Network Architect

Network Architect

Key Responsibilities:

• Define the overall network architecture strategy and roadmap for statewide Cisco-based infrastructure modernization.

• Design WAN, LAN, and wireless solutions that meet performance, security, and scalability requirements.

• Develop high-level and detailed network design documentation, including topology diagrams, configurations, and implementation standards.

• Ensure secure integration with state, local, and federal agencies as well as cloud environments.

• Collaborate with project managers, cybersecurity analysts, and engineering teams to align designs with compliance (CJIS, NIST, etc.) and judicial branch requirements.

• Evaluate new networking technologies and solutions to enhance resiliency, performance, and security.

• Provide guidance on disaster recovery, business continuity, and high-availability network design.

• Oversee network capacity planning, performance monitoring strategies, and optimization.

• Serve as the senior technical authority for escalations during design, testing, and deployment.

• Guide the customer's engineering staff on best practices and design principles.

The initial contract is for 6 months with the potential to extend based on job performance and business needs. The selected Network Architect will be required to work onsite 3 days per week at the client's facility in East Hartford, CT.

Required Skills

Required Qualifications:

• Must be a US Citizen due to the nature of the role

• 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in network engineering and architecture.

• Deep expertise with Cisco networking technologies: routing, switching, wireless, firewalls, VPN, and network security solutions.

• Proven experience designing large-scale, multi-site WAN/LAN/WLAN infrastructures.

• Knowledge of hybrid/cloud connectivity and secure integration with third-party agencies.

• Strong understanding of network security standards and compliance requirements (NIST, CJIS, CIS Controls).

• Experience in highly regulated or government/public sector environments.

• Excellent documentation, presentation, and stakeholder communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant certifications: CCNP/CCIE, Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE), or equivalent.

• Experience supporting judicial, law enforcement, or public sector networks.

• Familiarity with SD-WAN, network segmentation, and Zero Trust architectures.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.