Network Engineer – Secret Clearance | Vaihingen, Germany

Cambridge International Systems, Inc.; Vaihingen an der Enz; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision, life

401(k) immediate vesting

Paid time off

Relocation assistance

Bonuses

Job summary

Cambridge International Systems, Inc. in Vaihingen, Germany, is seeking a Network Engineer to lead design, development, and integration of network automation solutions using Ansible and Python. The role requires DoD Secret clearance and NATO/TE SA accreditation readiness for overseas missions.

You will mentor junior engineers, coordinate with cross-functional teams, and ensure secure, scalable network operations across government systems.

Qualifications

• BS in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field; 10+ years in Network engineering with automation focus.
• Strong experience designing, developing, and implementing automation in complex environments.
• Proficiency with Cisco and other vendors; networking protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP).
• Ansible expertise; Python scripting; REST, JSON, XML; API security.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain automation scripts and playbooks using Ansible and Python.
• Integrate automation with network management, monitoring, and SIEM systems.
• Architect and implement RESTful APIs for automation and integration with IPAM, ticketing, and security systems.
• Provide senior-level troubleshooting, incident resolution, and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Stay current with automation and cybersecurity trends and contribute to internal training materials.

Skills

Ansible

Python

REST APIs

Git

Network automation

Cisco

Security fundamentals

SIEM

Education

BS in Computer Science or related field

Tools

IPAM

SolarWinds

RESTCONF

Job description

Cambridge International Systems, Inc.

Join a dynamic global team united by shared values: commitment, integrity, and perseverance. At Cambridge, you’ll work alongside top talent worldwide, tackling some of today’s most complex and critical challenges in defense and security.

We are currently seeking a Network Engineer to support operations in Vaihingen, Germany. This is a full‑time, OCONUS position requiring an active DoD Secret clearance, eligibility for NATO Indoctrination and TESA accreditation, other requirements.

What You’ll Do

As a Network Engineer, you will play a critical role in leading the design, development, and integration of network automation solutions using tools like Ansible and Python, while collaborating with cross‑functional teams to drive efficiency, enhance system interoperability with platforms such as SIEM, IP management, and ticketing systems, and provide senior‑level support, mentorship, and strategic guidance on emerging automation and security technologies that serve U.S. government missions overseas. You will:

• Design, develop, and maintain automation scripts and playbooks using Ansible, Python, and related tools to streamline network operations and reduce manual intervention
• Integrate automation solutions with network management, monitoring, and SIEM systems to enhance operational efficiency and visibility
• Work closely with cross‑functional teams to identify high‑impact automation opportunities and prioritize initiatives that align with business and technical goals
• Architect and implement RESTful APIs to enable automation and seamless integration with systems such as IP address management (IPAM), ticketing platforms, and security event systems (SIEM)
• Provide senior‑level support for complex troubleshooting and incident resolution, leveraging automation tools to accelerate diagnostics and recovery
• Mentor and train junior engineers in network automation principles, tool usage (e.g., Ansible, Python, Git), and best practices to build team capability
• Stay up to date with emerging trends and technologies in network automation and cybersecurity; Contribute to the development of internal training materials and knowledge bases

What You’ll Bring

Required Qualifications:

• Education & Experience: BS in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field +10 years in Network engineering with a strong focus on automation and security.
• Technical Expertise: Proven experience designing, developing, and implementing automation/monitoring in complex enterprise environments.
• Experience with Cisco and other networking vendors (e.g., Juniper, Arista).
• Deep knowledge of networking protocols and technologies (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, VPNs, firewalls, load balancing).
• Ansible expertise (playbook development, module creation, inventory integration).
• Python scripting proficiency for automation, API development, and data handling.
• Familiarity with REST, JSON, XML, and API security.
• Hands‑on experience with network device APIs: NX‑API, RESTCONF, NETCONF, and vendor‑specific implementations.
• Proficiency with Git or similar version control systems.
• Strong background with network monitoring platforms (SolarWinds, Zabbix, WhatsUp Gold), including custom poller development and alert/report configuration.
• Strong grasp of security principles, including STIGs, IPsec, TLS, SSH, and vulnerability management.
• Must be proficient in using different technologies such as computers and other tools and systems pertinent to the position.
• Certifications: Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or higher.
• Must have a current and active DoD Secret security clearance.
• Proficient with modern IT tools and infrastructure technologies.

Preferred (Nice to Have):

• Experience with SIEM tools like Splunk or QRadar.
• Cisco DevNet Professional or Specialist certifications.
• Security certifications meeting DoD 8140 Intermediate or higher.
• Travel & Passport: Some overnight stays possible. Must have an active passport to support OCONUS travel and/or living requirements.

Work Environment

Compliance with vaccination and medical requirements for TDY/OCONUS roles as per Vaccine Recommendations by AOR | Health.mil

Office setting:

• Primarily an office-based role in Vaihingen, Germany.
• Standard desk/computer work with flexibility for walking and movement on site.
• Must be able to work in an office environment, sitting at a desk, looking at a computer for most of the workday.
• Work is physically comfortable; the employee has discretion about sitting, walking, standing, etc.
• May be required to travel short distances to offices/conference rooms and buildings on site.

Background & Security

• Employment is contingent upon successful background investigation.
• Drug screening may be required for federal contract compliance.

Benefits & Perks

• Medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and critical illness insurance
• 401(k) immediate vesting and match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Generous tuition & training support
• Relocation assistance
• Sign‑on and performance‑based bonuses
• Employee referral program
• Access to Tickets at Work, EAP, wellness initiatives, and more
• Referral bonuses
• Performance-based bonuses
• Community involvement & outreach
• Wellness program
• Employee referral program
• Access to Tickets at Work, EAP, wellness initiatives, and more

Join Us

If you're driven by mission, technology, and teamwork—we want to hear from you. Cambridge is growing, and this position is just one of many opportunities on our global team. Know someone perfect for the role? Referrals are welcome—both employees and non‑employees may qualify for a bonus.

About Cambridge International Systems

At Cambridge, we recognize innovation and agility grow through teamwork. By working collaboratively, listening proactively, and engaging across functions we create solutions that build on the best ideas our employees bring to the table. We are committed to one another, to persevere in order to get the job done, and to do so with integrity every time. Learn more at www.cbridgeinc.com.

We are an equal opportunity employer. Applicants and employees are considered for positions and are evaluated without regard to any protected status under applicable law or other similar factors that are not job‑related. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply for employment. Selected applicants may be subject to a background investigation and/or education verification.

We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with federal, state, and local law. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact our Recruiting Team at [e-mail].