Network Architect

Title: Network Architect
Location: Sacramento, CA (Preferred Locals)
ONSITE

Job Description
ALSO THEY NEED GAMING LICENSE TO GO ONSITE
Role Overview:
Hard Rock is seeking a seniorlevel Network Architect to lead the design and execution of network infrastructure for a new Sacramento casino project. This role will support a minigreenfield environment, standing up a new, secure, and resilient network while managing integration and cutover from an existing corporate ecosystem.
This is a true architecture role ideal for a handson architect who can independently assess a complex environment, define bestpractice architecture, identify risks, and lead cutover planning without being directed stepbystep.
Key Responsibilities
Network Architecture & Design
Lead endtoend network architecture design for a new casino environment, including:
Firewalls
Core networking
VMware infrastructure
Active Directory and domain services
DNS, DHCP, time services
Backup and recovery
Security integrations
Design an environment that can operate standalone, while integrating with corporate systems as needed.
Apply industry best practices without relying on prescriptive direction.
Environment Assessment & Planning
Conduct an initial onsite assessment of the property, including:
MDFs and IDFs
Racks, cabling, and physical infrastructure
Evaluate the current state and define the targetstate architecture.
Produce project plans, task lists, and sequencing that clearly outline the work required.
Cutover & Risk Management
Lead or heavily support network cutover activities, ensuring continuity of critical services.
Identify dependencies, risks, and critical failure points early and propose mitigation strategies.
Be available onsite during key transition phases to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
Collaboration & Execution
Partner closely with internal SMEs, vendors, and thirdparty providers.
Clearly articulate technical decisions to both technical and nontechnical stakeholders.
Validate designs and execution plans through direct architectural discussions (no lengthy interview cycles or unnecessary handoffs).
Required Experience & Qualifications
MustHave
Seniorlevel experience as a Network Architect (not just a Network Engineer).
Proven experience with:
Greenfield builds, divestitures, acquisitions, or largescale environment separations
Designing networks from the ground up
Leading architectural decisions independently
Strong understanding of:
Core networking concepts
Firewall architecture
VMware environments
Microsoft ecosystem (including O365 and Active Directory)
Ability to work onsite initially and during cutovers.
Preferred / NicetoHave
Prior gaming or casino industry experience
Existing or prior gaming licenses (even expired) significantly accelerates onboarding
Experience working with Cisco networking components (vendorspecific expertise is helpful but not the primary driver)
Ability to support some handson network tasks when required during transitions
Compliance & Licensing
Candidate must be able to obtain a gaming license and pass required background checks.
Prior licensing experience in regulated environments is a strong plus.
Work Arrangement
Initial onsite presence required for environment assessment.
Hybrid or remote work possible after initial design phase.
Onsite presence required during cutover and critical milestones.
Why This Role
Highimpact architecture role with significant ownership
No micromanagement success depends on architectural judgment and leadership
Opportunity to shape a new casino network from the ground up