Network Engineer

Network Engineer

CGI Federal is seeking a Network Engineer to support the design, configuration, monitoring, and sustainment of network infrastructure essential to a Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) program for the US Army. This role ensures reliable, secure, and high-performance network operations across complex Defense environments. The Network Engineer installs and configures network devices, conducts system upgrades and maintenance, monitors performance metrics, and resolves network issues in coordination with IT teams and vendors. This position plays a critical role in maintaining the network backbone that enables mission-critical systems to operate securely and efficiently. This position is located in Huntsville, AL.

Network Operations & Performance Monitoring: Monitor network performance to ensure availability, reliability, and optimal throughput. Track system resource utilization, performance trends, and capacity needs. Provide proactive recommendations for network enhancements or scaling. Network Configuration & Installation: Configure and install network devices and services (routers, switches, firewalls, VPN, load balancers, QoS). Deploy and integrate new hardware and network infrastructure components. Support implementation of secure network architectures and segmentation strategies. Maintenance & System Upgrades: Perform routine network maintenance, including patches, service packs, hot fixes, and firmware upgrades. Apply security configurations in accordance with Defense and organizational requirements. Verify compatibility and functionality after upgrades or changes. Configuration & Change Management: Adhere to established configuration management policies for network changes. Ensure all network updates are documented, approved, and communicated. Participate in change reviews, network planning sessions, and architecture discussions. Troubleshooting & Problem Resolution: Diagnose and resolve network issues, outages, and performance bottlenecks. Liaise with hardware/software vendors, service providers, and internal IT teams for issue resolution. Conduct root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions. Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate network diagrams, device inventories, and configuration records. Document procedures, installation steps, and maintenance actions. Support audit requirements, cybersecurity inspections, and compliance activities.

Education: BA/BS degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related computer field. Substitution options: – One academic year of accredited coursework in a related degree may substitute for one year of experience – Three additional years of relevant experience may substitute for the degree requirement. Experience: 4+ years of experience as a network engineer in a Defense environment. Hands-on experience configuring routers, switches, firewalls, VPN, and load-balancing technologies. Experience supporting secure and complex enterprise or tactical network architectures. Technical Skills: Strong proficiency in network protocols, routing, switching, and security configurations. Experience with network monitoring tools, diagnostic utilities, and performance measurement. Familiarity with configuration/change management processes and documentation standards. Ability to apply patches, updates, and security controls to networked systems. Abilities & Working Style: Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for complex network issues. Ability to work collaboratively with IT teams, vendors, and system administrators. Effective communication skills and capability to document technical processes clearly. Desired qualifications/non-essential skills required: Advanced Networking Skills: Experience supporting tactical networks, C5ISR systems, or Defense fielded systems. Knowledge of encryption devices, secure tunneling protocols, or cross-domain solutions. Tools & Technologies: Experience using enterprise monitoring tools (SolarWinds, Splunk, LogicMonitor, etc.). Familiarity with virtual networking, hypervisors, or cloud-connected Defense networks. Certifications: Cisco certifications (CCNA, CCNP). DoD 8570/8140 certifications (Security+, Network+, CySA+, etc.). Network security certifications (e.g., CCNA Security). Additional Skills: Ability to create or update network diagrams and architectural documentation. Experience supporting cybersecurity inspections or RMF (Risk Management Framework) requirements. Knowledge of automation tools or scripting for network tasks (Python, Ansible).