Network Engineer - SME

This position requires an active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph clearance.

The Network Engineer – Subject Matter Expert (SME) provides advanced technical leadership in the design, implementation, and optimization of complex network infrastructures. The SME collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure secure, scalable, and resilient network solutions that align with organizational and mission-critical objectives.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Network Engineer - SME: $170,000.00 - $210,000.00

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided.  Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Network Engineer - SME Responsibilities Include: 

• Design, implement, and manage firewall solutions utilizing Cisco, Pala Alto, and Juniper network devices
• Perform configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of firewall policies and rules
• Monitor network traffic for potential security threats and proactively address vulnerabilities
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure network security standards align with business objectives
• Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices in network security and firewall technologies
• Ability to translate customer requirements into enterprise network solutions 
• Proven experience as a Network Engineer with a focus on firewall technologies 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment 
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Network Engineer - SME Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested: 

• Minimum of 16 years' experience. 

• Bachelor's or Master’s Degrees are preferred in one or more of the disciplines described below where specific skills may include the following: 

• Strong proficiency with Palo Alto & CISCO firewall platforms, Palo Alto firewall platforms is a plus 

• In-depth knowledge of network protocols, TCP/IP stack, and OSI model 

• Experience with firewall management software such as Cisco FTD and Palo Alto Panorama 

• Experience with a wide variety of network technologies and solutions architectures is a plus 

• Broad understanding of technical principles, theories and concepts in the networking field 

• Knowledge of state-of-the-art systems engineering principles and network design concepts 

• Cloud Service Provider and hybrid cloud experience (extending on-premise networks to cloud providers such as AWS, Azure, Oracle and Google) 

• Strong proficiency with Palo Alto and Cisco firewall platforms is a plus 

• Industry certifications such as CCNA Security, CCNP Security, Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE), or similar industry certifications are preferred

• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Similar searchable job titles:

• Network Infrastructure SME

• Senior Network Consultant

• Network Solutions Expert

• Principal Network Specialist

• Lead Network Engineer

Keywords:

• Network Design & Optimization

• Cisco Technologies 

• BGP/OSPF/EIGRP Protocols

• Enterprise Network Security

• Infrastructure Automation