The individual in this position is the lead network engineer in Huntsville, AL, supporting Auria’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) Futures Program (PFP) Ground Segment (PFP-GS) Integration (PGI) program. The lead network engineer is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of the program’s network infrastructure. In this role, the individual will provide guidance, technical expertise, and support to ensure the network's reliability, security, and scalability. This role requires excellent technical, communication, and collaboration skills, as this individual works closely with cross-functional teams to understand requirements and shape the design of assigned systems.
This position may support other Auria programs (including classified programs) as identified by Auria program management.
Specific tasks include:
Requirements and Design – Lead the design, development, and integration of the network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls, and other network devices. Develop and enforce network security policies and procedures to safeguard system data and infrastructure.
Documentation and Communication – Produce essential network documentation and effectively communicate complex technical details to various stakeholders, ensuring clarity and understanding.
Risk and Performance Management – Identify potential network risks, devise mitigation strategies, and monitor system performance metrics, making adjustments as needed.
Mentorship – Mentor and provide guidance to junior engineers and team members, fostering an environment of continuous learning and improvement.
Collaboration and Continuous Improvement – Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, stay updated with industry trends, and incorporate feedback for ongoing system refinement. Liaise with stakeholders, including customers and end-users, to gather feedback and ensure the system meets operational requirements.
Required Qualifications:
Strong understanding of networking concepts, protocols, and technologies, including but not limited to Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), Border Gateway Protocol (BGP), and Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), acquired through practical application and continuous learning.
Proficiency in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting network hardware and software components, encompassing routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, and intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), ensuring seamless operation and optimal performance.
Experience utilizing a wide range of network troubleshooting and diagnostic tools, such as Wireshark, tcpdump, traceroute, and ping, to identify and resolve connectivity issues, latency problems, and other network-related anomalies efficiently.
Comprehensive knowledge of network security principles and best practices, including access control, encryption, authentication mechanisms, and security policies, essential for safeguarding organizational assets and mitigating cybersecurity risks.
Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, foster collaboration within the team, and provide guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.
Proven ability to prioritize tasks, manage competing priorities, and work effectively under pressure in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, ensuring timely resolution of critical network issues and adherence to project deadlines.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, enabling the identification of root causes of network issues, the development of innovative solutions, and the implementation of preventive measures to enhance network reliability and performance.
Proficiency with M.S. Office Products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
Preferred Qualifications:
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or equivalent industry-recognized certifications, validating advanced knowledge and expertise in designing, implementing, and managing Cisco-based network solutions, enhancing credibility and proficiency in the field.
Extensive experience with software-defined networking (SDN) technologies, such as Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) or VMware NSX, enabling centralized network management, automation, and agility in dynamic IT environments.
In-depth understanding of cloud networking concepts and platforms, including Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft Azure, coupled with hands-on experience deploying and optimizing network infrastructure in cloud environments.
Proficiency in network automation and scripting languages, such as Python, Ansible, or PowerShell, facilitating the automation of routine tasks, the orchestration of network workflows, and the integration of network services with other IT systems and processes.
Familiarity with virtualization technologies, such as VMware vSphere or Microsoft Hyper-V, enabling the design and deployment of virtual network environments, enhancing scalability, resource utilization, and flexibility in enterprise IT infrastructures.
Experience working in DevOps or Agile environments, utilizing collaborative tools and methodologies, such as Git, Jenkins, or Jira, to streamline development, deployment, and operations processes, promoting continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD) and iterative improvement.
Advanced degree or additional certifications in networking, cybersecurity, or related fields, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing professional development, specialization, and mastery of advanced networking concepts and technologies.
Education/Experience:
Senior Principal Engineer (Engineer Level 5): Typically, a Bachelor's degree and 14 or more years of experience or a Master's with 11 or more years of experience
Manager:PGI Program Manager Work Conditions:
Primary Location: 6767 Old Madison Pike, Suite # 420, Huntsville, AL 35806
Work Model: Hybrid (In-Office 3 Days a Week)
Travel: 10%
Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen. Current TOP SECRET with SCI eligibility security clearance is required for consideration. This position is for a proposal and contract located in Huntsville, AL.