Automation Engineer

ZP Group•Alexandria, VA

78d•$87,000 - $105,000•Remote

About The Position

Piper Companies is seeking a seasoned Automation Engineer to join a leading IT services supplier to federal agencies. This role is a full-time remote position specializing in creating advanced network automation solutions that enhance efficiency, security, and compliance across diverse vendor environments.

Requirements

3+ years working with Cisco networking, 3+ years experience in network automation.
Experience with Infrastructure as Code tools like Ansible and Terraform (plus YAML, Jinja2, Git).
Knowledge of TCP/IP, routing protocols, VLANs, and ACLs.
Experience with CI/CD tools (GitLab, Jenkins, GitHub Actions).
Familiarity with NetBox, Nornir, Terraform, and telemetry tools (pyATS, Genie).
Active Secret clearance
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or related field

Nice To Haves

Certifications: Cisco DevNet, CCNP, Red Hat Ansible.
Experience with Zero Trust, SDN (DNA Center, ACI, NSX).
Knowledge of cloud networking (AWS, Azure) and multi-domain integration

Responsibilities

Create and manage automation using Ansible playbooks and frameworks for routers, switches, and firewalls.
Develop Python scripts and CI/CD-ready pipelines to support custom workflows and automation projects.
Embed compliance standards like DISA STIG, DoD RMF, and C2C into automated processes.
Support large-scale deployments including config rollouts and image management.
Work with network/security groups to share knowledge, write documentation, and provide training.
Travel during build phases (typically 2-3 weeks) as needed.