred)Experience supporting DoD healthcare systemsStrong written and verbal communication skills across technical and non-technical audiencesAbility to support multiple sites, including potential travel to CONUS/OCONUS locationsCapable of operating independently and leading complex technical initiativesActual salary will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, geographic location, contract affordability, internal equity, education, and certifications. The upper end of the salary range may be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated tenure with the company, seniority, and proven excellent performance. This includes factors such as education, certifications, and extensive/unique experience beyond what is required. ValidaTek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to verify authorization to work in the United States. Offers of employment will be contingent upon passing a post-offer background check.