Backfill: Senior Network & Systems Architect

We are seeking an experienced Senior Network & Systems Architect with deep expertise in designing, implementing, testing, and supporting complex networking and embedded systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience across Layer 2/Layer 3 networking, Linux-based systems, cloud platforms, and distributed architectures. This role requires strong analytical abilities, leadership in design reviews, and a solid understanding of secure, scalable network operations.

Network Systems Architect

100% Remote

Long Term Contract

Key Responsibilities:

•         Architect, design, and optimize Layer 2/Layer 3 networking solutions including configuration, testing, operation, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

•         Lead the implementation of advanced network architectures involving LAN, WAN, VLAN, VXLAN, IPv4/IPv6, TCP/UDP, firewalls, routing, NAT, DHCP, DNS, TLS, multicast, QoS, filtering, load balancing, and rate control.

•         Utilize extensive Linux networking and routing experience, including iptables and other core Linux network management tools.

•         Work with unmanaged and managed Ethernet switches, focusing on features like port configuration, buffer management, ATU tables, and TCAM.

•         Configure and manage wireless access points, including security and captive portal configurations.

•         Integrate with cellular and satellite networking systems, least-cost routing models, and hybrid connectivity solutions.

•         Apply in-depth knowledge of TCP/IP, LAN/WAN, VPN, and routing protocols such as OSPF and BGP.

•         Design and support IP networking environments involving VPCs, VPNs, SDN, DNS, firewalls, and load balancers.

•         Work with networking-focused OS distributions such as Cumulus Linux, VyOS, OpenWRT, DD-WRT, etc.

•         Configure and maintain commercial networking equipment including Cisco and Juniper routers, Palo Alto, Juniper, Cisco firewalls, and F5 or similar load balancers.

•         Develop networking architectures optimized for various use cases such as AV distribution/streaming, file sharing, messaging systems, ISP environments, and transactional systems.

•         Ensure network security and apply foundational knowledge of cryptography and secure design principles.

•         Contribute to the design and development of complex embedded systems, from requirement gathering through deployment.

•         Demonstrate strong analytical skills and resolve complex issues across system and network layers.

•         Lead and participate in design reviews and test plan reviews, providing technical direction and approvals.

•         Work with container platforms (Kubernetes, OpenShift, Docker/Swarm) to build distributed or web-scale solutions.

•         Document architectures and create professional diagrams using industry-standard modeling tools.

•         Collaborate effectively across teams with exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

•         Work within an Agile development environment to deliver iterative and high-quality solutions.

•         Experience with AWS Cloud Computing is a strong plus.

Qualifications:

•        10 years of professional experience in networking, systems engineering, or related fields.

•         Strong background in Linux-based networking and large-scale network design.

•         Hands-on experience with enterprise-grade routing, switching, and firewall platforms.

•         Ability to lead technical discussions, document architectures, and drive complex projects end-to-end.

•         Experience with cloud, containerization, and embedded systems is highly desirable.