Network Infrastructure Architect

Network Infrastructure Architect Remote | Travel Required | Contract-to-Hire Opportunity CRI Advantage is seeking an experienced Network Infrastructure Architect to lead the design and deployment of enterprise infrastructure for a high-profile client entering the nuclear industry. This is a hands‑on architecture role focused on building a secure, compliant enterprise environment from the ground up. The ideal candidate is someone who thrives in greenfield environments, can move strategically while still being technical, and has experience designing enterprise networks in regulated or security‑focused industries. This engagement is expected to last approximately 5 months, with strong potential for extension and/or long‑term placement within CRI's Services Division. What You'll Be Doing Assess and document the client's current infrastructure environment across multiple locations Design enterprise network architecture, segmentation strategies, and secure connectivity solutions Lead deployment and configuration of enterprise firewalls, VPNs, and wireless infrastructure Implement secure networking aligned with CMMC Level 2 and NIST 800-171 requirements Coordinate infrastructure build activities with vendors, ISPs, and field teams Support workstation deployment, Active Directory integration, and endpoint readiness Create detailed network diagrams, technical documentation, and operational runbooks Collaborate with security and compliance consultants supporting the client's audit readiness Mentor support personnel who will assume ongoing operational ownership after deployment Required Qualifications 8+ years of experience in Network Engineering, Infrastructure Architecture, Enterprise Networking, and Network Security Experience designing and deploying enterprise environments from the ground up Strong hands‑on experience with Palo Alto, Fortinet, Cisco ASA/Firepower or equivalent firewall platforms Experience implementing Site‑to‑site VPNs, SD-WAN, Remote access solutions Working knowledge of CMMC Level 2, NIST 800-171, Network segmentation for CUI environments Experience with Enterprise wireless solutions, Structured cabling projects, Active Directory / Azure AD, Windows Server environments Strong technical documentation and communication skills Willingness to travel regularly to client locations during deployment phases Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting Nuclear, Defense, Energy, Government contracting environments Familiarity with NQA-1, SSPs, POA&Ms, Compliance remediation activities Certifications such as CCNP/CCIE, CISSP, PCNSE, Fortinet NSE Consulting or managed services experience ITIL and ServiceNow familiarity Work Location & Travel This role is primarily remote but requires travel to: Boise/Caldwell, Idaho Field locations in: Missouri, Tennessee, Texas and Utah Travel frequency will vary depending on project phase and deployment schedules. Compensation W2: $75–85/hour DOE 1099: $115–130/hour DOE Potential for extension beyond initial engagement and/or long‑term placement CRI Advantage is an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr