Senior Network Architect/Engineer

GovCIO is currently hiring for a Senior Network Architect/Engineer to support critical network modernization activities for the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). This technical role focuses on designing, engineering, and executing the transition from legacy transport infrastructure to high-availability, modern enterprise architectures. This position will be located in Alexandria, VA, and will be a hybrid position.

Responsibilities

The Senior Network Architect/Engineer will serve as the core technical authority for the legacy-to-modern network migration framework. Core responsibilities include:

• Lead the comprehensive engineering, technical planning, and execution of migrating legacy T1 lines to modern MPLS networks.
• Analyze and address all routing, bandwidth, quality of service (QoS), and latency implications of shifting from T1 to MPLS.
• Configure, optimize, and manage enterprise-grade Cisco hardware, specifically Catalyst 8300 edge platforms and Catalyst 9200L switches.
• Architect and implement robust, high-availability networks utilizing Hot Standby Router Protocol (HSRP).
• Design and deploy strict dual-homed HSRP redundancy frameworks across all four (4) primary network hubs to eliminate failure points.
• Develop the foundational architecture required for eventual, seamless integration into CGOne for central network monitoring.
• Conduct technical root cause analysis and performance tuning on Cisco hardware during circuit cutover phases.
• Proactively identify architectural risks during the T1 decommissioning process and design targeted engineering workarounds.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, low-level designs (LLDs), and network topology diagrams for all four hubs.

Qualifications

High School with 9+ years (or commensurate experience)

Required Skills & Experience

• Certifications: DoD 8570 IAT Level II (e.g., Security+ CE, CySA+)
• Deep technical understanding of the structural, routing, and operational differences when migrating legacy T1 lines to MPLS.
• Hands-on engineering, configuration, and troubleshooting experience with Cisco C8300 series routers and Cisco C9200L series switches.
• Proven experience designing and deploying layer 3 redundancy using HSRP across multi-hub enterprise network topologies.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex network transition activities, including live circuit cutovers and traffic migrations.

Clearance Required: Active Secret Clearance

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Prior experience supporting U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) or Department of Homeland Security (DHS) network modernization programs.
• Familiarity with the technical requirements and data schemas needed for integrating network endpoints into CGOne monitoring tools.
• Advanced network certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE).
• Advanced knowledge of wide area network (WAN) architecture, traffic engineering, and failover optimization protocols.

Posted Salary Range

USD $130,000.00 - USD $160,000.00 /Yr.