Job Title: Network Engineer Location: Sterling, VA Clearance: TS/SCI Poly **This position is CONTINGENT upon contract award** The Network Engineer (NE) collaboratively works closely with leadership, Platform and Operations Teams, and Mission Partners to engineer, install, operate, and maintain the WAN/MAN/LAN network interfaces, datacenter network, and other communication systems. The NE demonstrates knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, OSPF, BGP), network security, and various network technologies (e.g., firewalls, routers, switches). The NE works with the customer and Mission Partners to assist in deployment planning and onboard systems into SYSTEM. The NE ensures the SYSTEM network functions smoothly and securely. They install, configure, and maintain network hardware and software, troubleshoot issues, and provide technical support to users and IT operations support. Daily tasks include, but are not limited to • Provide design, development, and integration support to the Platform and Operations teams for network segmentation, load balancing, interface controls, and cloud networking • Plan network configurations for integration into the network, using knowledge of the performance characteristics of the systems being added to the network and the specifications for network interfaces to ensure effective integration and optimal network performance • Prepare technical proposals for presentation to the Sponsor's engineering review boards for approval prior to the addition of new technologies to the network • Perform operational and maintenance activities to include performance testing, network/Cloud troubleshooting and tuning. • Utilize array of network/satellite monitoring tools/scripts to perform detailed analysis of communications links to identify architecture, provider or environment issues to identify performance problems in the network • Troubleshoot to restore network to optimal performance levels • Composes technical documents including Design, Deployment, System specifications and system baselines, updates, user's manuals, training materials, installation guides, proposals, and reports. Includes network maps and communications architecture. • Continuously assess new technologies and best practices for innovative technical insertion to meet evolving networking strategies such as Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV). Required Skills: • Networking Technologies and Protocols: Deep understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, routing, switching, and network security protocols. • Hardware and Software: Knowledge of network devices (routers, switches, firewalls), operating systems, and network management tools. • Problem-solving and Troubleshooting: Ability to diagnose and resolve network issues effectively. • Communication and Documentation: Clear communication skills for conveying technical information and documenting network configurations. Desired Skills: • Cloud Computing: Familiarity with cloud networking services and technologies. • Network Security: Expertise in network security best practices and tools. • Scripting and Automation: Knowledge of scripting languages (e.g., Python) for automating network tasks. • Wireless Networking: Experience with designing and implementing wireless networks. • Network Optimization: Ability to analyze network performance and implement strategies for improvement. Desired Certs: • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): A foundational certification for Cisco networking technologies. • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP): A more advanced certification for Cisco networking technologies. • CompTIA Network+: A vendor-neutral certification for network fundamentals. • Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate: A certification focused on Microsoft Azure cloud networking. • Certified Network Defender (CND): A certification focused on network security.