Principal Network Engineer

Job Title: Principal Network Engineer
Location: Tulsa, OK (3 days a week on-site) 
Duration: Direct Hire

Overview:
We are looking for a highly experienced Principal Network Engineer to lead the design, implementation, and operation of our enterprise network infrastructure. This role is a critical part of our networking team, responsible for ensuring seamless LAN/WAN performance, security, and scalability. You will drive innovation, collaborate across teams, and provide expert-level support while mentoring network engineers to maintain a resilient, high-performing network environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Network Architecture & Deployment – Design, implement, and optimize enterprise-scale network solutions leveraging Cisco ACI, Nexus, and Meraki to meet business and security requirements.
• Technical Leadership & Mentorship – Act as a subject matter expert, guiding internal teams and external partners while fostering skill development and best practices.
• Performance & Optimization – Continuously monitor, analyze, and enhance network performance, capacity planning, and configuration to ensure maximum uptime and efficiency.
• IP & DHCP Management – Develop, document, and maintain IP schemes and DHCP scopes to support a scalable and reliable enterprise network.
• Security & Compliance – Collaborate with the Security Operations team to design and implement firewall configurations, network segmentation, and access control strategies.
• Incident Resolution & Escalation – Serve as the final escalation point for complex network issues, ensuring timely troubleshooting and resolution.
• Strategic Collaboration – Work closely with Architecture, Security, and IT leadership to align network infrastructure with business goals and emerging technologies.
• Vendor & Carrier Management – Act as a primary liaison with network vendors and service providers to optimize performance, costs, and partnership effectiveness.

What You Bring:

Experience & Certifications

• 10 years of experience in enterprise network engineering with a focus on Cisco technologies.

• 5 years of experience in network architecture and design for large-scale environments.

• CCNP certification required (CCIE highly preferred).

Technical Expertise

• Deep proficiency in Cisco networking (ACI, Nexus, routers, switches, wireless, and voice).

• Expert knowledge of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP) and LAN/WAN infrastructure.

• Hands-on experience with wireless solutions (Aruba, Cisco).

• Strong firewall expertise, including Cisco ASA and Palo Alto platforms.

Skills & Mindset

• In-depth understanding of network security, switching, and routing technologies.

• Ability to adapt to evolving technologies and implement forward-thinking strategies.

• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills to engage with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making mindset.

Preferred:

• CCIE Routing & Switching certification (highly preferred)

• Experience with network automation and scripting (Python, Ansible).

• Knowledge of SD-WAN technologies and cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP).