Lead Network Architect

Job Overview:

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Network Architect to join our dynamic IT team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex network infrastructures to meet the growing needs of our organization. You will work closely with internal teams, vendors, and stakeholders to ensure that our network systems are robust, scalable, and secure. This role requires a deep understanding of network technologies, protocols, and architecture design.

Key Responsibilities:

• Network Design & Architecture:
  • Design and implement enterprise-scale network infrastructure solutions, including local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud-based networks, and network security.
  • Evaluate and select appropriate networking hardware and software to meet the organization’s needs.
  • Develop network topology and architecture documents and ensure that designs comply with industry standards and best practices.
• Network Optimization & Performance:
  • Analyze and optimize network performance to ensure reliability, availability, and scalability.
  • Implement network monitoring tools to proactively identify issues and enhance network efficiency.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues as they arise, maintaining minimal downtime.
• Security & Compliance:
  • Design and enforce network security policies and procedures, including firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and other security technologies.
  • Ensure network compliance with relevant industry regulations and standards (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS).
• Collaboration & Communication:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including IT support, development, and management, to design and deliver solutions that meet business needs.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to junior network engineers and technicians.
  • Communicate network strategies and design plans to stakeholders, both technical and non-technical.
• Documentation & Reporting:
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation for network designs, configurations, and procedures.
  • Produce regular reports on network health, performance metrics, and security postures.

Required Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• Experience:
  • 5 years of experience in network architecture, design, and implementation, with a focus on enterprise-level systems.
  • Proven experience with network design, management, and troubleshooting in both on-premises and cloud environments.
• Technical Skills:
  • Expertise in network design, including routing and switching (e.g., Cisco, Juniper), firewalls, load balancing, and VPN technologies.
  • Proficiency with network security protocols, IP addressing, DNS, DHCP, and network management tools.
  • Hands-on experience with SDN (Software-Defined Networking) and cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP).
  • Strong knowledge of IPv4/IPv6, TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, and other network protocols.
• Certifications (Preferred):
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • AWS Certified Solutions Architect or similar cloud certifications
  • CompTIA Network or other relevant certifications.

Preferred Skills:

• Strong understanding of automation tools and scripting (e.g., Python, Ansible, or similar).
• Experience with network virtualization and cloud-based network technologies.
• Ability to design and implement disaster recovery and business continuity plans for network infrastructures.