Network Architect (Security) NWARCH 26-06065

Location: Richmond VA (Hybrid onsite at least once per week)
Duration: 6 Months (Contract-to-Hire)
Openings: 2 Positions

A leading organization is seeking experienced Network Architects (Security-focused) to design implement and manage enterprise and cloud networking solutions. This role requires deep expertise in routing firewall security SD-WAN and hybrid cloud networking environments.

• Lead the design and implementation of enterprise and cloud networking architectures (Azure AWS hybrid)
• Develop network consolidation strategies across multiple environments and business units
• Architect secure and scalable connectivity solutions including VPNs hub-and-spoke and transit networks
• Define standards for routing segmentation and high availability

• Design and manage cloud networking environments (Azure AWS GCP familiarity)
• Implement and maintain:
  • Virtual networks (VNets/VPCs)
  • Peering and private connectivity (ExpressRoute Direct Connect)
  • Network security controls (NSGs firewalls routing tables)
• Integrate on-premises and cloud infrastructure

• Design and troubleshoot complex routing environments using BGP OSPF and EIGRP
• Optimize routing policies for performance failover and traffic engineering
• Resolve issues related to latency packet loss and asymmetric routing

• Manage next-generation firewalls primarily Palo Alto Networks (PAN-OS Panorama)
• Define and enforce security policies NAT and segmentation strategies
• Collaborate with security teams on threat mitigation and compliance

• Design and support SD-WAN solutions using Cisco SD-WAN (Viptela)
• Manage branch networking using Cisco Meraki (MX MS MR full stack)
• Ensure consistent performance policy enforcement and visibility across sites

• Act as the primary technical liaison with telecom carriers and ISPs
• Troubleshoot circuit issues (latency outages routing anomalies)
• Design and validate circuit deployments (DIA MPLS broadband LTE/5G)
• Coordinate with vendors during deployments and escalations

• Serve as Tier 3 escalation point for network-related issues
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership
• Develop documentation standards and operational runbooks
• Participate in on-call rotation as needed

• 15 years of experience in enterprise networking (Architect level)
• Deep expertise in BGP routing and network design
• Strong hands-on experience with:
  • Palo Alto Networks firewalls
  • Cisco SD-WAN (Viptela)
  • Cisco Meraki (full stack)
• Proven experience designing and implementing cloud networking architectures
• Strong troubleshooting skills across routing firewall and connectivity domains
• Experience working with telecom carriers and ISPs
• Excellent communication skills

• Experience with multi-environment or multi-tenant network consolidation
• Relevant certifications (preferred not required):
  • CCNP / CCIE
  • PCNSE (Palo Alto)
  • Azure Network Engineer Associate (AZ-700)
  • AWS Advanced Networking Specialty

• Candidates must be available for hybrid work (onsite weekly in Richmond VA)
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities are highly valued

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