Principal Network Architect / Technical SME

Principal Network Architect / Technical SME Position Overview The Principal Architect serves as the senior technical authority responsible for developing and architecting enterprise network solutions for our government client in regard to Network Modernization. This role leads the technical strategy, solution development, and proposal responses while ensuring alignment with Department of Air Force (DAF) requirements and industry best practices. Required Certifications & Clearance CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) CCIE or equivalent senior-level networking certification (e.g., JCNIE) CompTIA Security+ CE (active) DoD 8570.01-M IAT Level III compliant Ability to obtain / maintain Secret or Top Secret clearance Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred) Years of Experience Minimum 15 years of enterprise network architecture experience Minimum 10 years with DoD / military networks Minimum 8 years leading technical solutions for large government contracts Core Responsibilities Technical Leadership : Serve as the primary technical authority for network architecture and engineering decisions; Lead development of technical solutions; Provide technical oversight; Guide evolution of solutions to future requirements like Zero Trust Architecture; Ensure alignment with military and DoD standards. Solution Development : Architect comprehensive network solutions including Wired and wireless infrastructure, IPv4 / IPv6, security controls, high availability, performance, capacity, and scalability; Develop technical approaches for NIPRNet and SIPRNet; Ensure cybersecurity compliance including RMF controls. Technical Response Development : Lead the creation of technical proposals; Author design documents, diagrams, approaches, BOMs, and testing strategies; Clearly articulate and substantiate solutions. Stakeholder Engagement : Represent technical aspects in client meetings; Present solutions; Lead design reviews; Interface with vendors; Coordinate with teams. Innovation & Strategy : Monitor industry trends; Recommend innovative solutions; Develop strategies for new technologies like Zero Trust, SDN, and automation; Guide evolution of solutions. Team Leadership : Mentor junior staff; Review deliverables; Lead technical training; Foster engineering excellence. Required Skills & Knowledge Enterprise network architecture and engineering Network security and cybersecurity controls Wireless network design IPv4 / IPv6, QoS, high availability Network monitoring and management Military / DoD network requirements Cybersecurity frameworks (RMF, NIST) Network automation, cloud/hybrid architectures Professional Skills Strong communication and documentation skills Analytical and problem-solving abilities Leadership and mentoring Client interaction and presentation skills Organizational skills and attention to detail Travel Requirements : Up to 25% travel, including OCONUS; ability to work in secure facilities and deploy for critical operations. Performance Expectations : Develop innovative solutions; Deliver high-quality documentation; Meet deadlines; Maintain customer satisfaction; Mentor staff; Stay industry-current. Work Environment : Office, remote, on-site; access to classified facilities; fast-paced, matrix organization. #J-18808-Ljbffr