Network Architect – SD-WAN
Our client is a fast-growing Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business providing full-service IT solutions to both federal and commercial clients. Their continued growth is attributed to their core values, their professional team, and the valuable relationships with their clients. As they grow, they are adding strategic roles to enhance the team. This role will provide support to and will report to the Director of Engineering

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:        

• Design and Deploy Cisco SD-WAN Solutions: Plan, design, and implement Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN architectures for USCG cutters, ensuring scalable, secure, and resilient network connectivity for maritime operations.
• Proof of Concept (POC) Execution: Support the ongoing POC at the TISCOM C5ISC lab, configuring cloud and on-premises SD-WAN controllers (Catalyst SD-WAN Manager, Controller, and Validator) and Cisco Firepower Threat Defense Virtual (FTDv) on lab routers to validate performance security, and operation feasibility.
• Pilot Deployment on Cutters: Lead the deployment of SD-WAN solutions across up to nine USCG cutters at locations including Charleston, SC; Portsmouth, VA; Kodiak, AK; and others, ensuring seamless integration with existing network infrastructure and minimal operational disruption.
• Hardware Configuration and Upgrades: Configure and optimize Cisco 4331 and C8300 routers, including memory upgrades, firmware updates, and FTDv integration, to meet SD-WAN requirements for high availability and redundancy.
• Security and Compliance: Implement end-to-end encryption, firewall policies, and network segmentation aligned with DoD security standards, supporting ATO documentation and compliance processes in collaboration with USCG.
• Network Optimization and Monitoring: Continuously monitor SD-WAN performance during the 6-to-12-month pilot, adjusting configurations for bandwidth management, application-aware routing, and failover mechanisms to ensure optimal maritime connectivity.
• Troubleshooting and Support: Provide advanced troubleshooting for SD-WAN environments, addressing connectivity, performance, and security issues, ensuring minimal downtime for mission-critical operations.
• Knowledge Transfer and Documentation: Develop comprehensive documentation of SD-WAN configurations, policies, and procedures, and conduct training for USCG staff to ensure self-sufficiency post-deployment.
• Collaboration: Work closely with client’s network architects/engineers, project managers, and USG stakeholders to align solutions with operational needs and project milestones.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field preferred; relevant work experience in lieu of a degree.

Experience:

• A minimum of 12 years of network engineering and architecture experience, with at least 7 years focused on Cisco SD-WAN solutions.
• Proven expertise in designing and deploying Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN.

Certifications:

• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) required; Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) preferred.
• IAT Level III Certification (e.g., CISSP, CISM, or equivalent) required.
• Security Clearance:
• Active Secret Security Clearance required.

TECHNICAL SKILLS:

• Deep knowledge of Cisco SD-WAN technologies, routing protocols (OMP, OSPF, BGP), VPNs, and QoS.
• Proficiency in configuring Cisco 4331 and C8300 routers, UCS servers, and Firepower Management Center (FMC).
• Familiarity with DoD security standards, ATO processes, and FedRAMP compliance.
• Experience with network automation tools (Python, Ansible) and cloud integration (AWS, Azure) is a plus.

LOCATION AND TRAVEL:

• Must reside in or near the greater Washington, DC area and be willing to travel regularly to Alexandria, VA.
• Willingness to travel to cutter locations (e.g., Charleston, SC; Kodiak, AK; Seattle, WA) as needed for deployment and support.