Network Architect SME

Leidos Holding$116K — $210K *
Information Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance required at hiring.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or related field, with 12-15 years relevant experience, or a Master's with 10-13 years (Doctorate may substitute).
  • IAT Level II certification required (e.g., Security+ CE, CySA+, GSEC, or SSCP).
  • Cisco CCNA certification is required (CCNP or CCIE preferred).
  • Minimum 8+ years of experience in network engineering and architecture with a focus on application delivery networks.
  • Deep expertise in F5 BIG-IP platforms and configuring LTM and GTM environments.
  • Extensive experience with Infoblox DDI environments and Grid architecture.

Responsibilities

  • Design, deploy, and manage advanced application delivery architectures for mission-critical applications.
  • Architect and maintain F5 BIG-IP solutions with a focus on LTM and GTM for load balancing.
  • Lead engineering and administration of enterprise-class DDI infrastructure using Infoblox technology.
  • Collaborate with developers, cybersecurity teams, and engineers to translate application needs into resilient network designs.
  • Perform advanced troubleshooting and optimization for complex application workflows.
  • Develop and maintain architectural documentation and standard operating procedures.
  • Ensure compliance with DoW STIGs and maintain documentation for compliance traceability.

Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance available.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
  • Paid time off and holidays included.
  • Opportunities for professional development and certifications.
  • Flexible working arrangements.
Full Job Description
Leidos is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Network Architect SME to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of our enterprise application delivery and DDI (DNS, DHCP, and IPAM) infrastructure in Fort Belvoir, VA or Albuquerque, New Mexico. The ideal candidate will have deep, hands-on expertise with F5 technologies and Infoblox, ensuring highly available, secure, and scalable application delivery models across the enterprise network in support of critical mission requirements that enhance the reliability and security of Department of War (DoW) networks and systems.

Acting as the technical lead for this initiative, you will architect and deploy network solutions utilizing F5 and Infoblox technologies in concert to provide intelligent and scalable global server load balancing (GSLB), secure DNS solutions,

and enterprise IP address management across our customer's rapidly evolving hybrid multi-cloud environment.

Clearance Requirement: Active TS/SCI

Primary Responsibilities
  • Application Delivery Architecture - Design, deploy, and manage advanced application delivery models ensuring high availability, optimal performance, and security for mission-critical enterprise applications.
  • F5 Infrastructure Management - Architect and maintain F5 BIG-IP solutions, with a heavy focus on Local Traffic Manager (LTM) and Global Traffic Manager (GTM) for intelligent local and global load balancing.
  • Enterprise DDI Administration - Lead the engineering, deployment, and administration of enterprise-class DDI infrastructure utilizing Infoblox technology (DNS, DHCP, and IP Address Management).
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration - Work closely with application developers, cybersecurity teams, and systems engineers to translate application requirements into resilient, highly available network architectures.
  • Troubleshooting & Optimization - Perform advanced network troubleshooting, traffic analysis, packet capture, and performance tuning for complex application delivery workflows.
  • Documentation & Standards - Develop and maintain comprehensive architectural documentation, standard operating procedures, and technical blueprints.
  • Compliance & Documentation: Ensure all tools comply with DoW STIGs and IL5/IL6/IL7 protocols; develop and maintain architectural documentation and compliance traceability.


Basic Qualifications
  • Security Clearance: Active Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) required at time of hire.
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical discipline and 12 - 15 years of prior relevant experience or Masters with 10 - 13 years of prior relevant experience. May possess a Doctorate in technical domain. Specific experience, education and training may be considered in lieu of degree.
  • Certification: Active IAT Level II certification (e.g., Security+ CE, CySA+, GSEC, or SSCP) required.
  • Cisco CCNA Certification (CCNP or CCIE Preferred).
  • Citizenship: United States Citizenship is required.
  • Experience Level: Minimum of 8+ years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture, with a dedicated focus on application delivery networks (ADN).
  • F5 Expertise: Deep, demonstrable expertise in F5 BIG-IP platforms, specifically configuring, upgrading, and migrating
  • LTM and GTM/F5 DNS environments.
  • Infoblox / DDI Mastery: Extensive experience designing and operating enterprise-class Infoblox DDI environments, including Grid architecture and seamless IPAM integration.
  • RSA (Multi factor authentication) experience.
  • Core Networking: Mastery of OSI model layers 2-7, TCP/IP, routing protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF), and solid experience with SSL/TLS offloading and certificate management.
  • Leadership: Experience leading technical working groups and directing the efforts of adjacent infrastructure and development teams.
  • Operational Experience: Prior experience working within a DoW/DoD Operations Center (NOC/SOC) or supporting mission-critical systems and networks.
  • Communication: Must be able to present designs, plans, and analyses of alternatives to technical leadership boards for approvals.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Automation Skills Experience with network automation and orchestration tools (e.g., Ansible, Python, Terraform, or
  • F5 AS3) is highly desired.
  • Certifications: F5 Certified Technology Specialist (F5-CTS) or Solution Expert (F5-CSE), and Infoblox Core DDI certifications are strongly preferred.

Original Posting:
July 28, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:
Pay Range $116,350.00 - $210,325.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Explore Career Opportunities

Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

Innovation and Professional Growth

At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

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Leidos Holding is hiring! Explore job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Leidos Holding looks for driven, curious, and innovative individuals to join their team. Positions are available across various disciplines and experience levels.

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Networking and Career Advancement

Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

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Discover the exciting career opportunities at Leidos Holding today. With a commitment to employee growth, innovation, and diversity, Leidos Holding is the perfect place to advance your career. Check out the latest job listings and find your perfect fit at Leidos Holding.

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