Sr. Solutions Architect - SHI Labs

Senior Technical Leader Networking ExpertWe are seeking a highly experienced and customer-facing networking expert to serve as a senior technical leader within our organization. This role operates at the intersection of consulting, pre-sales, and engineering—partnering with customers, internal stakeholders, and vendors to design, validate, and deliver modern network solutions.Role DescriptionCustomer Engagement & AdvisoryServe as the lead technical voice providing solution demonstrations to customersAct as a trusted advisor to presales Field CIOs, CISOs, and engineering teams, influencing network strategy and technology decisionsTranslate business and security requirements into structured use cases and test plansLead workshops, technical deep dives, and executive briefingsArchitecture, Design & Lab ExecutionDesign and build complex lab environments simulating enterprise architecturesDevelop and execute proof-of-concept (POC) and proof-of-value (POV) testing across multiple network solutionsValidate vendor capabilities, integration points, and real-world operational impactProduce reference architectures, design documentation, and validation reportsPre-Sales & Post-Sales LeadershipPartner with account teams and presales engineering to develop new network solutions, evaluate partnerships, and guide overall network support strategyLead the development and validation of clearly defined use cases and test casesLead technical scoping, sizing, and delivery planning for pilot engagementsEnsure successful project execution, stepping in to resolve complex or at-risk deployments when neededLab Innovation & Practice LeadershipDrive innovation within the networking team by evaluating emerging technologiesProvide feedback to vendors on product gaps, limitations, and enhancement opportunitiesMentor and develop engineers across the practice, from junior to senior levelsAssist in talent identification and technical interviewingBehaviors and CompetenciesProblem-Solving: Can proactively identify and take ownership of complex problem-solving initiatives, initiate preventative measures, collaborate with others to find solutions, and drive successful outcomes.Communication: Can effectively communicate complex ideas and information to diverse audiences, facilitate effective communication between others, and mentor others in effective communication.Adaptability: Can lead others through change, help teams adapt to new directions, and create a culture open to change.Leadership: Can take ownership of complex team initiatives, collaborate with others in decision-making processes, and drive team performance.Teamwork: Can build and lead multiple teams, fostering a cooperative environment and ensuring effective communication between team members.Self-Motivation: Can take ownership of complex personal or professional initiatives, collaborate with others when necessary, and drive results through self-motivation.Skill Level RequirementsTechnical ExpertiseStrong expertise across multiple domains, including:Secure Access & Network Security (ZTNA, SASE, VDI, browser isolation, remote access, NGFW, segmentation, SD-WAN, etc.)Network Design and Routing (WAN/LAN, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, MPLS)Cloud and Virtualization (VPCs, VPNs, hybrid data centers)Automation and Scripting (Python, Terraform, Ansible)Ability to design, build, and troubleshoot complex integrated environments (hands-on)Experience with multi-technology integrations and interoperability testingOther Requirements8+ years of experience in network engineering, architecture, or consulting rolesExperience in a VAR, consulting firm, or systems integrator strongly preferredProven success operating in a hybrid pre-sales/post-sales capacityDemonstrated ability to lead large-scale, multi-vendor network engagementsDemonstrated ImpactHistory of driving measurable outcomes, including:Significant service revenue generationInfluence on large-scale network purchasing decisionsExperience mentoring teams and shaping national or enterprise-level practicesTechnology ExposureExperience working with leading networking and infrastructure vendors such as: Arista, Aruba/HPE, BlueCat, Cisco/Meraki, Cradlepoint, Dell, Extreme, Fortinet, Juniper/HPE, LogicMonitor, Netgear, Ruckus, SolarWindsIdeal Candidate ProfileExperience operating as a Principal Consultant or Senior Architect in a VAR or consulting environmentEqually comfortable in executive whiteboard sessions and hands-on lab environmentsThrives in complex, ambiguous environments and brings structure through engineering rigorThe estimated annual pay range for this position is $175,000 - $240,000 which includes a base salary and bonus. The compensation for this position is dependent on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and market location and, therefore, will vary from individual to individual. Benefits may include, but are not limited to, medical, vision, dental, 401K, and flexible spending.Equal Employment Opportunity – M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status