Senior WAN Engineer

Senior Cisco WAN Engineer (CCIE Certified)

Location: Hybrid 2-3 days onsite to Bentonville, AK

Address: 702 SW 8th Street, Bentonville, Arkansas, 72716

Duration: 12 month Contract to Hire

Position Overview:

As a Senior Cisco WAN Engineer, you will play a critical role in designing, implementing, and optimizing wide area network (WAN) solutions for our clients. You will leverage your expertise in Cisco equipment and technologies to deliver robust, scalable, and secure network infrastructures that meet our clients' evolving business needs.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Network Design and Architecture:




• Design and architect complex WAN solutions based on client requirements, industry best practices, and Cisco standards.


• Develop detailed network diagrams, technical specifications, and implementation plans.


• Evaluate and recommend hardware, software, and technologies to enhance network performance and reliability.




2. WAN Implementation and Configuration:




• Configure and deploy Cisco routers, switches, and other networking devices for WAN connectivity.


• Implement routing protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF, EIGRP) and WAN optimization techniques to optimize network performance.


• Conduct network testing, validation, and troubleshooting to ensure seamless integration and functionality.




3. Network Security and Compliance:




• Implement and enforce network security policies, protocols, and access controls to protect against cyber threats.


• Perform regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing.


• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards (e.g., PCI DSS, HIPAA, GDPR).




4. Performance Monitoring and Optimization:




• Monitor network performance, traffic patterns, and utilization using monitoring tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Cisco Prime).


• Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks, latency issues, and network congestion.


• Optimize WAN connectivity, bandwidth allocation, and Quality of Service (QoS) configurations for optimal user experience.




5. Documentation and Knowledge Sharing:




• Create and maintain comprehensive network documentation, including configuration guides, diagrams, and operating procedures.


• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and team members.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to share knowledge, best practices, and lessons learned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.


• CCIE certification (Routing and Switching or Enterprise highly preferred).


• Extensive experience (8+ years) working as a Cisco WAN Engineer or similar role.


• Strong expertise in Cisco routing, switching, and WAN technologies (e.g., MPLS, DMVPN, SD-WAN).


• Proficiency in network security principles and technologies (e.g., firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS).


• Hands-on experience with network monitoring and troubleshooting tools.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.


• Effective communication and collaboration abilities, with a customer-focused mindset.


• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.