Network Protocol SME

SAIC • Arlington, VA

17h • Hybrid

About The Position

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

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, BGP, OSPF, and MPLS WAN technologies.
• Strong C or C++ programming skills for model customization, scripting, and protocol modeling.
• Experience designing and testing complex WAN, LAN, and WLAN network architectures.
• Strong analytical and debugging skills for tracing data packets and analyzing network behavior.
• Familiarity with traffic analysis tools such as Wireshark.
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• U.S. citizenship and an active DOD Secret clearance, with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.
• Typical 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 modeling or satellite communication simulations (Layer 0/1).

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 in C/C++ to simulate proprietary or emerging protocols.
• Analyze Physical Layer technologies, including signal propagation, modulation, and bit error rate; Data Link technologies, including MAC protocols, switching, and VLANs; and Network Layer technologies, including 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