Network Architect

Role: Senior Network Architect - Network Segmentation Specialist

Location: Northfield IL 60093 (100% Onsite)

Role Summary

The Senior Network Architect will lead the design and implementation of enterprise-wide network segmentation strategies to strengthen cybersecurity, improve operational resilience, and support Zero Trust architecture initiatives. The role requires deep expertise in segmentation technologies, software-defined networking, enterprise security architecture, and large-scale transformation programs.

Key Responsibilities

Network Segmentation Strategy

• Define and implement Network and Security Segmentation roadmaps across data centers, cloud, campus, and OT environments.
• Develop macro and micro-segmentation architectures aligned with Zero Trust principles.
• Create security zones, trust boundaries, and segmentation policies.

Architecture & Design

• Design enterprise network architectures leveraging technologies such as: 
• Cisco ACI
• VMware NSX
• Illumio
• Guardicore/Akamai Segmentation
• Palo Alto Networks
• Cisco Secure Firewall
• SD-WAN Platforms
• Develop logical, physical, and security architecture designs.

Security & Compliance

• Ensure segmentation architecture supports regulatory and compliance requirements.
• Collaborate with Security Architects, SOC teams, and Risk teams to reduce lateral movement risks.
• Conduct network risk assessments and segmentation effectiveness reviews.

Cloud & Hybrid Connectivity

• Design segmentation controls across AWS, Azure, and hybrid environments.
• Integrate cloud-native security controls and security groups into enterprise segmentation strategies.

Program Leadership

• Lead complex network transformation and modernization initiatives.
• Provide technical leadership and architecture governance.
• Develop implementation runbooks, migration strategies, and operational models.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Networking, Engineering, or related field.
• 12+ years of networking experience.
• 5+ years designing enterprise segmentation solutions.
• Experience in large-scale data center and cloud transformation programs.

Preferred Certifications

• CCIE (Enterprise Infrastructure or Security)
• CISSP
• PCNSE
• VMware VCAP-NV
• Azure Network Engineer Associate
• AWS Advanced Networking Specialty

Key Technical Skills

• Network Segmentation
• Zero Trust Architecture
• Micro-Segmentation
• Software Defined Networking (SDN)
• Cisco ACI
• VMware NSX
• Illumio
• Palo Alto Networks
• Enterprise Routing & Switching
• Data Center Networking
• Cloud Networking
• Security Architecture

Success Measures

• Reduction in attack surface and lateral movement risks.
• Successful implementation of Zero Trust segmentation controls.
• Compliance adherence across regulated environments.
• Improved network visibility and policy governance.
• Successful delivery of large-scale segmentation transformation programs.

Desired Leadership Competencies

• Executive stakeholder management
• Strategic architecture planning
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Program governance
• Technical mentoring
• Vendor and partner management