Enterprise Network Architect job at Piper Companies in Alexandria, VA

Title: Enterprise Network Architect (Secret Clearance Required) Location: Alexandria, Virginia United States Work Type: Hybrid Job ID: 156048 Job Description: Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking an Enterprise Network Architect to lead the design, automation, and implementation of secure, scalable, and high-performance enterprise network solutions. This is a long-term opportunity and is hybrid, with on-site work in Alexandria, VA as needed. This position requires an active Secret clearance Responsibilities for the Enterprise Architect include: Engage with clients to understand business requirements and translate them into tailored network architecture solutions Assess existing infrastructure for optimization opportunities in scalability, resiliency, and security Design, document, and present end-to-end enterprise network architectures across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments Lead implementation efforts and ensure deployments align with design specifications and best practices Drive adoption of network automation, infrastructure-as-code (IaC), and orchestration frameworks (e.g., Ansible, Terraform, Python) Develop and maintain automated configuration management and CI/CD pipelines for network deployments Standardize network architectures and create reusable templates to streamline deployments Collaborate with internal teams, vendors, and partners to deliver integrated solutions aligned with client outcomes Provide mentorship and technical leadership on automation tools and emerging technologies Research and evaluate technologies such as SDN, SASE, Zero Trust, NFV, and cloud-native networking Serve as a trusted advisor during technical discussions and architecture reviews Troubleshoot complex network and automation issues, driving root cause analysis and resolution Required Qualifications for the Enterprise Architect include: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related field (preferred) 7+ years of experience in network architecture or engineering Proven experience designing and implementing enterprise-grade network infrastructures (on-premises, cloud, hybrid) Strong knowledge of networking protocols and technologies (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, QoS, VPNs, SD-WAN) Expertise in network security design (firewalls, segmentation, access control) Hands-on experience with automation tools (Ansible, Python, Terraform, NetBox, Nornir, REST APIs) Experience integrating automation into CI/CD processes Familiarity with cloud networking (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and hybrid connectivity Exposure to SDN, SASE, Zero Trust, and microsegmentation Strong documentation, presentation, and communication skills Certifications: Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or equivalent (required) Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) or equivalent (preferred) Network automation or DevNet certifications (e.g., Cisco DevNet Professional) a plus Preferred Skills: Experience with infrastructure-as-code and DevOps methodologies Familiarity with monitoring and telemetry tools (Prometheus, Grafana, Splunk, Cisco ThousandEyes) Understanding of containerized networking (Docker, Kubernetes, CNI plugins) Ability to lead architecture discussions and influence technology strategy Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and project management skills Compensation: $160,000-180,000 annual salary, depending on experience Full benefits: medical/dental/vision, 401k, PTO, paid holidays, sick leave as required by law #LI-CW2 Apply tot his job Apply To this Job