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Network Engineer (SME)

BAE Systems
BAE Systems Salary
Herndon, VA Full Time
POSTED ON 8/20/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 10/20/2026

Job Description

BAE Systems, a top-ten prime contractor to the U.S. Department of Defense, enables the U.S. government to transform data into intelligence and provides engineering, integration and sustainment support for critical military platforms and systems. Intelligence & Security provides services and products to the Department of Defense, the government, federal law enforcement officials, and troops deployed around the world.

At BAE Systems, we promote a strong, collaborative culture and provide our employees with the tools, skills and training they need to succeed. We are all about trust, camaraderie and a shared ambition to lead the world in defense technologies and national security services. We offer flexible work environment to support the balance in your life and keep you performing at your best. Be a part of a company that is part of the community; driven to improve our future and protect our freedom.

We are seeking a talented and experienced Network Engineer with a specialized focus on Firewalls, particularly with expertise in CISCO, Palo Alto, and Juniper network devices and associated management software to join our technology-based program supporting a key Government customer. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of network security principles, excellent problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to maintaining and optimizing firewall infrastructure.

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Required Education, Experience, & Skills

We are actively seeking Network Engineers with a minimum of 16 years' experience. Bachelor's or Master’s Degrees are preferred in one or more of the disciplines described below where specific skills may include the following:

  • Design, implement, and manage firewall solutions utilizing Cisco, Pala Alto, and Juniper network devices
  • Perform configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of firewall policies and rules
  • Monitor network traffic for potential security threats and proactively address vulnerabilities
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure network security standards align with business objectives
  • Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices in network security and firewall technologies
  • Ability to translate customer requirements into enterprise network solutions
  • Proven experience as a Network Engineer with a focus on firewall technologies
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment


Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
  • Strong proficiency with Palo Alto & CISCO firewall platforms, Palo Alto firewall platforms is a plus
  • In-depth knowledge of network protocols, TCP/IP stack, and OSI model
  • Experience with firewall management software such as Cisco FTD and Palo Alto Panorama
  • Experience with a wide variety of network technologies and solutions architectures is a plus
  • Broad understanding of technical principles, theories and concepts in the networking field
  • Knowledge of state-of-the-art systems engineering principles and network design concepts
  • Cloud Service Provider and hybrid cloud experience (extending on-premise networks to cloud providers such as AWS, Azure, Oracle and Google)
  • Strong proficiency with Palo Alto and Cisco firewall platforms is a plus
  • Industry certifications such as CCNA Security, CCNP Security, Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE), or similar industry certifications are preferred


Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $140690 - $239140

Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.

Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20 hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.


About BAE Systems Intelligence & Security
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts – defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team—making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you’ll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.

Intelligence & Security (I&S), based in McLean, Virginia, designs and delivers advanced defense, intelligence, and security solutions that support the important missions of our customers. Our pride and dedication shows in everything we do—from intelligence analysis, cyber operations and IT expertise to systems development, systems integration, and operations and maintenance services. Knowing that our work enables the U.S. military and government to recognize, manage and defeat threats inspires us to push ourselves and our technologies to new levels.

This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Salary : $140,690 - $239,140

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