Sr. Network Architect w/SCADA, DCS, Radio Telecomms (W2 Only - No C2C and No H1Bs)

Location: Oak Ridge, TN (5-days on-site)

Work Auth: or TN Visa

Duration: 6 months

Background check?: Yes

Interview Process/# of Rounds: 1 panel style interview > Offer

Client is growing rapidly and building out a new site. This person will be supporting TRISOX Fuel Facility Network Architecture Designs.

14 years of experience in network architecture, with a focus on manufacturing environments, SCADA, DCS, and radio telecommunications is Must

Job Profile Summary:

This role is responsible for the design, implementation, and security of complex network infrastructures for manufacturing plants. The Network Architect will focus on creating resilient, scalable, and secure networks, integrating SCADA systems, Distributed Control Systems (DCS), and radio telecommunications. This includes maintaining compliance with industry regulations such as ITAR, ECI, and DOE CFR. The role requires a strong blend of technical expertise and leadership in designing networks that support mission-critical industrial systems and applications.

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.

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.

• Leadership & Mentorship:
• Lead and execute core network design tasks, providing strategic direction and oversight for projects without close supervision.
• Mentor junior network engineers, sharing industry best practices and providing guidance on technical challenges.
• Take ownership of network projects from initial design through deployment and post-implementation support.
• Industry Best Practices & Knowledge Sharing:
• Share knowledge and insights regarding industry standards, emerging technologies, and best practices related to network architecture and industrial control systems.
• Regularly review and recommend improvements for network infrastructure and security to enhance scalability and resilience.