Network Architect

Network Architect – VMware Broadcom vSAN InfrastructureDuration: 12 monthsLocation: Durham, NC - hybrid onsite at least 3 days per weekOnsite interview required! Local candidates are required.Position OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Network Architect to lead the enterprise-wide design and implementation of VMware Broadcom vSAN solutions across 23 manufacturing and corporate sites. This senior-level role requires deep expertise in virtualization architecture, infrastructure-as-code, and complex multi-site deployments.Key ResponsibilitiesLead end-to-end design and implementation of VMware Broadcom vSAN solutions across 23 sites, including architecture, capacity planning, resiliency, and standardizationDevelop and implement Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) solutions using Terraform for both on-premises and cloud environmentsPerform comprehensive site readiness assessments covering rack space, power, cooling, network connectivity, cabling, and deployment prerequisitesCoordinate and oversee Lenovo vSAN Ready Node deployment, including hardware receipt, racking, stacking, cabling, labeling, and inventory validationInstall, configure, and standardize Lenovo server BIOS, firmware, drivers, ESXi hosts, vCenter, and vSAN clusters per enterprise standardsConfigure and optimize vSAN storage, VMkernel networking, vMotion, distributed switches, VLANs, MTU settings, and cluster policies for performance and availabilityCollaborate with network, security, and infrastructure teams to implement DNS, NTP, firewall, certificate, monitoring, backup, and access control requirementsDevelop and execute migration strategies for transitioning workloads from legacy Nutanix and VMware environments to Lenovo vSAN infrastructureLead VM migration, application cutover, validation, and stabilization activities while minimizing business disruptionConduct health checks, performance tuning, failover testing, storage policy validation, capacity management, and operational readiness reviewsProduce architecture documentation, build guides, SOPs, migration runbooks, and provide Level 3 operational support and knowledge transferRequired Experience & Qualifications10+ years of enterprise infrastructure and virtualization architecture experience5+ years of hands-on experience with VMware vSphere, vCenter, and vSAN environmentsAdvanced expertise in Lenovo server platforms and vSAN Ready Node deploymentsDemonstrated experience with Infrastructure-as-Code (Terraform) for on-premises and cloud infrastructureStrong knowledge of Nutanix and legacy virtualization platforms for migration planningExpert-level understanding of storage architecture, performance optimization, and data protection strategiesProficiency in network configuration (VLANs, MTU, distributed switches, VMkernel networking)Experience with multi-site infrastructure coordination and standardizationRelevant certifications: VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP) or VMware Certified Professional (VCP) requiredPreferred: Terraform certification or equivalent IaC expertisePhysical RequirementsAbility to lift and carry up to 75 pounds regularlyCapable of working in data center environments with varying temperature and noise levelsComfortable with climbing ladders and working at heights for equipment installation and assessmentAbility to stand, walk, and move about the workplace for extended periods during site assessmentsWillingness to travel to manufacturing and corporate sites (estimated 30-40% travel)Willingness to perform on-call support and emergency response duties as neededPreferred SkillsExperience with VMware NSX networking and securityKnowledge of backup and disaster recovery solutionsFamiliarity with monitoring and observability tools