What are the responsibilities and job description for the Network Engineer position at Haystack?
Network Engineer | Fayetteville, NC | Hybrid | $77,500 - $176,000
We're working with a premier global defense consultancy and technology powerhouse on this exciting opportunity. We are looking for a mission-driven Network Engineer to architect and secure the critical infrastructure that protects our nation's defense systems using advanced routing, switching, and encryption technologies.
As a key technical advisor, you’ll tackle complex network challenges across the DoD landscape, from optimizing MPLS transport layers to deploying cutting-edge Palo Alto firewalls. This is your chance to bridge the gap between legacy reliability and modern cloud migration while supporting high-stakes national security missions.
The Role
We're working with a premier global defense consultancy and technology powerhouse on this exciting opportunity. We are looking for a mission-driven Network Engineer to architect and secure the critical infrastructure that protects our nation's defense systems using advanced routing, switching, and encryption technologies.
As a key technical advisor, you’ll tackle complex network challenges across the DoD landscape, from optimizing MPLS transport layers to deploying cutting-edge Palo Alto firewalls. This is your chance to bridge the gap between legacy reliability and modern cloud migration while supporting high-stakes national security missions.
The Role
- Design, implement, and maintain high-availability network architectures involving Cisco hardware, virtual routing and forwarding (VRF), and gateway protocols.
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex connectivity and security issues across LAN/WAN environments using SolarWinds and advanced root cause analysis.
- Integrate critical encryption gear and tactical network components to ensure mission-ready communication for defense agencies.
- Modernize client operations by leading cloud migration initiatives and optimizing optical infrastructure networking.
- Drive network security by managing software and hardware firewalls, ensuring robust protection against evolving adversaries.
- Active TS/SCI Clearance (Required) and the ability to obtain a Security certification within 60 days.
- Master-level understanding of the TCP/IP stack, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), and switching (VLANs, STP, Port-channeling).
- Proven experience with Cisco hardware, Palo Alto firewalls, and Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS).
- Current industry certification such as CCNA, CCNP (Enterprise/Routing & Switching), JNCIA, or JNCIP.
- Bonus points for experience with Network Automation (Python, Ansible, Terraform) or Software-Defined Networking (Cisco ACI, SD-WAN).
- Competitive salary range of $77,500 - $176,000 with recognized performance awards.
- Comprehensive benefits including professional development, tuition assistance, and robust retirement programming.
- A people-first hybrid culture that balances flexible work with high-impact collaborative environments.
- Direct involvement in national security projects that utilize the latest in emerging network technology.
Salary : $77,500 - $176,000