Network Architect

Optomi, in partnership with our telecommunications client, are seeking a Principal Solutions Architect to join their team on a contract to hire basis.

This role is onsite 5 days a week and requires a public trust clearance or the ability to obtain one if you don't have one currently.

Principal Network Architect – Federal & Commercial Solutions

We’re looking for an experienced and dynamic Principal Network Architect to lead high-impact projects across both federal and commercial sectors. In this strategic role, you'll serve as a senior technical authority and trusted advisor to key clients, driving innovative networking solutions while aligning technical delivery with business objectives.

What You’ll Do:

Serve as the lead architect on mission-critical federal projects (based in Oakton, VA), representing our organization with professionalism and technical depth.

Design and implement robust networking solutions across both federal and commercial environments.

Collaborate with project managers, SMEs, and client stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery—from scope through execution.

Provide expert leadership in:

Routing & Switching

SD-WAN

Network Automation

Juniper and Cisco-based architectures

Legacy technologies (e.g., T1 emulation/RAD), as needed

Core Responsibilities:

Lead architecture design, documentation, and governance across multiple projects.

Translate complex technical requirements into clear, business-aligned strategies for internal and external leadership.

Manage SME assignments and rotate resources based on evolving project needs.

Maintain a balanced role: approximately 60% hands-on technical, 40% client-facing.

Deliver strategic insights and solution summaries in executive-ready formats.

Ensure compliance with federal standards and client-specific regulations.

What You Bring:

U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain a Public Trust Security Clearance.

Proven success in federal government and commercial IT environments.

Strong expertise in:

Routing, Switching, and SD-WAN technologies

Network design, cloud integration, and cybersecurity best practices

Network performance tools and monitoring

Experience interfacing with executive stakeholders and technical teams.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Leadership mindset with a collaborative, solution-driven approach.

Nice to Have:

Hands-on experience with Juniper technologies

Familiarity with federal compliance frameworks and legacy systems

Prior experience managing rotating SME teams across multiple projects

CCNP/CCIE or equivalent technical certifications

Scripting skills (e.g., Python, Ansible) for automation and network audits