Sr. Network Architect

Job Title: Sr. Network Architect
Location: Plano, TX (Hybrid – 2 Days/Week)
Duration: Long-Term Contract
Employment Type: W2 Only (Independent Candidates)

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Sr. Network Architect with 10+ years of enterprise networking experience to lead architecture, modernization, and strategic network initiatives in a large enterprise environment. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in designing scalable, secure, and resilient network solutions while collaborating with engineering teams, business stakeholders, and vendors.

Required Skills

• 10+ years of Enterprise Network Engineering/Architecture experience
• Strong experience with Cisco ACI, Cisco SDA, Routing & Switching
• Expertise in LAN, WAN, MPLS, SDN, Network Design
• Experience with Palo Alto Firewalls
• Hands-on experience with Zscaler (ZIA, ZPA, SASE)
• Enterprise Wireless (Wi-Fi) architecture and deployment
• Network Security and Secure Access technologies
• Experience with cloud-connected enterprise networking
• Strong understanding of High Availability, Redundancy, and Disaster Recovery
• Experience with vendor evaluations, RFPs, and technology roadmaps
• Knowledge of automation tools such as Ansible, Terraform, or similar
• Familiarity with Cisco ThousandEyes or network analytics platforms

Preferred Skills

• Manufacturing network architecture experience
• Private Cellular, DAS, and Two-Way Radio knowledge
• Experience leading enterprise network transformation initiatives
• CCIE, CCNP, PCNSE, or equivalent certifications

Soft Skills / Communication

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong client-facing and stakeholder management experience
• Ability to present architectural solutions to senior leadership
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong documentation and presentation skills
• Ability to work collaboratively across cross-functional teams
• Proven leadership, mentoring, and decision-making abilities