Network Security Engineer, Senior | Top Secret w/SCI eligibility

AMERICAN SYSTEMS•Ridgecrest, CA

6d•$150,000 - $170,000•Onsite

About The Position

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is seeking a Senior Network Security Engineer to operate and secure classified network infrastructure for a Department of Defense customer at China Lake, California. The role combines hands-on Cisco network engineering and cybersecurity work to support the security, reliability, and availability of mission systems. The engineer works independently on assigned priorities and collaborates with technical teams, customers, and vendors to address operational challenges. The position supports a classified DoD environment and requires meeting applicable security clearance and customer access requirements.

Requirements

Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility and ability to obtain SAP access.
U.S. citizenship, required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.
Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field; additional relevant experience may be considered in place of a degree.
5–7 years of experience supporting enterprise networks in DoD, federal, or similarly regulated environments.
Current CCNA certification.
Current DoD 8140 IAT Level III certification, such as CASP+ CE, CCNP Security, CISA, CISSP or Associate, GCED, GCIH, CCSP, or CISM.
Hands-on experience configuring and maintaining Cisco network infrastructure.
Experience supporting or implementing the Risk Management Framework (RMF) under DoD and Department of the Navy cybersecurity requirements.
Familiarity with vulnerability management, patch compliance, and information assurance controls.
Experience supporting Solaris, Linux, or UNIX-based systems.
Experience installing or configuring intrusion detection systems, firewalls, or other perimeter defense technologies.
Experience supporting continuity of operations planning, failover testing, or system-availability documentation.
Experience integrating network infrastructure with broader enterprise systems.

Nice To Haves

Solaris or systems engineering experience; candidates with limited experience in these areas may be considered if they have strong network security fundamentals and a willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

Configure, administer, and troubleshoot Cisco routers and switches supporting classified networks.
Install, maintain, and optimize enterprise LAN/WAN infrastructure.
Monitor network health, system logs, backups, and scheduled jobs to support reliable operations.
Support remote users with equipment setup and Layer 2/Layer 3 connectivity troubleshooting.
Diagnose and resolve Cisco infrastructure, VPN, and VMware-related connectivity issues.
Perform authorized software installations and upgrades, manage licenses, and apply security patches.
Manage user accounts and access controls in accordance with cybersecurity best practices and customer requirements.
Support incident response, vulnerability remediation, and identification of potential security risks.
Maintain network procedures, technical documentation, and operational standards.
Collaborate with internal teams and vendor representatives to resolve technical and operational issues.
Work with minimal supervision while contributing to the security posture of the environment.