Aruba Network Engineer (Pref local to DC , This is a Hybrid role)

Job Title: Aruba Network Engineer

Location: DC , 20510

Duration: 6 Months C2H

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Aruba 6400/6300 Implementation & Migration

Phase 1: Deploy and configure Aruba 6400 core switches (VSX, VLAN routing, trunk links to Cisco Nexus 7Ks).
Phase 2: Implement Aruba 6300M switches for a 100% wireless environment on testing floors, then scale to all floors.
Configure VLANs, default routes to Granite SDWAN, and Active-Gateway (VSX) for redundancy and routing between VLANs.
Ensure compatibility and interoperability with existing Cisco Nexus 7Ks, verifying routing and transit VLAN functionality.

1. Aruba Solution Design & ClearPass
   Architect, configure, and deploy Aruba network solutions, including Mobility Controllers (Aruba OS 8.x), Access Points (AP-3xx/5xx), and CX Switches.
   Configure and manage Aruba ClearPass (Policy Manager, Guest, OnGuard, Onboard) for AAA, role-based access control, and NAC.
   Optimize wireless networks for high performance, secure 802.1X authentication, and PoE configurations.
2. SD-WAN Integration (Granite)
   Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate Granite SDWAN solutions, ensuring resilient and efficient connectivity.
   Manage WAN circuit upgrades and failover testing for multi-site deployments; verify default routes to Granite Edge for internet access.
3. Zscaler Configuration
   Deploy, configure, and maintain Zscaler Internet Access (ZIA) and Zscaler Private Access (ZPA) for secure, cloud-based internet and SaaS access.
   Align Zscaler policies and configurations with broader cybersecurity strategies and federal regulations.
4. Network Security & Compliance
   Ensure compliance with federal security standards (e.g., NIST, FISMA, FedRAMP) and maintain documentation per Public Trust guidelines.
   Implement zero-trust security principles, including network segmentation, firewalls, role-based access, and NAC across all layers.
5. Testing & Troubleshooting
   Conduct comprehensive testing and validation (VLAN propagation, default routes, VSX failover simulations, end-to-end connectivity).
   Investigate and resolve complex network issues spanning Aruba, SDWAN, and Zscaler, providing root-cause analysis and effective remediation.
   Provide on-call support as needed to ensure the high availability of critical network infrastructure.
6. Performance Optimization & Automation
   Monitor network performance metrics, perform capacity planning, and recommend best practices for improved availability/security.
   Automate repetitive tasks using scripting tools (Python, Ansible, etc.) to streamline network management and operations.
7. Technical Documentation & Stakeholder Collaboration
   Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation of network architectures, migration plans, configurations, and operational procedures.
   Communicate with internal/external stakeholders and vendors for project updates, technical requirements, and progress reports.
   Coordinate with helpdesk, server, and end-user teams to minimize disruptions during migration or system changes.

REQUIRED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) Configuring and optimizing internet routing.
• Firewalls Controlling and securing traffic across network boundaries; advanced rule management.
• Load Balancers Managing network traffic distribution for reliability and performance.
• Network Administration Provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting network devices and services.
• Network Architecture Designing, connecting, and implementing services and systems to achieve organizational goals.
• Network Engineering Building and maintaining complex networks to ensure performance, security, and scalability.
• Network Management Overseeing network infrastructure to maintain high availability and optimal use of resources.
• Network Security Ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data with tools like NAC, IPS, and firewalls.
• Networking Hardware Configuring and maintaining routers, switches, access points, and other hardware.
• Routing and Switching Implementing advanced LAN/WAN routing and switching protocols (e.g., OSPF, EIGRP, STP).
• Routing Protocols Managing protocols that determine the paths data follows (BGP, OSPF, etc.).
• Troubleshooting Diagnosing and resolving complex issues in a multi-vendor, multi-technology environment.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Clearance: Active Public Trust clearance.
• Federal Experience: Minimum 3 years of experience working on federal government contracts or in a federal agency environment.
• Aruba & Networking Expertise:
  Hands-on experience designing and deploying Aruba solutions (Controllers, AP-3xx/5xx, Aruba CX Switches).
  Strong proficiency with Aruba ClearPass (AAA, NAC, role-based access).
  Working knowledge of Granite SDWAN and Zscaler solutions.
• Education & Experience:
  Typically requires a BS degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related technical field with 8 12 years of relevant experience; OR
  A Master s degree with 6 10 years of prior relevant experience; OR
  A Doctorate in a technical domain with commensurate experience.
• Communication & Documentation:
  Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  Proven track record of producing clear, concise documentation, including detailed network designs and test results.
• Located in the D.C. Metro Area and available to come onsite in D.C.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced Aruba Certifications (e.g., Aruba Certified Mobility Expert, Aruba Edge certifications).
• Additional Networking/Security Certifications (e.g., Cisco CCNP/CCIE, Palo Alto PCNSA/PCNSE).
• Advanced SDWAN Orchestration & WAN Optimization experience.
• Expertise with additional cloud security products and zero-trust architectures (e.g., Netskope, Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps).
• Strong automation/scripting capabilities (Python, Ansible) for network management.
• Familiarity with federal compliance (NIST, FISMA, FedRAMP).