Network Protocol SME

SAIC • Arlington, VA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Network Protocol Subject Matter Expert to join the 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), this onsite Arlington, Virginia role simulates, troubleshoots, and optimizes complex network scenarios, focusing on Physical (L1), Data Link (L2), and Network (L3) layers, including physical medium modeling (L0).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 14 or more years of related experience; master’s degree and 12 or more years of experience; or PhD or JD and 9 or more years of experience.
• 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, 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.

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.
• Act 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.
• Analyze Physical Layer (signal propagation, modulation, and BER), Data Link (MAC protocols, switching, and VLANs), and Network Layer (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, MPLS, and IPv6) functionalities.
• 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