Unified Communications (UC) Architect

General Dynamics Information Technology•Washington, DC

11d•$186,542 - $252,380•Onsite

About The Position

The Unified Communications (UC) Architect will lead the technical design and implementation of a large-scale, global network operations and modernization contract supporting the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Technologies. The role oversees 24x7 worldwide network operations, modernization activities, security integration, service management, and customer engagement across all geographic regions. The architect will work with DT and the Program Director to define project outputs, outcomes, and adoption frameworks; lead steady-state support for the current UC environment while preparing for modernization; and evolve enterprise architecture, strategy, and roadmaps aligned with business, technology, and cybersecurity objectives. The position designs secure, scalable, automated, and AI-augmented solutions; establishes governance, lifecycle controls, and operational standards; develops architecture artifacts, implementation guidance, metrics, and telemetry-driven reporting; and serves as a trusted technical leader and mentor across the program. The position is onsite in Washington, DC, with 40 scheduled weekly hours and less than 10% travel required. An active TS/SCI clearance is required. The listed likely salary range is $186,542–$252,380, with actual compensation depending on experience, geographic location, and possibly contractual requirements.

Requirements

Active TS/SCI clearance.
U.S. citizenship.
Bachelor’s degree in a related technical discipline.
At least 10 years of technical experience.
Security+ or DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
CCIE Collaboration.
Demonstrated experience with large and/or complex network modernization efforts.
Experience designing and implementing network solutions incorporating load balancing, routing, switching, firewalls, congestion and prioritization management, and microsegmentation.
Deep understanding of and prior experience with Zero Trust Architecture, NIST frameworks, and other government standards and compliance frameworks.
Deep understanding of Software-Defined Networking (SDN), SD-WAN, container networking, virtualization platforms, and other cloud-focused network technologies.
Experience with one or more leading vendors such as Cisco, Palo Alto, Fortinet, Juniper, HPE, Avaya, or similar.
Experience with enterprise Wi-Fi design and implementations, including mesh solutions.
Experience with Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and/or Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
Experience integrating workflows and automation solutions with ITSM platforms such as ServiceNow.
Experience with DevOps and Infrastructure as Code, including Python, Git, and/or other applicable technologies.

Nice To Haves

Experience working within a government enterprise environment.
Understanding of Natural Language Processing (NLP) implementation and concepts of intent-based architecture.
Experience with low-bandwidth, high-latency locations and solutions.
Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) or similar vendor certification.
Microsoft Cybersecurity Architect Expert (SC-100), Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104), Microsoft Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305), Microsoft AI-centric professional certifications, or Applied Skills.
AWS Certified Advanced Networking and/or AWS Certified Security.
Technical certifications from other industry leaders in the network or security segment.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with DT and the Program Director to define outputs, outcomes, and adoption frameworks for project creation and implementation.
Lead the team providing steady-state support for current UC operations while preparing for modernization.
Define and evolve enterprise architecture, strategy, and roadmaps for network capabilities, aligning solutions with business, technology, and cybersecurity objectives and UC infrastructure needs.
Design secure, scalable, automated, and AI-augmented solutions for provisioning, monitoring, and operational support.
Establish governance frameworks, lifecycle controls, and operational standards for hardware, processes, and procedures.
Develop architecture artifacts, implementation guidance, metrics, and telemetry-driven reporting that promote consistency, automation, resiliency, and operational excellence.
Serve as a trusted advisor, technical leader, and mentor, collaborating with senior technical leaders and mid- to junior-career staff.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits and wellness packages.
401(k) with company match.
Competitive pay and paid time off.
Medical plan options, some with Health Savings Accounts.
Dental plan options.
Vision plan.
Full flex work weeks where possible.
Vacation, sick, personal, holiday, paid parental, military, bereavement, and jury duty leave.
Short- and long-term disability benefits.
Life insurance.
Accidental death and dismemberment coverage.
Personal accident, critical illness, and business travel and accident insurance.