Network Engineer, Principal

Helmerich & Payne•Tulsa, OK

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

This is a senior, hands-on engineering role critical to the implementation, operation, and optimization of our global network infrastructure. The Principal Network Engineer will design and support enterprise global networks across complex hybrid environments. The ideal candidate will combine deep technical expertise with a strict adherence to IT governance, ensuring all network architecture aligns with industry standards, security frameworks, and business objectives. You will serve as a technical authority within a collaborative network team responsible for maintaining large-scale enterprise platforms, with a paramount focus on ensuring rig connectivity and continuity of drilling operations globally.

Requirements

10+ years of progressive enterprise networking experience within highly regulated environments, including at least 10 years serving in a Lead Network Engineer capacity required
Active Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification is required.
Expert-level proficiency in Cisco technologies, specifically Cisco ACI.
Deep understanding of dynamic routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), route redistribution, policy-based routing, and BGP peering in hybrid cloud environments.
5+ years of hands-on operational experience with Aruba and Meraki solutions (including Aruba SD-WAN and Meraki Wireless).
Deep understanding of SDWAN with experience in Juniper SDWAN and Aruba SDWAN a plus.
Proven expertise in designing, configuring, and operating F5 load balancing platforms.
Extensive experience with AAA services (RADIUS, TACACS+) and seamless integration with identity platforms such as Cisco ISE or Azure AD.
Strong understanding of Internet edge design, BGP multihoming, cloud-based firewalls, and DDoS mitigation.
Deep understanding of heavy-duty Ethernet technologies (1/10/40/100GbE, VLANs, VXLAN, 802.1Q trunking) and foundational enterprise services including DNS, DHCP, NTP, and IPAM platforms (e.g., Infoblox).
Advanced proficiency in network packet analysis and performance diagnostics using enterprise tools such as Wireshark, LiveAction, and Cisco Stealthwatch.
In-depth knowledge of the Purdue model and other Zero Trust best practices
Approaches complex network anomalies using a logical, methodical sequence. Identifies root causes accurately and mitigates risks while anticipating the long-term implications of technical decisions.
Highly conscientious regarding technical accuracy and documentation. Focuses on delivering complete, high-quality work that aligns with organizational goals and compliance requirements.
Adapts professionally to operational shifts. Manages uncertainty effectively and proactively prepares contingency plans for critical infrastructure systems.
Communicates highly technical concepts clearly and accurately, both orally and in writing, to a variety of stakeholders. Capable of preparing, leading, and following up on structured business meetings to ensure strategic outcomes are met.

Nice To Haves

Additional experience in energy sectors and experience with IT/OT networking a plus.
CCIE a plus.
Degree in MIS, Computer Science, or similar a plus.
Cloud certifications in Azure, GCP, or AWS a plus.
Experience applying infrastructure-as-code principles and utilizing scripting tools (Python, Ansible, Terraform) to standardize deployments and automate routine network operations.

Responsibilities

Design, configure, and maintain enterprise-grade network infrastructure (Cisco, Aruba, Meraki, and F5 platforms) across global data centers, cloud environments, and remote operating sites in strict adherence to approved design standards.
Ensure high availability, redundancy, and performance through proactive capacity planning and monitoring. Oversee complex hybrid WAN architectures, including MPLS, SDWAN, DIA, and LEO Satellite, optimizing traffic flow while maintaining security policies.
Drive network security posture through macro/micro-segmentation, Zero Trust Network Architecture (ZTNA), and regular compliance audits. Manage incident response protocols and ensure network modifications strictly follow formal IT change management processes.
Responsible for precise, comprehensive documentation of network topologies, configurations, disaster recovery plans, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Champion the adoption of best practices and standardization across the networking team.
Lead the technical execution of cross-functional infrastructure projects and data center migrations. Mentor peers and junior engineers, conducting structured technical reviews to ensure architectural integrity and professional development.
Systematically evaluate emerging technologies, perform risk assessments, understands ROI and fiscal responsibilities, and present formal business cases and solution proposals to IT leadership to improve network scalability and security.
Lead P1 and P2 level outage incidents and be on call for those outages to lead the troubleshooting and restoration of services to ensure timely resolution, root cause analysis, and corrective actions for future prevention.
Model the highest levels of accountability and excellence within the team, showcasing a strong work ethic and a focus on doing what’s right while pushing forward through iterative improvements.
Work closely with a global team through virtual collaboration as well as being a hybrid employee.
Maintain strong vendor relationships with the network vendors and OEM’s to ensure lifecycle management, fiscal insight, and support models through healthy customer-vendor relations including recurring check-ins, business reviews, etc.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
Flexible Spending or Health Savings Accounts
401k match
Paid Leave Plans
Parental & Adoption Benefits
Disability Coverage
Employee Assistance Program
Educational Assistance
Learning & Development Opportunities
Flex-scheduling available for qualifying positions to achieve work-life integration