Senior Network Architect

Title: Senior Network Architect

Employee Classification: Senior Network Architect

Campus: University of North Texas - System Administration

Division: SYS-Information Technology

SubDivision-Department: SYS-Information Technology

Department: SYS-Information Technology-925000

Job Location: Denton

Salary: Commensurate with experience

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility:

About Us - Values Overview:

Department Summary

System IT is a component of The University of North Texas System. The mission of System IT is simple: to be the best at delivering customer-aligned IT solutions and services. Our services are provided to all member institutions using an IT shared services governance model.

System IT provides the primary technology used by all campuses to support their operations. These include: shared resources of data centers, computing hardware, software applications, network and voice communications, collaboration and productivity capabilities, central web services, risk management, and security and compliance services. As a department, we strive to provide the most professional personnel possible to serve our campus constituents.

The University of North Texas is a state employer offering great benefits, including medical, dental, life, retirement, ample paid time off, and great work/life balance.

Position Overview

The Senior Network Architect role is a key technology role responsible for the design, implementation, and management of the organization's network infrastructure. This position requires a deep understanding of network architecture and a strategic vision for future network developments. The Senior Network Architect will work closely with senior management, IT teams, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure that the network infrastructure supports the UNT System's academic and administrative goals. This role will also oversee complex projects, optimize network performance, ensure compliance with industry standards, and manage costs effectively.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in related field and four years data communications and/or networking experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

- Ability to plan and conceptualize and make sound Design decisions
- Must exercise considerable independent and professional judgment in matters of high significance
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Strong planning and project management skills
- Ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups verbally and in writing
- Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships
- Ability to work independently
- Knowledge of safety and security precautions appropriate to work performed

Preferred Qualifications

Technical Expertise:
- in-depth knowledge of network architecture including LAN, WAN, SDWAN, Data Center, Wireless, and DDI.
- Strong expertise in routing protocols (BGP, OSPF) and switching technologies, including campus microsegmentation
- comprehensive understanding of data center networking, including spine-leaf architecture and virtualization
- Proficiency in network security design and implementation, including firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection/prevention, and Zero Trust architectures
- Experience with DNS and application load balancing solutions (Infoblox, F5)
- Experience with DDI (DNS, DHCP, IPAM) solutions, specifically Infoblox
- Experience with automation and orchestration tools is a plus

Vendor Specific Knowledge:
- Hands-on experience with technologies from Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, Palo Alto, Fortinet, and Infoblox
- Strong understanding of Juniper switching and campus networks, including EVPN-VXLAN and microsegmentation
- Experience with Palo Alto and Fortinet firewalls, including security policies and advanced threat protection
- Experience with Juniper WAN and routing, including BGP, OSPF, and MPLS

Required License/Registration/Certifications

Education and Experience:
- Bachelors degree in Information Technology or related field. Advanced degree would be a bonus.
- 8 years of experience in network design, implementation, and management, with at least 3 years as an architect or lead.

Preferred certifications:
- CCNA/CCNP/CCIE
- JNCIA/JNCIP/JNCIE
- PCNSE/PCNSA

Job Duties:

• 30% - * Strategic Network Planning and Oversight - (Essential)
• 20% - * Network Design and Architecture - (Essential)
• 10% - * Project Management and Execution - (Essential)
• 10% - * Network Operations and Maintenance - (Essential)
• 10% - * Security and Compliance - (Essential)
• 10% - * Innovation and Cost Optimization - (Essential)
• 10% - * Documentation and Reporting - (Essential)

Work Schedule:

Generally M-F, 8am-5pm

Driving University Vehicle:

No

Security Sensitive:

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions:

Benefits:

For information regarding our Benefits, click here.

EEO Statement:

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -- and takes actions to prevent -- discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence) and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application and admission processes, educational programs and activities, facilities and employment practices. The University of North Texas System immediately investigates complaints of discrimination and takes remedial action when appropriate. The University of North Texas System also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist or participate in an investigative proceeding or hearing.