Network Engineer

Network EngineerEmerald Technical Solutions is seeking a Network Engineer to support a mission-critical defense networking environment. This is an approximately 6-month assignment with strong potential to transition into a Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) contract position as the follow-on contract is stood up. The Network Engineer will be responsible for the design, configuration, and maintenance of Cisco-based network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls, while ensuring network security compliance in accordance with DoD and DISA standards. This is a Tier 2/3 engineering role requiring deep expertise in routing, switching, VLAN management, and network security hardening.Key ResponsibilitiesNetwork Device ManagementManage, configure, and maintain Cisco networking devices including routers, switches, and firewalls to ensure optimal data flowPerform network-adjacent administration tasks on Windows-based management servers, domain controllers, and network monitoring toolsHandle comprehensive Tier 2/3 network engineering responsibilities including VLAN management, routing protocol optimization, and subnettingCybersecurity & ComplianceCollaborate closely with the ISSO to implement and maintain network-level security measures, access control lists (ACLs), and firewall rulesConduct regular patch management and firmware upgrades on routers, switches, and security appliances to eliminate vulnerabilities and maintain compliancePerform STIGs assessments on network devices and implement required security controls to harden network infrastructureConduct regular network security audits, vulnerability scans, and traffic analyses, providing detailed reports to managementNetwork Operations & ReliabilityTroubleshoot complex network routing, switching, and connectivity issues to provide rapid, definitive resolutionsEnsure high availability, redundancy, and maximum throughput performance of critical defense networks and communication pathwaysPerform deep-packet inspections and fact-finding missions to pinpoint network latency or throughput bottlenecks and engineer solutionsDocumentation & ModernizationBuild and maintain repositories of network diagrams, traffic trend analyses, configurations, and baseline data for operational continuity and archival purposesAssist with network expansion projects, hardware refreshes, and architecture modernization initiatives as assignedMonitor internal network deployment statuses to maintain operational accountability and communicate network readiness to management and stakeholdersCross-Functional IntegrationWork with systems and security teams to ensure seamless network-to-application integration and cross-team functionalityRequired QualificationsActive TS/SCI security clearanceActive IAT Level II Certification (CCNA, SSCP, CND, Security+ CE) or above; CCNA highly preferredBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field; 10 years of relevant network engineering experience may be substituted in lieu of a degreeStrong knowledge of network-attached Windows systems, including the configuration, tuning, and troubleshooting of network services (DNS, DHCP, Active Directory)Knowledge of network virtualization technologies including virtual switches, distributed switches, and networking within VMware/KVM environmentsProficiency in Linux server administration as it relates to network services, tools, and repository managementFamiliarity with DoD network security requirements, DISA guidelines, and network device STIG implementationStrong written and verbal communication skills, including ability to document complex network topologies and brief leadershipExceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail regarding network configurations and IP address management (IPAM)Strong time management and prioritization skills with the ability to meet strict deployment deadlinesStrong interpersonal skills with the ability to build effective relationships with coworkers, mission partners, and defense customersPreferred QualificationsCertified Network Defender (CND) or Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certificationExperience working with defense networks within a secure DoD environment (e.g., SIPR, JWICS)Familiarity with network automation and configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible for IOS/NX-OS, Puppet)Experience with containerization technologies and understanding of their underlying overlay networking requirements (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes networking)Network scripting skills in Bash and PowerShell to automate routine configuration backups and monitoring tasksFamiliarity with a diverse array of enterprise networking products and next-generation firewalls (e.g., Juniper, Ubiquiti, Palo Alto)BenefitsCompetitive compensation package and benefits.Professional development and certification opportunities.Collaborative and supportive team environment.High potential for long-term placement on follow-on SETA contract.