Network Engineer

*****NO C2C OR THIRD PARTY INQUIRIES*****

Network Engineer

• Location: Melbourne, FL, 32940 - Fully on site to start; option to work hybrid once acclimated
• Duration: 4 Month Contract to Hire
• Salary: $110k - $130k

The Network Engineer is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of LAN & WAN networks, including Cisco and Palo Alto hardware and software maintenance, core services installation, and troubleshooting Satcom Direct Government and services. This role involves designing, installing, and optimizing network infrastructure across multiple locations to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The engineer also provides support for military and company personnel as needed.

Network Architecture & Engineering:

• Support the design, implementation, and lifecycle management of enterprise and enclave network systems supporting global and mission-critical operations
• Develop and execute strategic roadmaps for next-generation infrastructure, driving modernization, security, and scalability across Company’s infrastructure
• Implement and operate private, secure networks for worldwide PoPs and specialized military/government environments, ensuring compliance with stringent standards
• Deliver high availability, redundancy and scalability across Company’s global infrastructure (Amsterdam, Melbourne, Ashburn, Sydney)

Planning & Design:

• Create and maintain high- and low-level network design documentation and drawings to guide implementation, operations and future growth
• Manage large-scale IP Address Management (IPAM) for customers and provider networks
• Research and evaluate new technologies, develop test plans and proof of concept solutions that enhance performance and reduce costs
• Support technical refreshes, upgrades, and infrastructure modernization initiatives to align with business growth
• Manage project budgets and deliver cost-effective solutions while maintaining enterprise grade reliability

Procurement & Vendor Management:

• Develop Bills of Materials (BOMs) and Request for Quotes (RFQs) for enterprise network hardware, software, services
• Administer licensing, vendor agreements and renewals to ensure compliance, availability, and support coverage
• Oversee inventory tracking and lifecycle management for network components across the global infrastructure

Installation & Configuration:

• Support the installation and configuration of network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls and virtual systems across the global infrastructure.
• Ensure compliance with cabling standards, optimized rack layouts, and industry best practices for reliability and scalability.
• Diagnose and resolve complex hardware and software issues, driving root cause analysis, and corrective action to minimize downtime.

Operations & Maintenance:

• Oversee global infrastructure, leveraging monitoring systems to detect and remediate issues before they impact customers
• Provide 24/7 support for critical network events and emergencies, leading root cause analysis and restoration efforts
• Maintain accurate documentation, network diagrams, and performance logs to ensure operational continuity
• Conduct after-hours maintenance, risk analysis, and infrastructure upgrades to minimize disruption during peak business hours

Security & Compliance:

• Implement and maintain network security policies, firewall configurations, and VPN solutions to safeguard enterprise and government environments
• Configure and troubleshoot authentication, authorization, and security hardening controls across routers, switches, firewalls, and virtual machines
• Ensure adherence to security standards, while continuously monitoring for vulnerabilities and potential threats

Financial Strategy:

• Reduce CAPEX/OPEX expenditures through consolidation and optimization of network resources
• Drive cost savings using vendor discounts, leveraging bulk purchasing, and securing favorable contract terms
• Evaluate vendor sales recommendations to avoid unnecessary technology purchases

Training & Development:

• Pursue ongoing professional development through certifications, advanced training, and vendor partnerships to stay ahead of evolving technologies
• Mentor team members through technical training and knowledge-sharing sessions
• Support the adoption of new tools and methodologies by translating training and research into practical solutions for enterprise networks

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field, or equivalent professional experience
• 5 years of hands-on experience with designing, implementing, and supporting enterprise network infrastructure
• Cisco CCNP R&S and CCDP certifications or equivalent advanced networking certifications preferred

Required Skills, Experience, and Talents

• Expertise in Cisco platforms (ISR, Nexus, NCS, ASR) and Palo Alto firewalls
• Proficient in LAN/WAN protocols including BGP, MPLS, OSPF, STP, and VXLAN
• Familiarity with Linux (Rocky 8/Fedora) and network management and monitoring systems
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills with a proven ability to diagnose and resolve complex problems
• Skilled in network documentation and design using tools such as Visio, phpIPAM, or NetBox; proficient in productivity suites
• Ability to rapidly learn and apply new networking technologies, tools, and methodologies in dynamic environments

Preferred Skills, Experience, and Talents

• Proven capability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlines
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and within a team environment