Network Lab Engineer

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce is seeking a Network Lab Engineer - Emerging Technologies on behalf of our major telecommunications client in Greenwood Village, CO.

Overview:
We are looking for a hands-on Network Lab Engineer to support an Emerging Technologies team focused on designing, testing, and validating next-generation network architectures. This role operates in a lab and proof-of-concept (POC) environment where new networking technologies are built, tested, and refined prior to production deployment. This is an ideal opportunity for a strong networking professional who enjoys working with cutting-edge infrastructure, virtualization technologies, and experimental network environments.

What You'll Do:
* Design, build, and maintain lab-based network environments for testing and validation
* Configure and troubleshoot routing and switching protocols in simulated environments
* Support proof-of-concept (POC) testing for new network architectures and technologies
* Work with virtualized network infrastructure and lab platforms
* Validate performance, scalability, and reliability of network designs
* Collaborate with engineering teams to support emerging technology initiatives
* Document lab configurations, test results, and technical findings
* Support experimentation with new networking and automation solutions

REQUIREMENTS:
* 3-7+ years of experience in network engineering or infrastructure roles
* Strong hands-on experience with routing and switching in enterprise or service provider environments
* Experience working in lab, staging, or POC environments
* Solid understanding of virtualization technologies and virtual networking concepts
* Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
* Ability to work independently in a technical R&D-style environment

Core Networking:
* Switching & Routing (TCP/IP, VLANs, STP, BGP, OSPF)
* Hands-on network engineering (build, configure, troubleshoot)

Virtualization & Lab Infrastructure:
* VMware (ESXi / vSphere)
* KVM or Hyper-V
* Virtual networking (vSwitches, overlays)
* NSX (plus, not required)
* Lab environments using tools such as EVE-NG or GNS3

Emerging & Adjacent Technologies (Nice to Have):
* Network automation (Python, Ansible, Terraform)
* SDN/NFV concepts
* Containerization (Docker, Kubernetes)
* Cloud networking (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform)

Ideal Candidate:
* A strong network engineer who enjoys building and testing systems rather than just supporting production environments
* Curious and hands-on with new technologies and architectures
* Comfortable working in experimental or non-production lab settings
* Interested in virtualization, SDN, and emerging networking technologies
* Detail-oriented with strong documentation and analytical skills

Nice to Have:
* Experience with network automation tools (Python, Ansible, Terraform)
* Exposure to SDN / NFV technologies
* Containerization experience (Docker, Kubernetes)
* Cloud networking experience (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform)
* Experience with network lab tools (EVE-NG, GNS3)

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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