Principal Network Solution Architect

Job Description

This is a high-impact, high-visibility role for a technical heavyweight who thrives at the intersection of visionary strategy and hands-on execution. As the Principal Network Solution Architect, you won't just draw diagrams; you will be the primary engine driving the evolution of a massive enterprise network.

We are looking for a CCIE-certified leader who can command a boardroom during an Architecture Review Council presentation and then pivot to the data center floor to lead a complex implementation. You are a Change Agent—someone who challenges "how we’ve always done it" with "how it should be done," backed by the technical chops to prove it.

Key Responsibilities

Vision & "Ground-Up" Strategy: Define the enterprise network roadmap while ensuring every high-level design is operationally sound and implementable.

Tactical Execution: Lead the project lifecycle from initial concept through to hands-on implementation. You aren't just handing off a design; you are ensuring it works in the rack.

Architectural Authority: Create and defend Conceptual and Solution Network Architectures before the Enterprise Architecture Review Council.

Engineering Leadership: Act as the "Engineer’s Architect," providing deep-tier escalation support and technical mentorship to junior teams during critical deployments.

Modernization & Change: Proactively identify legacy bottlenecks and integrate modern technologies (SD-WAN, Automation, Zero Trust) into the existing environment.

Standards Advocacy: Ensure every new server, application, and site adheres to rigorous network best practices and long-term scalability requirements.

Required Qualifications

Expert Technical Pedigree: 15+ years of IT experience, with at least 10 years dedicated to complex network architecture and heavy hands-on engineering.

Certification: An active CCIE (Routing & Switching/Enterprise) is required. We need the depth of knowledge that only this level of certification provides.

Full-Stack Networking: Expert-level mastery of Data Center fabric, complex BGP/OSPF routing, and high-density switching environments.

Tactical Grit: A proven track record of staying "close to the metal"—you should be as comfortable with a console cable as you are with a slide deck.

Executive Communication: The ability to translate "bit and byte" technicalities into business outcomes for senior leadership and stakeholders.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in a technical field or equivalent high-level military/industry experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Modern Frameworks: Deep familiarity with SD-Access, SD-WAN, and Network Infrastructure as Code (Python, Ansible).

Transportation Industry: Previous experience navigating the unique compliance and physical constraints of the transportation sector.

Large-Scale Programs: Experience architecting and deploying for heterogeneous environments with 1,000+ nodes.

Enterprise Savvy: Knowledge of EA frameworks (TOGAF, Zachman) and Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA).