Sr. Network Architect

Job Description

Job Profile Tasks/Responsibilities:

Essential duties/responsibilities primary to the role, in order of time spent (from highest to lowest):

• Network Design & Infrastructure Development:
• Design, implement, and optimize secure, scalable, and high-performance network infrastructures for manufacturing environments, focusing on SCADA, DCS, and industrial automation systems.
• Integrate industrial networks with IT systems to support critical production processes and real-time data collection and analysis.
• Collaborate with operations and IT teams to ensure networks meet uptime, scalability, and security requirements for mission-critical systems.
• SCADA/DCS & Industrial System Integration:
• Design and deploy networks supporting SCADA and DCS systems, ensuring secure communication and real-time data exchange between industrial control systems and enterprise systems.
• Develop and implement network protocols and standards for efficient integration of sensors, controllers, and industrial automation devices.
• Telecommunications & Radio Systems:
• Design and implement secure wireless and radio communication systems for remote monitoring and control in large manufacturing facilities.
• Develop and maintain radio communication systems including Wi-Fi, LTE, and private radio networks, ensuring reliability, low latency, and security.
• Cybersecurity & Regulatory Compliance:
• Ensure all network systems adhere to industry standards and best practices for security, particularly for industrial control systems (ICS).
• Maintain compliance with ITAR, Export Control Implementation (ECI), and DOE CFR, particularly in the context of sensitive data and government-regulated manufacturing environments.
• Design and deploy network security solutions (firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs) for industrial networks, ensuring integrity, confidentiality, and availability of critical systems.
• Project Management & Vendor Coordination:
• Lead network design projects, coordinating with vendors, contractors, and internal stakeholders to deliver robust solutions within scope and budget.
• Oversee project lifecycle, from design and implementation through to operational deployment and ongoing support.
• Network Performance Optimization & Troubleshooting:
• Continuously monitor network performance and take proactive measures to optimize the network for speed, reliability, and security.
• Troubleshoot complex network issues related to industrial control systems, ensuring minimal downtime and disruption to production.
• Documentation & Knowledge Transfer:
• Maintain comprehensive documentation for network designs, configurations, and security protocols.
• Provide training and guidance to junior team members and internal stakeholders regarding best practices for network operations and security.

Job Profile Minimum Qualifications:

These minimum qualifications are required and must be met by everyone in this position level of the role.

• Education:
• Bachelor s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 14 years of experience in network architecture, with a focus on manufacturing environments, SCADA, DCS, and radio telecommunications.
• Certifications:
• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) or equivalent network certification.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or equivalent security certification.
• Experience with relevant industrial control systems protocols such as Modbus, OPC, Ethernet/IP, Profibus is highly desirable.
• Technical Skills and Experience:
• Strong experience designing, deploying, and managing secure networks for manufacturing plants, including SCADA and DCS systems.
• Expertise in designing and configuring firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), VPNs, and SD-WAN for industrial networks.
• In-depth understanding of industrial network protocols and systems integration (SCADA, DCS, IIoT, etc.).
• Experience with wireless communications, radio networks, and RF technologies (Wi-Fi, LTE, private radio) in manufacturing environments.
• Cybersecurity Expertise:
• Proven experience designing and implementing security measures tailored to industrial networks, with an emphasis on regulatory compliance.
• Familiarity with ITAR, ECI, and DOE CFR regulatory standards and how they affect network and security architecture.
• Additional Skills:
• Strong problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex network issues.
• Leadership experience in managing cross-functional teams and vendor relationships.
• Ability to deliver results under pressure, managing multiple projects simultaneously