Network Engineer / Lead - W2 Contract to hire

Trident Consulting is looking for a Network Engineer / Lead for one of our clients in Dallas TX - Hybrid

Role: Network Engineer / Lead

Location: Dallas TX - Hybrid

Type: Contract to hire - W2

Looking for a Local candidate who can go for an onsite - Hybrid

What you will do:

Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead and mentor a team of network engineers, fostering professional growth and technical expertise.
• Collaborate with IT leadership, stakeholders, and vendors to develop strategic network solutions aligned with business objectives.
• Manage multiple projects, ensuring timely delivery within scope and budget.

Network Design & Implementation

• Architect and implement advanced network solutions, including LAN, WAN, SD-WAN, and multi-cloud integrations, using Cisco technologies.
• Design and deploy wireless networks, conduct site surveys, and optimize access points for high-density and seamless connectivity.
• Develop and implement network security strategies, leveraging Palo Alto firewalls, including features such as App-ID, URL filtering, and threat prevention.

Optimization & Automation

• Optimize network performance and reliability by monitoring, analyzing, and troubleshooting issues using tools like SolarWinds, Panorama, and NetFlow.
• Automate network configurations and deployments using tools like Python, Ansible, or Terraform to improve operational efficiency.

Security & Compliance

Define and enforce network security policies, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices.

Implement secure VPN solutions (IPSec, SSL) and manage Zero Trust Architectures.

Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and implement remediation strategies to mitigate risks.

Documentation & Reporting

• Create and maintain detailed network diagrams, technical documentation, and project reports.
• Present network architecture designs and updates to stakeholders and executive leadership.

Required Skills:

• Strong expertise in Cisco networking (Nexus, Catalyst, SD-WAN, routing, and switching) with certifications such as CCNP or CCIE.
• Hands-on experience configuring and managing Palo Alto firewalls, including centralized management via Panorama.
• Proven experience in designing and deploying wireless networks (Cisco WLC, Aruba) and conducting RF site surveys.
• Advanced knowledge of network protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, MPLS, IPv4/IPv6) and security protocols (IPS/IDS, SSL, IPSec).
• Proficiency in network automation (Python, Ansible) and performance monitoring tools.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with cloud networking and security in AWS and Azure environments.
• Experience with SD-WAN technologies and implementation.
• Knowledge of Zero Trust and other modern security architectures.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in network design, implementation, and leadership roles.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CCIE, PCNSE, CWNP) are highly desirable.

About Trident

Trident Consulting is a premier IT staffing firm providing high-impact workforce solutions to Fortune 500 and mid-market clients. Since 2005, we’ve specialized in sourcing elite technology and engineering talent for contract, direct hire, and managed services roles. Our expertise spans cloud, AI/ML, cybersecurity, and data analytics, supported by a 3M candidate database and a 78% fill ratio. With a highly engaged leadership team and a reputation for delivering hard-to-fill, niche talent, we help organizations build agile, high-performing teams that drive innovation and business success.

Some of our recent awards include:

Trailblazer Women Award 2025 by Consulate General of India in San Francisco

Ranked as the #1 Women Owned Business Enterprise in the large category by ITServe.

Received the TechServe Excellence award.

Consistently ranked in the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America

Recognized in the SF Business Times as one of the Largest Bay Area BIPOC/Minority-Owned Businesses in 2022.