Network Operations Lead

CSCI Consulting•Washington, DC

About The Position

CSCI Consulting is looking for a Network Operations Lead to support our Federal client. In this role, the consultant will be responsible for overseeing the operation, performance, and security of the client's enterprise network environment. This role provides technical leadership across network infrastructure, Zero Trust enforcement, and secure connectivity services, ensuring reliable and compliant access to enterprise systems across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments. The Network Operations Lead collaborates with Infrastructure, ITSM, Service Desk, and Engineering teams to support mission-critical operations while maintaining alignment with Zero Trust architecture principles and federal security requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
10+ years of IT experience with at least 5 years in network operations, engineering, or infrastructure roles
Demonstrated experience supporting enterprise network environments, including routing, switching, and firewall operations
Strong knowledge of Zero Trust architecture, network segmentation, and secure access technologies
Experience with Cisco networking technologies, Palo Alto firewalls, Zscaler (ZIA/ZPA), and Aruba wireless infrastructure
Hands-on experience with network monitoring, incident response, and performance optimization tools
Experience supporting Change Management processes (ERB/CCB) and ITSM frameworks using ServiceNow
Ability to analyze network incidents and conduct root cause analysis for complex issues
Strong communication skills with ability to present technical issues and solutions to leadership and stakeholders
Eligibility to obtain required federal clearance (Public Trust)
Creativity and adaptability in problem-solving
Ability to work with clients to understand their needs
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Professional presence

Nice To Haves

Relevant certifications (e.g., Cisco CCNP/CCIE, Palo Alto PCNSE, Zscaler certifications, ITIL v4)
Experience supporting Zero Trust network implementations and identity-integrated access controls
Familiarity with ServiceNow integration across ITSM and CMDB processes
Experience with network monitoring, logging, and analytics tools (e.g., SNMP, NetFlow, Syslog)
Experience in federal IT environments with compliance, audit, and cybersecurity requirements
Background in hybrid cloud networking (Azure, Microsoft 365 integration)
Experience supporting disaster recovery and continuity of operations for enterprise networks
Strong analytical skills with ability to identify trends and drive network performance improvements
Ability to work in a team environment, as well as independently
Strong customer and vendor relationship skills
Demonstrated ability to comply with data standards and policies
Motivation to learn new technologies and methodologies that demonstrate value
Past experience working with a Federal agency
Federal network experience is a plus!

Responsibilities

Lead network operations activities supporting enterprise LAN/WAN, firewall, wireless, and secure access platforms
Provide technical oversight for Cisco routing/switching, Palo Alto firewalls, Zscaler (ZIA/ZPA), and Aruba wireless infrastructure
Ensure network operations align with Zero Trust principles, including identity-aware access, segmentation, and continuous monitoring
Oversee network incident monitoring, response, and resolution, including participation in Major Incident bridges for Priority 1 events
Coordinate network change management activities (ERB/CCB), including impact analysis, implementation, validation, and rollback planning
Manage firewall policy lifecycle, ensuring least-privilege enforcement, documentation, and compliance with security requirements
Monitor and optimize network performance, availability, latency, throughput, and capacity across enterprise systems
Ensure integration of network operations with ServiceNow ITSM processes, including incident, change, and CMDB management
Support continuous monitoring, alerting, and logging activities across network and security platforms
Coordinate cross-tower activities with Infrastructure, Service Desk, Security, and Engineering to resolve complex issues and improve service delivery
Develop and maintain network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, runbooks, and SOPs
Support network continuity, disaster recovery operations, and recovery execution in coordination with other task areas
Track and report performance against SLAs, KPIs, and operational metrics
Drive continuous improvement by identifying recurring network issues and implementing long-term solutions