Riverbed Modeler

SAIC • Arlington, VA

3d • Remote

About The Position

We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Network Protocols and Simulation to join our Advanced Engineering Group. The successful candidate will act as the technical lead for designing, modeling, and analyzing high-fidelity network architectures. Using Riverbed Modeler (OPNET), you will simulate, troubleshoot, and optimize complex network scenarios, focusing on Physical (L1), Data Link (L2), and Network (L3) layers, including physical medium modeling (L0). This position is remote with travel.

Requirements

• Expert-level proficiency in Riverbed Modeler (OPNET), including Discrete Event Simulation (DES), simulation execution, and results analysis.
• In-depth understanding of OSI Layer 0-3 technologies, including Ethernet, TCP/IP, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), and WAN technologies (MPLS).
• Strong programming skills in C or C++ 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, familiar with traffic analysis tools like Wireshark.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or 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

• Network Simulation (OPNET/Riverbed): Create, execute, and analyze high-fidelity discrete-event simulations in Riverbed Modeler to evaluate network performance, reliability, and scalability.
• Protocol Development & Analysis: Act as an SME in routing, switching, and transport protocols. Modify existing models or develop custom models using C/C++ to simulate proprietary or emerging protocols.
• OSI Layers 0-3 Focus: Deep dive into Physical Layer (signal propagation, modulation, BER), Data Link (MAC protocols, switching, VLANs), and Network Layer (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, MPLS, IPv6) functionalities.
• Performance Optimization: Analyze simulation results to identify bottlenecks, packet loss, latency issues, and capacity constraints, proposing "what-if" scenarios to improve production network design.
• Architecture Modeling: Develop detailed network topologies, including LAN, WAN, and Wireless scenarios to validate architecture before hardware deployment.
• Technical Reporting: Document simulation methodologies, scenarios, and results in detailed technical reports for stakeholder review.

What This Job Offers

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