Remote, Enterprise Network Architect & Azure Cloud Strategy - Only W2

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced IT Consultant to develop, communicate, and help implement a comprehensive networking strategy spanning multiple geographically distributed data centers, including hybrid integration with Microsoft Azure Commercial. This role requires a strategic thinker who can translate complex technical architectures into clear plans for both technical teams and executive stakeholders, while guiding implementation from concept through execution.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor''s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent professional experience)
• 5+ years of experience in enterprise IT consulting, network architecture, or infrastructure engineering
• Demonstrated experience designing and implementing networking solutions across multiple, geographically separated data centers
• Hands-on experience with Microsoft Azure Commercial, including networking components (VNets, ExpressRoute, VPN Gateway, Network Security Groups)
• Strong hands-on experience with Cisco switches, routers, and Nexus stack (data center switching architecture)
• Experience configuring and managing Checkpoint and/or Palo Alto firewall platforms
• Solid working knowledge of BGP, AS design, and other complex routing topologies in multi-site environments
• Experience with VMware NSX and HCX/L2 Stretch for virtual network extension and workload migration
• Strong understanding of WAN, LAN, SD-WAN, routing/switching, and network security principles
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to varied audiences
• Proven ability to lead or contribute to strategy development and hands-on implementation

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience consulting with state government or public sector organizations, including familiarity with related compliance, procurement, and security requirements
• Relevant certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure Network Engineer Associate, CCNP, CCIE, Palo Alto PCNSE, CheckPoint CCSA/CCSE, or VMware NSX certifications
• Experience with data center migration, consolidation, or modernization initiatives
• Familiarity with FedRAMP, StateRAMP, NIST, or other government-aligned security frameworks
• Experience working within cross-functional teams involving both internal staff and external vendors/contractors

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and document a multi-site networking strategy connecting geographically dispersed data centers, ensuring reliability, redundancy, and scalability
• Design and support hybrid cloud connectivity models integrating on-premises infrastructure with Microsoft Azure Commercial environments
• Architect and maintain routing topologies across sites, including BGP configuration, AS design, and route optimization between data centers, cloud environments, and external partners
• Design, deploy, and manage secure network infrastructure using Cisco switches, routers, and Nexus stack environments
• Configure, manage, and optimize CheckPoint and Palo Alto firewall environments to enforce security policy across all sites
• Design and implement virtual network extension strategies using VMware NSX and HCX/L2 Stretch to support data center migration, workload mobility, and disaster recovery
• Communicate technical strategy and recommendations clearly to both technical staff and non-technical stakeholders/leadership
• Partner with internal IT teams, vendors, and third-party partners to plan and execute network implementation and migration efforts
• Evaluate current network architecture and identify opportunities for consolidation, optimization, and cost efficiency across sites
• Establish network security, compliance, and disaster recovery best practices across all data center locations
• Create documentation, diagrams, and technical roadmaps to support ongoing operations and future planning
• Provide guidance on WAN/SD-WAN architecture, VPN connectivity, and site-to-site networking between data centers and cloud resources
• Support change management processes and ensure minimal disruption during implementation phases
• Stay current on Azure networking services (ExpressRoute, VNets, VPN Gateway, Azure Firewall, etc.) and broader industry trends

“Taras Technology, LLC is an EEO/AA Employer: women, minorities, the disabled and veterans are encouraged to apply”