NetWork Architect

Job Description

Northwest Regional Data Center (NWRDC) is seeking an experienced Network Architect (Advanced) to support its Tier III data center operations. NWRDC provides secure, high-availability computing services to state and governmental agencies with 24/7/365 operations, redundant infrastructure, and multi-site disaster recovery capabilities.

The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in enterprise network architecture, design, optimization, and security, along with strong leadership and troubleshooting skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead high-level network planning, design, and optimization initiatives

• Define and implement enterprise network architecture and solutions

• Translate business requirements into scalable technical designs

• Evaluate and recommend network hardware, software, and emerging technologies

• Configure and maintain routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless networks

• Monitor performance and proactively plan capacity improvements

• Troubleshoot complex network issues and develop resolution strategies

• Lead or contribute as Subject Matter Expert on high-impact projects

• Mentor junior technical staff

• Participate in emergency response efforts, including after-hours support when required

• Follow established operational processes and procedures

• Support procurement and renewal of network systems and tools

• Develop and maintain technical documentation

• Participate in change management processes

• Provide Level 2 technical support

• Ensure system security, confidentiality, and availability

• Respond to service desk tickets within defined SLAs

• Participate in CSIRT and COOP activities

• Support quality control and continuous improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years of experience OR 10+ years of relevant experience

• Strong documentation and communication skills

• Ability to analyze requirements and evaluate technical solutions

• Experience configuring and managing:

  • Routers, switches, and firewalls

  • OSPF and BGP routing protocols in large enterprise environments

• Proven experience migrating SonicWall NSA firewalls to Palo Alto firewalls

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Palo Alto Firewalls

• Experience with Cisco, Nexus, and ACI environments

• Experience with F5 Big-IP LTM

• Experience supporting multi-tenant data center environments

• Relevant industry certifications (Cisco, Palo Alto, F5, etc.)

Additional Requirements

• Must be available for on-call and overtime support

• Must be able to respond to emergency situations as required

Why Join

• Work in a highly resilient Tier III data center environment

• Engage with cutting-edge infrastructure and cloud technologies

• Contribute to mission-critical government systems