Network Engineer SME (interim Secret clearance or above)

Job Description

Job Description

Network Engineer SME
Franconia / Alexandria, VA - onsite
Must have at least an interim Secret Clearance

ALTA IT Services is seeking a highly motivated, self-directed individual to fill the role of Network Engineer SME for an existing government client. The place of performance for this contract is in Franconia, VA.

The Network Engineer SME will be responsible for ensuring the stable operation and efficient performance of data networks; monitoring and managing all network hardware and equipment, including routers, switches, and encryptors; analyzing network performance across the organization’s LANs and WANs; and identifying and developing remedies for network performance bottlenecks. The Network Engineer SME shall have a solid working knowledge of network security measures, experience with network management and analysis tools such as Solar Winds.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Setup and configure Juniper network devices like MX series routers, SRX firewalls and QFX switches.
• Design, implement, and maintain robust network infrastructures, including LAN, WAN, and VPNs.
• Monitor network traffic and performance, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and optimize network resources to minimize downtime.
• Implement and manage security measures, such as firewalls, access controls, and intrusion prevention systems.
• Inspect, maintain, and, where necessary, replace network cabling and other network-related equipment.
• Administer hardware and software upgrades for network equipment.
• Create and maintain detailed network documentation, including network topology, IP schemas, and firewall rules.
• Develop, implement, and maintain policies, procedures and associated training plans for network resource administration, appropriate use and disaster recovery.
• Perform network asset management, including maintenance of network component inventory and related documentation and technical specifications information.
• Administer and maintain user accounts, permissions, and access rights.
• Recommend, schedule, and perform network improvements, upgrades, and repairs.
• Interact with vendors, outsourcers, and contractors to secure network products and services.
• Design, configure, troubleshoot, and expand IP address schemas for a WAN/LAN network.
• Develop functional, systems, and technical requirements documents based on operational and architectural requirements.
• Perform technical analysis of IT alternatives in support of strategic modernization efforts.
• Provide expert analysis and advice on the feasibility of system designs.
• Perform detailed engineering to optimize enterprise network topologies and develop engineering design documentation to produce, install, test, integrate, and support a complete functional enterprise or processing system or subsystem.
• Provide technical support and quality control checks to ensure information systems designs and specifications meet the necessary standards.
• Troubleshoot and analyze network and communication issue and assist in their resolution.
• Perform firmware upgrades, apply patches, and conduct routine maintenance to keep network systems up to date.
• Work with other IT teams, such as security, system administrators, and applications, to ensure integrated network operations.
• Other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Key Technical Skills:
• Juniper Hardware & Software: Proficiency with Juniper routers (MX), switches (EX), and firewalls (SRX).
• Junos OS: Knowledge of Juniper’s operating system for network device management.
• Protocols: strong understating of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, BGP, and OSPF.
• Security Tools: Experience with firewalls, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS).

Certifications (at least one of these certifications is required):
Juniper Networks Certified Specialist: Enterprise Routing and Switching (JNCIS-ENT), Juniper Network Certified Internet Expert (JNCIE) or the Cisco equivalent Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Cisco Certified Internet Expert (CCIE) is required (at least one of these certifications is required)
Strong communication and written skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
• A degree in the field of computer science or other IT related discipline is preferred.
• Experience with Juniper network solutions is preferred.