Senior Network Engineer - Lead

Company Overview

At ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our success starts and ends with our people, so we built a company where great people can do great things, with the resources and autonomy to make decisions that transform organizations. We operate as one team of diverse people, united by a passion for continuous growth and optimization. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation. www.validatek.com

Summary

Shape the Future of Defense Networks

Join our team of innovative network engineers developing cutting-edge solutions for mission-critical DISA programs at the Pentagon. As a Lead Network Engineer, you'll leverage your technical expertise and leadership skills to design, implement, and secure the next generation of defense networks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and engineering of highly secure, scalable, and resilient network solutions for advanced DISA programs, providing technical guidance and mentorship to the team.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging network technologies, conducting rigorous testing and analysis to meet stringent DoD requirements, while fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Design and implement secure application delivery solutions, leveraging expertise in F5 technologies (e.g., BIG-IP LTM, ASM, APM), and championing the adoption of best practices.
• Oversee and ensure the successful integration of Comply to Connect (C2C) principles and technologies within network designs and implementations, maintaining a highly secure and compliant network environment.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive network documentation, including design specifications, implementation plans, and operational procedures, ensuring clarity and knowledge sharing within the team.
• Collaborate closely with program stakeholders to translate operational needs into robust and adaptable network architectures, effectively communicating technical concepts and building consensus.
• Champion security best practices, ensuring compliance with DoD standards and proactively mitigating potential vulnerabilities, while inspiring a security-first mindset.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a collaborative environment of technical excellence and professional growth, empowering team members to reach their full potential.

Qualifications

• Active Secret Clearance (Top Secret preferred).
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 8+ years of proven experience in network engineering, with a demonstrated focus on design and implementation for complex programs, including experience leading technical teams.
• Expert-level knowledge of routing and switching protocols, firewall technologies, VPN solutions, and network security principles.
• Proven experience designing and implementing F5 solutions (BIG-IP) in enterprise environments.
• Hands-on experience with enterprise-grade networking equipment from vendors like Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, and Arista.
• Deep understanding of DoD security standards and STIG compliance requirements.
• Hands-on experience with Comply to Connect (C2C) implementation and adherence in network design.
• Proven experience in network design, encompassing LAN/WAN architectures, security, and performance optimization.
• Practical knowledge and skills in using tools and techniques to actively monitor the performance, health, and availability of a computer network
• Industry-recognized certifications such as CCNP, JNCIP, or equivalent (F5 certifications a plus).
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to motivate and guide/lead technical teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience supporting DoD/DISA programs in an engineering capacity.
• Expertise in cloud networking architectures (AWS, Azure) and their integration with on-premises infrastructure.
• Proficiency in network automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Terraform) and scripting languages.
• Experience with software-defined networking (SDN) principles and technologies.
• Hold relevant industry certifications such as:
  • CISSP, CASP+, CISM (for security expertise)
  • AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty or Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert (for cloud networking)
  • F5 Certified Technology Expert (F5-CTE) or specialized F5-CTS certifications
  • ITIL Foundation (for IT service management knowledge)

Posted Min Pay Rate

USD $155,000.00/Yr.

Posted Max Pay Rate

USD $180,000.00/Yr.

Salary Disclosure

Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, geographic location, contract affordability, internal equity, education, and certifications. The upper end of the salary range may be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated tenure with the company, seniority, and proven excellent performance. This includes factors such as education, certifications, and extensive/unique experience beyond what is required.

EEO Statement

ValidaTek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to verify authorization to work in the United States. Offers of employment will be contingent upon passing a post-offer background check.