Principle Network Architect

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce has a client that is seeking a Principle Network Architect in New York, NY.

Summary:
Our client is seeking a Principle Network Architect to serve as the senior technical authority shaping enterprise network architecture, technology strategy, and major transformations across a complex global environment. This role operates at the intersection of enterprise architecture, advanced engineering, and technology strategy-defining long-term direction while remaining deeply comfortable engaging in complex technical implementation decisions.

Key Responsibilities:
* Architecture & Strategy: Define and evolve enterprise network principles, reference architectures, and standards; Establish data center fabric strategies utilizing Cisco ACI and ensure seamless integration with the wider enterprise network
* Technical Authority: Lead architecture reviews and technical design discussions for major implementations, migrations, and modernization programs
* Escalation Support: Provide architecture-level guidance on highly complex or escalated network issues, ensuring durable remediation strategies
* Vendor & RFP Leadership: Lead complex RFPs, technology evaluations, and supplier selections; Critically evaluate and challenge vendor architectures to align with enterprise requirements
* Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with engineering, operations, cybersecurity, and business teams to deliver scalable, resilient, and secure network solutions; Mentor engineers and junior architects

REQUIREMENTS:
* Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience
* Experience: 8+ years of network architecture/design experience and 15+ years of overall enterprise networking experience
* Core Technologies: Hands-on architecture and implementation experience with Cisco ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure), Cisco IOS, enterprise wireless, Cisco Catalyst Center/DNAC, and Cisco SDA
* ACI Expertise: Deep knowledge of data center fabric architecture, including designing, deploying, and managing complex Cisco ACI environments (Multi-Pod, Multi-Site, or Tenant/Application profiles)
* Domain Breadth: Comprehensive expertise across LAN, WAN, data center, wireless, network security, and cloud connectivity
* Leadership & Influence: Proven ability to lead high-level technical discussions, build consensus across diverse stakeholders, and challenge vendor recommendations through technical reasoning

Preferred Qualifications:
* Certifications: Recognized industry credentials demonstrating advanced expertise, such as a CCIE (Data Center or Enterprise Infrastructure) or equivalent
* Environment: Experience evolving large-scale networks within manufacturing or mission-critical environments where operational continuity is vital
* Transformations: A track record of leading enterprise-wide migrations, segmentation, and software-defined network adoptions (Cisco ACI, SD-WAN)
* Secondary Tech: Familiarity with manufacturing/OT networking, firewalls, Cisco ISE, IPAM, private 5G, ServiceNow, and observability platforms
* Automation: Ability to leverage network automation and infrastructure-as-code (e.g., Python, Ansible, or Terraform for Cisco ACI provisioning) to improve network scalability and efficiency

The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.

We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.

Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.

This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.

Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

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