Network Architect

Description:
Eliassen Group is searching for a Network Architect for a contract to hire role. The Network Architect will serve as the lead engineer responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining a secure, scalable, and high-availability enterprise network environment using Cisco technologies. This 100% on-site role involves hands-on architecture work, network modernization (including SD-WAN and zero-trust access), and oversight of public safety systems and remote connectivity. The position requires advanced knowledge of routing protocols (OSPF, BGP, EIGRP), firewalls, VPNs, and wireless infrastructure, along with strong security and compliance experience (CJIS, NIST). As a Subject Matter Expert, the architect will also mentor IT staff, lead incident response efforts, and support audit readiness. A CCNP is required, with CCIE and other security certifications preferred.

Location: 100% On-Site - Tustin, CA 92780 area

Duration: 12-month Contract to hire

Work Hours: 40 hours per week; overtime, weekends, and after-hours support required as needed

Travel: Local travel to agency locations may be required

Equipment: Department-issued laptop/tools

Security Requirement: Must pass the department background check

Due to client requirements, we can only consider W2 employment.

Rate: ($80/hr. - 90/hr. W2)

Responsibilities:
Responsibilities:

Network Architecture & Design

• Design and maintain a secure, scalable, and high-availability enterprise network leveraging Cisco technologies.
• Develop network segmentation, VLAN strategies, and routing topologies (OSPF, BGP, EIGRP, etc...).
• Plan and implement architecture for remote site connectivity, mobile units, data centers, and public safety systems.
• Lead modernization efforts including SD-WAN, wireless upgrades, and zero-trust network access.

Implementation, Operations & Support

• Serve as the hands-on lead engineer for network deployment, upgrades, and incident response.
• Configure and manage Cisco switches, routers, firewalls, WLCs, and wireless endpoints.
• Design and manage VPNs, QoS, ACLs, network monitoring, and logging systems (SolarWinds, NetFlow, SNMP).
• Act as the Level 4 escalation point for complex network issues and performance tuning.

Security, Compliance & Audit Readiness

• Enforce network security controls aligned with CJIS, NIST, and department policy.
• Implement and maintain firewall rulesets, NAC solutions (e.g., Cisco ISE), and endpoint access policies.
• Support the cybersecurity team in incident detection, forensic analysis, and mitigation strategies.
• Provide documentation and evidence for security audits and compliance reviews.

SME Leadership & Staff Development

• Serve as the department's Subject Matter Expert (SME) on enterprise networking, guiding decisions across IT, public safety systems, and operations.
• Train, coach, and mentor internal IT staff, including junior and mid-level network technicians.
• Lead structured knowledge transfer sessions, hands-on training, and real-time coaching during support and implementation activities.
• Create SOPs, how-to guides, and step-by-step documentation tailored for ongoing use by internal staff.
• Support staff in preparation for certification paths (e.g., CCNA/CCNP) if desired.

Experience Requirements:
Required Qualifications

8+ years of enterprise network architecture and engineering experience.

Extensive experience designing and managing Cisco-based network environments, including:

1. Cisco Catalyst, Nexus, ISR/ASR
2. Cisco ASA, Firepower/FTD firewalls
3. Cisco ISE, AnyConnect, VPN solutions
4. Routing protocols: OSPF, BGP, EIGRP
5. Wireless networks: WLCs, Aironet/Meraki

• Deep understanding of public safety network requirements, including QoS for voice/video systems.
• Hands-on experience integrating with Public Safety Applications and Systems.
• Experience training or mentoring technical teams in enterprise environments.
• Strong documentation and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working in law enforcement, government, or public safety IT environments.
• Familiarity with CJIS, NIST, FedRAMP, or state compliance frameworks.
• Certifications (preferred):

1. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) - Required
2. Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) - Preferred
3. Cisco Certified Specialist - Security or Wireless - Bonus
4. CISSP, Fortinet NSE, Aruba, or other relevant credentials - Bonus

Education Requirements:
Bachelor's degree or additional years of experience required

Skills, experience, and other compensable factors will be considered when determining pay rate. The pay range provided in this posting reflects a W2 hourly rate; other employment options may be available that may result in pay outside of the provided range.

W2 employees of Eliassen Group who are regularly scheduled to work 30 or more hours per week are eligible for the following benefits: medical (choice of 3 plans), dental, vision, pre-tax accounts, other voluntary benefits including life and disability insurance, 401(k) with match, and sick time if required by law in the worked-in state/locality.
Please be advised- If anyone reaches out to you about an open position connected with Eliassen Group, please confirm that they have an Eliassen.com email address and never provide personal or financial information to anyone who is not clearly associated with Eliassen Group. If you have any indication of fraudulent activity, please contact

About Eliassen Group:

Eliassen Group is a leading strategic consulting company for human-powered solutions. For over 30 years, Eliassen has helped thousands of companies reach further and achieve more with their technology solutions, financial, risk & compliance, and advisory solutions, and clinical solutions. With offices from coast to coast and throughout Europe, Eliassen provides a local community presence, balanced with international reach. Eliassen Group strives to positively impact the lives of their employees, clients, consultants, and the communities in which they operate.

Eliassen Group 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.

Don't miss out on our referral program! If we hire a candidate that you refer us to then you can be eligible for a $1,000 referral check!