Data Distribution Network Engineer

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Data Distribution Network (DDN) Engineer . Support a next-generation Air Force initiative delivering secure, distributed networking capabilities for real-time command and control. This role focuses on building and maintaining a Digital Delivery Network (DDN) that connects edge devices, cloud environments, and tactical platforms. You'll design and deploy resilient, low-latency networks across air, space, and ground domains—leveraging advanced communication protocols, secure transport layers, and DevSecOps-aligned infrastructure. This position is fully on-site in Hampton, VA and has Top-Secret Level Clearance.

Responsibilities of the DDN Engineer include:

• Lead the architecture, deployment, and optimization of enterprise-scale data distribution networks, ensuring low-latency, high-throughput, and fault-tolerant performance across global systems.
• Design and implement advanced multicast, unicast, and publish-subscribe frameworks using technologies such as Kafka, ZeroMQ, and custom middleware solutions.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with software engineering, cybersecurity, and infrastructure teams to align network strategies with business-critical data delivery requirements.
• Oversee performance tuning, capacity planning, and proactive monitoring of data flows, leveraging tools like Wireshark, Prometheus, and custom telemetry dashboards.
• Establish and enforce security protocols for data in transit, including encryption standards, access controls, and compliance with industry regulations (e.g., FINRA, HIPAA).
• Mentor junior engineers and lead incident response efforts for complex data distribution issues, ensuring rapid resolution and continuous improvement of operational processes.

Qualifications for the DDN Engineer include:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 15+ years of professional experience in network engineering, with a focus on data distribution and real-time systems.
• Active Security+ (CompTIA) certification, demonstrating proficiency in cybersecurity fundamentals.
• Certified Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) with strong expertise in routing, switching, and network troubleshooting.
• Current Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility , supporting secure operations in classified environments.

Compensation for the DDN Engineer include:

Salary Range: $190k-235k (based on experience)

Full Benefits Package includes health, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off.

Keywords:

Data Distribution Networks, Multicast, Unicast, Publish-Subscribe, Kafka, RabbitMQ, ZeroMQ, Middleware Integration, Network Architecture, Real-Time Data Delivery, Network Protocols, TCP/IP, UDP, Routing, Switching, Performance Optimization, Wireshark, Prometheus, Telemetry, Fault Tolerance, High Availability, Capacity Planning, Encryption, Authentication, Network Security, DoD Compliance, Air Force Systems, Top Secret Clearance, Department of Defense, Mission-Critical Systems, On-Site Engineering Support, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Incident Response, Technical Leadership, Mentoring, Systems Integration, Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, 15+ Years Experience, Enterprise-Scale Systems, HIPAA, FINRA, Regulatory Compliance.

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