Remote- Network Architect

Network Architect

LOCATION: Remote with occasional travel (BUT first month in onsite Sacramento CA)

 

REQUIRED SKILLS

Please see below

 

Role Overview

Client is seeking a senior‑level Network Architect to lead the design and execution of network infrastructure for a new Sacramento casino project. This role will support a “mini‑greenfield” environment, standing up a new, secure, and resilient network while managing integration and cutover from an existing corporate ecosystem.

This is a true architecture role—ideal for a hands‑on architect who can independently assess a complex environment, define best‑practice architecture, identify risks, and lead cutover planning without being directed step‑by‑step.

Key Responsibilities

Network Architecture & Design

Lead end‑to‑end network architecture design for a new casino environment, including:
Firewalls
Core networking
VMware infrastructure
Active Directory and domain services
DNS, DHCP, time services
Backup and recovery
Security integrations
Design an environment that can operate stand‑alone, while integrating with corporate systems as needed.
Apply industry best practices without relying on prescriptive direction.
Environment Assessment & Planning

Conduct an initial onsite assessment of the property, including:
MDFs and IDFs
Racks, cabling, and physical infrastructure
Evaluate the current state and define the target‑state architecture.
Produce project plans, task lists, and sequencing that clearly outline the work required.
Cutover & Risk Management

Lead or heavily support network cutover activities, ensuring continuity of critical services.
Identify dependencies, risks, and critical failure points early and propose mitigation strategies.
Be available onsite during key transition phases to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
Collaboration & Execution

Partner closely with internal SMEs, vendors, and third‑party providers.
Clearly articulate technical decisions to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
Validate designs and execution plans through direct architectural discussions (no lengthy interview cycles or unnecessary hand‑offs).
Required Experience & Qualifications

Must‑Have

Senior‑level experience as a Network Architect (not just a Network Engineer).
Proven experience with:
Greenfield builds, divestitures, acquisitions, or large‑scale environment separations
Designing networks from the ground up
Leading architectural decisions independently
Strong understanding of:
Core networking concepts
Firewall architecture
VMware environments
Microsoft ecosystem (including O365 and Active Directory)
Ability to work onsite initially and during cutovers.
Preferred / Nice‑to‑Have

Prior gaming or casino industry experience
Existing or prior gaming licenses (even expired) – significantly accelerates onboarding
Experience working with Cisco networking components (vendor‑specific expertise is helpful but not the primary driver)
Ability to support some hands‑on network tasks when required during transitions
Compliance & Licensing

Candidate must be able to obtain a gaming license and pass required background checks.
Prior licensing experience in regulated environments is a strong plus.