Network Engineer (NE3) (Government)

AT&T is seeking an accomplished and highly skilled Principal Network Engineer to join a large government contract, serving as a senior engineer and Tier 3 technical lead for the most complex network support and troubleshooting needs. In this advanced role, you will act as the final escalation point for critical network incidents, perform deep-dive analysis and resolution of persistent or high-impact issues, and ensure the stability and security of mission-critical IT infrastructure. You will collaborate closely with the PMO to deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions that address customer requirements and evolving business needs, while also guiding technology evolution and providing mentorship to the network support team. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on large-scale government operations and play a key leadership role in advanced network support. This is a full-time onsite role based in the location(s) posted and is performed from the designated work location five days per week. No relocation is offered. Description of Job Duties/Responsibilities: Key Responsibilities: • Network Architecture & Design: Assess, evaluate, and enhance existing networking infrastructure. Architect, document, test, and implement robust network services and devices, including routers, switches, firewalls, and core network services such as DNS and DHCP. • Standard Operating Procedures: Develop, maintain, and elevate standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, reliability, and operational excellence across all network operations. • Capacity Planning & Modeling: Lead proactive capacity planning and modeling to support strategic business decisions and ensure scalability and future-readiness of the network environment. • Technology Evaluation: Conduct research and recommend innovative, cost-effective network solutions and emerging technologies that support the organization's long-term technology roadmap. • Contingency Planning: Design and execute robust contingency plans for network software and hardware failures, including strategies for isolated and major outages to ensure minimal disruption. • Consulting & Leadership: Provide expert consulting, technical guidance, and leadership to technical review boards, configuration control boards, developers, engineers, and senior managers. • Project Lifecycle Support: Drive network upgrade projects and initiatives through the complete lifecycle-design, test, deployment, and optimization-ensuring seamless integration and performance. • Compliance & Documentation: Ensure all network activities adhere to compliance standards and are meticulously documented in alignment with government and organizational policies. Required Clearance: TS/SCI with polygraph. (#ts/sci) (#polygraph) Required Qualifications: Experience: • Twelve (12) years of experience in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity are required. Education: • Bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited college or university is required. • Four (4) additional years of network engineering experience may be substituted for the Bachelor's degree. Certifications: • An IAT Level II baseline certification as defined by DoD 8570.01-M (e.g., Security+, GSEC, SSCP) is required. • CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) or equivalent certification or higher is REQUIRED. • Both certifications must be current and maintained as a condition of employment. Technical Proficiency: • Deep familiarity with all major network equipment: routers, switches, firewalls, and network services (DNS, DHCP, etc.). • Experience with installation and configuration of network devices (firewalls, switches, routers, cabling) from vendors such as Cisco, Brocade, or Juniper is a plus. • Demonstrated success leading large-scale, complex network architecture projects. Leadership & Communication: • Proven ability to provide technical leadership and mentorship across multidisciplinary teams. • Superior communication, consulting, and documentation skills. • Experience interfacing with senior stakeholders, technical boards, and executive leadership. Physical & Additional Requirements: • Ability to work in high-tempo, mission-critical environments and respond to after-hours incidents as required. • Must be able to occasionally lift up-to 50 pounds and perform work in tight spaces as necessary. • In order to be considered for this position, you must have a valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record and be eligible to drive an AT&T company vehicle. Ready to join our team? Apply today! Our Network Engineer (NE3) (Government) earns $108,000 - $215,100 yearly. Not to mention all the other amazing rewards that working at AT&T offers. Individual starting salary within this range may depend on geography, experience, expertise, and education/training. Joining our team comes with amazing perks and benefits: Medical/Dental/Vision coverage 401(k) plan Tuition reimbursement program Paid Time Off and Holidays (based on date of hire, at least 23 days of vacation each year and 9 company-designated holidays) *Pro-rated when working less than 40 hrs/wk. Paid Parental Leave Paid Caregiver Leave Additional sick leave beyond what state and local law require may be available but is unprotected • Adoption Reimbursement Disability Benefits (short term and long term) Life and Accidental Death Insurance Supplemental benefit programs: critical illness/accident hospital indemnity/group legal Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) Extensive employee wellness programs Employee discounts up to 50% off on eligible AT&T mobility plans and accessories, AT&T internet (and fiber where available) and AT&T wireline phone Weekly Hours: 40 Time Type: Regular Location: Columbia, Maryland