Lead Network Engineer

NASCO•Brookside, DE

10d•Remote

About The Position

Under general direction, the Lead Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining a secure and high-performance enterprise network infrastructure. The Lead Network Engineer leads strategic network initiatives, mentors junior engineers and contingent workers, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure the seamless operation of business-critical systems. The technical lead is responsible for network architecture, performance optimization, compliance, and security enforcement across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments. This role works with a wide range of technologies, including routers, switches, firewalls, SD-WAN, wireless, and cloud networking solutions, to enhance network reliability, scalability, and security. In addition to designing and managing the network, this role drives strategic planning, proactive performance monitoring, and incident resolution to minimize downtime and ensure business continuity. The Lead Network Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring regulatory compliance (SOC, HITRUST). Collaborates with vendors and stakeholders, evaluates emerging technologies, optimizes costs, and strengthens disaster recovery capabilities to support the organization's long-term networking strategy.

Requirements

Deep understanding of enterprise network infrastructure, including LAN, WAN, SD-WAN, VPN, and cloud networking
Knowledge of networking solutions, including deployment, configuration, and management
Advanced knowledge of network security principles, including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems (IPS/IDS), and access control policies
Knowledge of cloud networking in Azure and AWS, including VPCs, ExpressRoute, Direct Connect, and hybrid connectivity
Knowledge of automation and network monitoring tools for optimizing efficiency and reliability
Advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for resolving complex network incidents and performance issues
Skills in designing and implementing high-performance, scalable, and secure network infrastructures
Strong skills in performance optimization, redundancy planning, and disaster recovery strategies
Vendor management and negotiation skills for assessing new solutions and maintaining strategic partnerships
Ability to effectively manage and secure network environments while ensuring compliance with industry regulations
Ability to mentor junior team members, fostering technical growth and collaboration
Ability to collaborate with internal teams to align strategy with business objectives and requirements
8 years of experience in designing, implementing, and optimizing enterprise network infrastructure, with expertise in managing networking solutions, securing network environments, and ensuring high availability through performance optimization, redundancy, and troubleshooting
7 years of experience developing and enforcing network policies and security best practices, including network segmentation, Zero Trust models, and compliance with industry frameworks.
3 years’ experience automating network operations, configuration management, and monitoring using scripting and tools such as Ansible, Python, and Terraform
3 years’ experience architecting and integrating cloud networking solutions in Azure and AWS, including VPCs, ExpressRoute, Direct Connect, and hybrid connectivity
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent work experience)

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of software-defined networking (SDN) technologies and network virtualization
Familiarity with ITIL or other IT service management frameworks for structured network operations
Advanced troubleshooting experience using network analysis tools
Experience with network automation frameworks for infrastructure-as-code (IaC) deployment
Experience with load balancing and application delivery controllers
Master’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field
Industry certifications required or strongly preferred: CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) or CCIE
Advanced networking certifications such as CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert)
Cloud networking certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty, Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate)
Security certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, Palo Alto PCNSE)
Cloud and DevOps-related certifications
Security-focused certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), Palo Alto PCNSE
ITIL or PMP certification for expertise in IT service management and project leadership
Continuous training and professional development in networking, security, and cloud technologies to stay current with industry advancements

Responsibilities

Leads the design, implementation, and optimization of enterprise network infrastructure, including LAN, WAN, SD-WAN, VPN, and cloud networking to ensure high performance and scalability
Deploys, configures, and manages enterprise networking solutions, including Cisco and Meraki, ensuring reliable and secure connectivity
Administers and secures network firewalls, intrusion prevention systems (IPS/IDS), and access control policies to mitigate threats and protect sensitive data
Implements network segmentation, Zero Trust security principles, and enforce compliance standards such as SOC, HITRUST, HIPAA, and NIST to align with industry regulations
Monitors, optimizes, and enhances network performance, redundancy, and disaster recovery strategies to minimize downtime and maintain business continuity
Troubleshoots and resolves complex network incidents, outages, and performance issues, serving as the highest escalation point for critical problems.
Automates network operations and implements proactive monitoring tools to improve efficiency and reliability
Architects and manages cloud networking solutions in Azure and AWS, including VPCs, ExpressRoute, Direct Connect, and hybrid connectivity to ensure seamless integration with cloud environments
Develops, enforces, and maintains network policies, standards, and best practices to ensure compliance, security, and operational consistency
Mentors junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing
Collaborates with security, infrastructure, and application teams to align networking strategies with organizational security and business objectives
Manages vendor relationships, evaluate emerging technologies, and make recommendations for new networking solutions that enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness

Benefits

Fully remote work from home
Work/life balance
Savings on commuting
Savings on work clothing
Increased time for personal activities
Choice of Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
Telehealthcare – for Medical and Behavioral visits
Generous PTO with buy/sell options
9 Company holidays
A floating day off
A day off for volunteering
Employee Assistance Program
Wellness program - earn insurance discounts or credit towards health-related items
401K Plan with employer matching contributions
Company-funded spending/reimbursement accounts to help with out-of-pocket medical expenses
Bonus and Recognition programs
Tuition Assistance
Consultation with financial planner
Basic Life & AD&D Insurance, Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance provided
Supplemental Term Life Insurance is available
Group Discount programs - mobile, technology services, etc., to help you save money
E-Learning – Comprehensive and current library of e-learning and performance support assets, available on demand and at no cost