Network Protocol SME

SAIC • Arlington, VA

20h • Remote

About The Position

SAIC is seeking a Network Protocol Subject Matter Expert to join its Advanced Engineering Group. The successful candidate will serve as technical lead for designing, modeling, and analyzing high-fidelity network architectures. The role uses Riverbed Modeler (OPNET) to simulate, troubleshoot, and optimize complex network scenarios, with a focus on Physical (L1), Data Link (L2), Network (L3), and physical medium modeling (L0). The position is remote with travel.

Requirements

• Expert-level proficiency in Riverbed Modeler (OPNET), including discrete-event simulation, simulation execution, and results analysis.
• In-depth understanding of OSI Layer 0–3 technologies, including Ethernet, TCP/IP, routing protocols such as BGP and OSPF, and WAN technologies such as MPLS.
• Strong C or C++ programming skills for model customization, scripting, and protocol modeling.
• Experience designing and testing complex WAN/LAN/WLAN network architecture.
• Strong analytical and debugging skills to trace data packets and analyze network behavior.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Typical education and experience: Bachelor’s degree and 14 or more years of related experience; Master’s degree and 12 or more years; or PhD or JD and 9 or more years.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Riverbed SteelCentral AppResponse or NetPlanner.
• Experience with radio frequency (RF) modeling or satellite communication simulations (Layer 0/1).
• U.S. citizenship and an active DOD Secret clearance, with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI.

Responsibilities

• Create, execute, and analyze high-fidelity discrete-event simulations in Riverbed Modeler to evaluate network performance, reliability, and scalability.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in routing, switching, and transport protocols; modify existing models or develop custom models using C/C++ to simulate proprietary or emerging protocols.
• Model and analyze OSI Layers 0–3, including signal propagation, modulation, bit error rate, MAC protocols, switching, VLANs, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, MPLS, and IPv6.
• Analyze simulation results to identify bottlenecks, packet loss, latency issues, and capacity constraints, and propose what-if scenarios to improve production network design.
• Develop detailed LAN, WAN, and wireless network topologies to validate architecture before hardware deployment.
• Document simulation methodologies, scenarios, and results in detailed technical reports for stakeholder review.

What This Job Offers

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