Network Engineer

INFINITY SYSTEMS ENGINEERING LLC•Albuquerque, NM

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Network Engineer will support the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Space Vehicles Directorate in designing, implementing, maintaining, and securing network infrastructure for space technology experiments and mission operations. This role is critical to enabling hardware/software-in-the-loop testing environments, ground system operations, and multi-classification level network architectures supporting space experimentation and flight operations. The Network Engineer will work with classified networks, cross-domain solutions, and cloud computing architectures while ensuring compliance with DoD cybersecurity requirements and Authorization to Operate (ATO) standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in network engineering with specific experience supporting: Authorization to Operate (ATO) processes, Cloud-based ground station network security, Classified network administration and cross-domain solutions, Mission operations center cybersecurity, and Space communications systems. This position requires a proactive mindset, the ability to work in Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) and Special Access Program Facilities (SAPFs), and cross-functional collaboration to enhance the organization's security posture for cradle-to-grave space mission support ranging from CubeSats to ESPA-class spacecraft.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field required
3-10 years of experience in network engineering, administration, or related IT roles
Secret, TS/SCI Preferred
Industry Certifications (Security+, CISSP, CASP+)
Proficiency with DoD Risk Management Framework (RMF) and cybersecurity accreditation processes
Experience with cloud computing architectures (AWS, Azure, or DoD cloud environments)
Strong knowledge of cross-domain solutions, encryption, and COMSEC implementations
Expertise in networking protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, VLANs, VPNs, etc.)
Experience configuring and managing enterprise routers, switches, firewalls (Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, or equivalent)
Knowledge of space communications systems and ground station networks
Proficiency with network monitoring, analysis, and troubleshooting tools
Understanding of DISA STIGs, NIST 800-53 controls, and DoD cybersecurity requirements
Experience with network security tools including IDS/IPS, firewalls, and access control systems
Excellent problem-solving abilities in high-stakes operational environments
Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and briefings
Ability to work effectively with government personnel, contractors, and mission partners
Capability to respond to and support surge requirements with short notice
U.S. Citizenship is required.

Nice To Haves

CCNA, CCNP, CCIE (Cisco certifications)
Cloud certifications (AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Azure Administrator, etc.)
DoD 8570/8140 compliance certifications
Experience supporting space mission operations or satellite ground systems
Familiarity with hardware/software-in-the-loop testing environments
Knowledge of SD-WAN, network automation, and Infrastructure as Code (Ansible, Terraform, etc.)
Experience with Mission Operations Center (MOC) network architectures
Understanding of spacecraft communications protocols and telemetry systems
Experience with multi-classification network architectures in operational environments
Background in DevSecOps practices and CI/CD pipeline integration
Experience supporting Air Force Research Laboratory or DoD research environments

Responsibilities

Design and develop cloud computing architectures supporting hardware/software-in-the-loop testing environments for space systems
Implement network solutions for Mission Operations Centers, including connections and equipment for spacecraft operations
Configure and deploy physical and cloud-based ground system infrastructure supporting space experiments
Support disaggregated development networks and commercial ground station connectivity
Design network architectures to support space technology experimentation across multiple classification levels
Administer and maintain classified networks including SIPR, JWICS, and other specialized systems
Implement cross-domain solutions (CDS) to securely move data between different classification levels, external connections, and point-to-point transmissions
Deploy and maintain cryptographic solutions in support of secure communications
Lead stand-up, installation, accreditation, and maintenance of classified and unclassified IT systems
Support Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIF) and Special Access Program Facilities (SAPF) network requirements
Prepare and provide support to Authorization to Operate (ATO) packages for information networks and network experiments
Obtain and maintain compliance with DoD Risk Management Framework (RMF) and Authorities to Operate
Implement comprehensive cybersecurity and information assurance measures in accordance with DoD requirements
Conduct network security assessments and implement mitigation strategies
Ensure compliance with Air Force and DoD security policies, including DISA STIGs and NIST standards
Provide Level 2/3 support for network-related issues
Collaborate with IT teams to resolve connectivity problems affecting users and business applications
Document network configurations, troubleshooting steps, and resolutions
Maintain and upgrade ground system infrastructure supporting spacecraft operations and experimentation
Support antenna network integration including Space Communications Network (SCN), commercial, and AFRL networks
Provide network engineering support for prototyping and communications experiments
Troubleshoot network issues affecting flight operations, testing, and experimentation activities
Support configuration management of network components throughout mission lifecycles
Provide direct IT and network engineering support to RAPID facilities and team members
Collaborate with systems engineers, flight operators, and program managers on mission-critical network requirements
Document network configurations, procedures, and security implementations
Maintain network documentation including diagrams, procedures, and interface control documents