We are actively hiring a
Senior Network / Communications Engineer (Hybrid Cloud + OCONUS Connectivity)with a TS/SCI clearance and polygraph to support a program in
Chantilly, VA. In this role, you will design, deploy, and operate the program's global communications network that connects AWS-hosted cloud hubs to country hubs and remote Points of Entry (POEs) across dozens of nations. This role is a hands-on engineer/architect responsible for cloud networking in AWS (VPC design, Transit Gateway, routing, VPN/Direct Connect where applicable, security controls, virtual firewalls such as vASA, and infrastructure-as-code using Terraform) as well as field-deployable connectivity solutions (VSAT, line-of-sight, and terrestrial ISP integrations) in austere environments. The engineer ensures secure, resilient, and observable connectivity for mission-critical data flows, partners with NOC/SRE teams to implement monitoring and rapid incident response (including network observability tooling), produces network standards/baselines and as-built documentation, and supports 30-40% OCONUS travel for site surveys, cutovers, and high-priority restorations. This role specializes in designing and deploying functional networks and communications systems in austere environments, utilizing non-traditional methods such as satellite, broadband over powerline, and line-of-sight technologies.
What You'll Be Doing:- Design and develop communications products and network technologies to meet operational requirements.
- Configure and install communications and networking equipment, including VSAT, Cisco routers, switches, firewalls, and interconnecting media such as Cat5/6, coaxial, and fiber optics (single and multi-mode).
- Coordinate with telecommunications and Internet Service Provider (ISP) vendors to maintain and troubleshoot purchased technologies.
- Monitor and manage network performance using Network Operations Center (NOC) tools to ensure optimal functionality.
- Conduct testing of network designs and implement enhancements and upgrades to improve system performance.
- Develop standards and baselines for program network equipment, ensuring compliance with the latest security updates and guidance.
- Create comprehensive documentation for processes and procedures, including logical and physical network diagrams, for presentation to government stakeholders.
- Evaluate and report on emerging communications technologies to enhance network capabilities.
- Plan and execute temporary duty assignments (TDYs), including equipment procurement, shipping, and travel coordination for OCONUS network maintenance and installations.
- Provide training on network and VSAT systems to ensure team members are aware of cyber threats, mitigation techniques, and best practices.
Required Skills:- Bachelor's degree and at least 10+ years of related professional experience or equivalent experience in lieu of degree.
- Proficiency in configuring and installing network hardware and software, including routers, switches, firewalls, and other interconnection devices.
- Strong AWS networking experience (including IaC/Terraform), demonstrated global WAN/field deployment experience (VSAT/LOS/ISP coordination), and proven ability to troubleshoot complex hybrid network issues under uptime constraints.
- Experience working with various connectivity media, such as Cat5/6, coaxial, and fiber optics.
- Knowledge of network architecture design, including cost/benefit analysis and hardware/software selection.
- Familiarity with austere environment communications solutions, including satellite and line-of-sight technologies.
- Ability to troubleshoot and resolve network issues in real-time.
- Strong documentation skills, including the ability to create detailed engineering specifications and network diagrams.
- 30-40% International Travel
- Must possess an active passport or ability to obtain immediately upon hire.
Desired Skills:- Experience traveling to OCONUS locations, particularly developing countries and conflict zones, for network installation and maintenance.
- Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and techniques for mitigating threats.
- Familiarity with VSAT systems and training methodologies.
