Enterprise Network Architect (Secret Clearance Required)

ZP Group•Alexandria, VA

31d•$160,000 - $180,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking an Enterprise Network Architect to lead the design, automation, and implementation of secure, scalable, and high-performance enterprise network solutions. This is a long-term opportunity and is hybrid, with on-site work in Alexandria, VA as needed. This position requires an active Secret clearance

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related field (preferred)
7+ years of experience in network architecture or engineering
Proven experience designing and implementing enterprise-grade network infrastructures (on-premises, cloud, hybrid)
Strong knowledge of networking protocols and technologies (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, QoS, VPNs, SD-WAN)
Expertise in network security design (firewalls, segmentation, access control)
Hands-on experience with automation tools (Ansible, Python, Terraform, NetBox, Nornir, REST APIs)
Experience integrating automation into CI/CD processes
Familiarity with cloud networking (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and hybrid connectivity
Exposure to SDN, SASE, Zero Trust, and microsegmentation
Strong documentation, presentation, and communication skills
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or equivalent (required)
Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) or equivalent (preferred)
Network automation or DevNet certifications (e.g., Cisco DevNet Professional) a plus

Nice To Haves

Experience with infrastructure-as-code and DevOps methodologies
Familiarity with monitoring and telemetry tools (Prometheus, Grafana, Splunk, Cisco ThousandEyes)
Understanding of containerized networking (Docker, Kubernetes, CNI plugins)
Ability to lead architecture discussions and influence technology strategy
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and project management skills

Responsibilities

Engage with clients to understand business requirements and translate them into tailored network architecture solutions
Assess existing infrastructure for optimization opportunities in scalability, resiliency, and security
Design, document, and present end-to-end enterprise network architectures across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments
Lead implementation efforts and ensure deployments align with design specifications and best practices
Drive adoption of network automation, infrastructure-as-code (IaC), and orchestration frameworks (e.g., Ansible, Terraform, Python)
Develop and maintain automated configuration management and CI/CD pipelines for network deployments
Standardize network architectures and create reusable templates to streamline deployments
Collaborate with internal teams, vendors, and partners to deliver integrated solutions aligned with client outcomes
Provide mentorship and technical leadership on automation tools and emerging technologies
Research and evaluate technologies such as SDN, SASE, Zero Trust, NFV, and cloud-native networking
Serve as a trusted advisor during technical discussions and architecture reviews
Troubleshoot complex network and automation issues, driving root cause analysis and resolution