Classified IT Network Engineer (SM)

rand; Santa Monica (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

RAND is seeking a Classified IT Network Engineer to join the Security & Classified Operations team. You will engineer networks and infrastructure services in RAND classified environments, including SIPRNET and TS/SCI/SAP, and provide strategic technical leadership on emerging technologies.

The role requires extensive experience in classified DoD/IC environments, certifications, and the ability to lead small-to-medium projects while collaborating with cybersecurity and systems teams.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in classified LAN/WAN/WLAN and cloud solutions.
• Experience leading classified technical projects.
• Familiarity with M365, Azure, DoD environments, SD-WAN.
• Security certifications like Security+ or CASP encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Provide SME support for data, voice, LAN/WAN, Cloud in classified environments.
• Collaborate with S&CO Systems Administration and IS managers on compliance.
• Patch management, STIG application, and government inspections prep.
• Design tactical network solutions and mentor SCO staff.

Skills

LAN/WAN/WLAN

Cloud solutions

Security+

DoD/IC environments

Team leadership

Cisco routers/switches

Education

High School Diploma or GED

BS/BA in related discipline

Tools

Cisco IOS

M365/Azure

Job description

Job Type: Regular

Classified IT Network Engineer

The Classified IT Network Engineer works as an integral part of the Security & Classified Operations team to engineer networks and infrastructure services in the RAND classified environments, including SIPRNET, TS/SCI/SAP, and unclassified environments as needed. Provide strategic technical expertise and leadership in anticipating and recommending emerging technologies for classified network technologies, including the use of Classified Cloud based technology. Possess both expert-level knowledge and a breadth of experience and skill sets to develop comprehensive solutions and process improvements. Work independently, collaborate and engage with other experts in developing solutions and resolving problems. Assess technical concepts; determine applicability to the classified environment, test and implement technologies, and pass on to technical users.

Duties and Responsibilities

• May perform any or all the following duties:
• Provide expertise (SME) in day-to-day work for data, voice, LAN/WAN, Cloud and AV environments for Classified and unclassified network environments as needed.
• Collaborate regularly with S&CO Systems Administration team and the Information Systems Security Managers on compliance and technical matters.
• Work routine vulnerability patching and STIG application, continuous monitoring, national policies, CORA, DAPM, ICD-503, CNSSI 1253, JSIG. Collaborate with cybersecurity and systems teams; comply with DoD 8140
• Investigate, troubleshoot and resolve network-related issues, working closely with S&CO and IS technical personnel.
• SME support, troubleshoot network issues, lead small-to-medium projects, design tactical solutions, support classified network operations.
• Provides support and escalation for complex technical issues; Provides Tier 1-3 support; develops network diagrams.
• Prepare for and participate in government inspections of classified technical environment for all RAND sites.
• Partner with IS Networking resources on compliance, maintenance, and project workloads.
• Based on user or company needs, evaluate and recommend enhanced network hardware and software systems/technologies and network designs for maximum functionality, security, and efficiency.
• Provide classified LAN/WAN/WLAN Cloud efficiency analysis. Perform as an exclusive network SME resource and provide training and expertise and mentoring to various SCO staff in relation to network voice or data applications and systems.
• Remain current with emerging technologies, maintaining professional relationships with relevant colleagues and attending occasional technology conferences.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education

High School Diploma or GED required.

BS/BA in a related discipline preferred. Equivalent experience may substitute for a degree.

Experience

Candidates with a high school diploma or GED must have a minimum of twelve (12) years of relevant experience supporting classified network systems.

Candidates with a bachelor's degree in a related discipline must have a minimum of eight (8) years of experience supporting classified network systems.

Extensive experience in classified, DoD, Intelligence Community, or secure enterprise IT environments, along with current professional certifications (e.g., Security+, CASP, COMSEC, or equivalent), may be considered as a full substitute for a degree from an accredited university or college recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Certifications

Current Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or equivalent network certification.

Security+.

CCNP Enterprise preferred.

Required Experience, Knowledge and Skills

• Extensive experience working in a role supporting classified planning, design, implementation, administration, and troubleshooting of LAN/WAN/WLAN and cloud solutions for classified, DoD, Intelligence Community, or secure enterprise IT environments.
• Team player with experience leading classified technical projects and solving problems.
• Familiarity with any technology that aligns with future operations strategy is a plus; Microsoft M365, Azure cloud, DoD Classified Environments, SD-WAN, IaaS/PaaS, datacenter to cloud transition, Cisco DNA, routers, ISE, BGP, OSPF; SD-WAN; IaaS/PaaS; datacenter-to-cloud.
• Thorough understanding of the Cybersecurity lifecycle model involving continuance monitoring.
• Significant knowledge of the concepts involving DoD and IC classified cyber infrastructures.
• Experience implementing requirements identified in the national policies as they relate to classified processing.
• Experience with the Cyber Operational Readiness Requirements Assessment requirements along with DAPM, ICD-503 and CNSSI 1253 the JSIG manual and patch management regulations.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity and systems teams and comply with DoD 8140 requirements.
• Working knowledge of Linux, particularly RHEL 8/9, preferred.

Security Clearance

Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance. Active CI polygraph requi