Expert - Network Architect
Job Summary:
An Expert Network Architect is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing enterprise-grade network infrastructures at a global scale. This role involves leading highly complex network transformations, developing strategic roadmaps, and integrating advanced technologies such as AI-driven networking, intent-based networking, and next-generation security frameworks. The Expert Network Architect plays a critical role in ensuring the organization’s network remains highly available, secure, and future-proof while supporting high-performance business applications and services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Global Network Strategy & Architecture: Develop and implement highly scalable, resilient, and secure network architectures for multinational organizations.
- Enterprise Infrastructure Design: Architect and optimize network infrastructure across data centers, branch offices, cloud environments, and IoT deployments.
- Cloud & Hybrid Networking: Design, integrate, and manage complex hybrid cloud networking solutions in AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
- AI & Automation in Networking: Implement AI-driven network analytics, intent-based networking (IBN), and network automation tools (Ansible, Terraform, Netmiko).
- Security-Driven Network Design: Lead the adoption of Zero Trust Security, micro-segmentation, advanced firewalling, IDS/IPS, and DDoS mitigation techniques.
- Network Performance & Optimization: Conduct deep packet inspection, traffic engineering, and performance tuning to maximize uptime and efficiency.
- High-Availability & Disaster Recovery: Architect geo-redundant, high-availability solutions, leveraging multi-path routing, BGP, MPLS, and SD-WAN.
- Network Function Virtualization (NFV) & SDN: Deploy and manage software-defined networking (Cisco ACI, VMware NSX, Juniper Contrail) and NFV architectures.
- Edge Computing & IoT Networking: Design and secure networks for IoT ecosystems, edge computing frameworks, and 5G-enabled infrastructures.
- Vendor & Stakeholder Management: Engage with key stakeholders, vendors, and third-party providers to evaluate, procure, and implement cutting-edge networking solutions.
- Advanced Troubleshooting & Incident Response: Lead crisis management during network outages, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations.
- Training & Thought Leadership: Provide mentorship to junior network engineers, lead technical workshops, and contribute to industry publications and conferences.
- Skills and Knowledge Required:
- Advanced Networking Protocols: Deep expertise in BGP, OSPF, IS-IS, EIGRP, MPLS, VXLAN, LISP, EVPN, and Segment Routing (SR).
- Security & Compliance Frameworks: Strong knowledge of Zero Trust Architecture, NIST, ISO 27001, GDPR, and PCI-DSS compliance.
- Cloud & Virtual Networking: Extensive experience with AWS Direct Connect, Azure ExpressRoute, Google Cloud Interconnect, SD-WAN solutions.
- Network Automation & AI: Proficiency in AI-powered network monitoring (Juniper Mist AI, Cisco DNA Center), scripting (Python, Go, PowerShell), and automation (Ansible, Terraform).
- Data Center & Enterprise Networking: Hands-on experience with Cisco Nexus, Arista, Brocade, and Juniper data center switching.
- Telecom & Carrier-Grade Networking: Deep understanding of ISP networking, carrier Ethernet, peering, and traffic engineering.
- Wireless & IoT Networking: Advanced knowledge of Wi-Fi 6, private LTE/5G networks, and IoT security frameworks.
- Network Simulation & Testing: Experience using GNS3, Cisco VIRL, EVE-NG, IXIA, and Spirent for modeling and testing network designs.
Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Network Engineering, or a related field.
- Elite-Level Certifications: CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert), JNCIE (Juniper Networks Certified Expert), AWS Advanced Networking, or equivalent.
Experience:
- 12+ years of hands-on experience in designing, implementing, and managing enterprise and carrier-grade network infrastructures.
- Proven leadership in large-scale global network deployments and complex network transformations.
Tools and Equipment:
- Enterprise-Grade Networking Equipment: Cisco, Juniper, Arista, Brocade routers, and switches.
- Security Appliances: Palo Alto, Fortinet, Check Point, Cisco Firepower, F5 BIG-IP, Radware.
- Cloud Networking Solutions: AWS Transit Gateway, Azure Virtual WAN, Google Cloud VPN.
- AI-Driven Network Tools: Cisco DNA Center, Juniper Mist AI, Arista CloudVision.
- Network Performance & Monitoring: SolarWinds, Splunk, PRTG, Nagios, Kentik.
- Network Automation & Orchestration: Ansible, Terraform, Cisco NSO, Netmiko, Napalm.
- Network Testing & Simulation: GNS3, EVE-NG, IXIA, Spirent.
Other Requirements:
- Strong leadership, decision-making, and analytical skills.
- Ability to thrive in high-pressure, mission-critical network environments.
- Exceptional communication and business acumen to align network strategies with organizational goals.
- Passion for staying at the forefront of network technology innovations and trends.