Senior Network Specialist

Role: Network SME

Location: Mclean, VA

Clearance: TS/SCI Ci Poly

Salary: $200k-$215k

We are seeking a highly skilled Network Subject Matter Expert (SME) with extensive experience in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting complex network environments utilizing Juniper and Cisco technologies. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of both on-premises and highly restricted environments, such as Department of Defense (DoD) networks. This position requires expertise in secure networking solutions, compliance with government regulations, and working within classified or highly controlled environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and manage Juniper and Cisco network infrastructures, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
• Provide expert-level support and troubleshooting for highly secure and mission-critical networks.
• Work within on-premises, air-gapped, and highly restricted DoD environments, ensuring adherence to strict security policies.
• Develop and maintain network architecture diagrams, configuration templates, and documentation in compliance with DoD standards.
• Implement and maintain STIG compliance, security hardening, and network security best practices.
• Perform risk assessments and security reviews for network components, ensuring alignment with RMF (Risk Management Framework) requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including system administrators, cybersecurity professionals, and government agencies, to maintain network integrity and security.
• Conduct network performance analysis, capacity planning, and optimization to ensure high availability and reliability.
• Utilize automation and scripting tools to enhance network efficiency and reduce manual configurations.
• Provide mentorship, training, and guidance to junior engineers and other team members.

Required Qualifications:

• 10 years of hands-on experience in network engineering, specializing in Cisco and Juniper network environments.
• Experience working in DoD, military, or government-restricted networks with knowledge of classified systems and security compliance.
• Strong understanding of network protocols (BGP, OSPF, MPLS, VPN, IPSec, etc.) and network security principles.
• Proficiency in configuring and troubleshooting Cisco IOS, NX-OS, Junos, and firewall solutions.
• Familiarity with STIG implementation, RMF framework, and DoD networking standards.
• Experience working with air-gapped and isolated networks.
• Hands-on experience with network automation tools (Ansible, Python, or similar).
• Active Security CE, CCNA, JNCIA, or other relevant certifications.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced certifications such as CCNP, JNCIP, CISSP, or CEH.
• Experience with network virtualization (VMware NSX, Cisco ACI).
• Understanding of Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) and next-generation network security models.
• Prior experience supporting DoD networks with DISA, NIST, and FISMA compliance.
• Knowledge of cloud networking in hybrid environments.

If you are interested in finding out more, please apply below and I will be in contact to discuss the role further.

Please note you must have an active TS/SCI w CI poly to apply for this role