Lead Computer Network Architect

General Dynamics Information Technology • Falls Church, VA

3d • $164,382 - $212,750 • Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Computer Network Architect designs, implements, and oversees enterprise network architectures that support secure, resilient, and high-performing mission operations for the Department of War Chief Information Officer for Special Access Programs. The role leads network engineering initiatives, develops connectivity solutions across cloud and on-premises environments, and ensures infrastructure meets performance, security, and availability requirements. The architect collaborates with cloud providers, mission owners, cybersecurity teams, and external partners to advance network modernization, integration, and operational excellence.

The position provides technical leadership, mentoring, and guidance to network engineering teams. It leads the design and optimization of enterprise, WAN, LAN, VPN, cloud, and interconnection solutions; supports workload onboarding and integration with cloud and customer network environments; and works with service providers, DISA, and stakeholder organizations to provision and maintain services. The role also monitors performance, availability, and capacity; resolves complex network issues; and ensures compliance with cybersecurity, Risk Management Framework, and network security requirements.

The position is onsite in Falls Church, Virginia, with 40 scheduled weekly hours and less than 10% travel required. The stated likely salary range is $164,382–$212,750; compensation depends on experience, geographic location, and potentially contractual requirements. A bachelor's degree is required, though additional years of experience may substitute. Candidates need 15 or more years of network engineering experience, including at least five years in an architecture or lead role, and must be U.S. citizens with a Top Secret clearance and SCI eligibility.

Requirements

• 15 or more years of network engineering experience, including at least five years in an architecture or lead role.
• Bachelor of Science degree; additional years of experience may substitute.
• Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
• U.S. citizenship.
• One of the listed certifications: CCNP, CCIE, Azure Network Engineer Associate, AWS Advanced Networking, or CISSP.
• Enterprise network architecture and design experience.
• Knowledge of routing and switching technologies, including BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP.
• Cloud networking experience with AWS, Azure, and hybrid cloud environments.
• Knowledge of WAN, LAN, VPN, SD-WAN, and network segmentation.
• Knowledge of network security architecture, firewalls, IDS/IPS, and Zero Trust principles.
• Experience with QoS engineering and performance optimization.
• Network monitoring, troubleshooting, and capacity-planning skills.
• Knowledge of DISA and DoW network architectures and secure connectivity solutions.
• Infrastructure documentation and technical design development skills.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage enterprise network architectures across cloud and hybrid environments.
• Lead network engineering efforts supporting secure, scalable, and resilient connectivity.
• Architect and optimize WAN, LAN, VPN, cloud, and interconnection solutions.
• Develop network standards, roadmaps, and technical designs aligned with mission requirements.
• Support workload onboarding and integration with cloud and customer network environments.
• Collaborate with service providers, DISA, and stakeholder organizations to provision and maintain network services.
• Monitor network performance, availability, and capacity to ensure operational continuity.
• Lead troubleshooting and resolution of complex network issues.
• Ensure compliance with cybersecurity, RMF, and network security requirements.
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and guidance to network engineering teams.

Benefits

• Customizable medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Educational assistance and eLearning.
• Internal mobility team dedicated to employee advancement.
• Rewards and recognition programs.
• Paid time off plans, including vacation, sick and personal time, holidays, and paid parental, military, bereavement, and jury duty leave.
• Short- and long-term disability benefits, life insurance, and other income-protection offerings.
• Full flex work weeks where possible.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior