Mission-Critical DoD Network Engineer (TS/SCI Preferred)

Astrion; Columbia (MD); On-site; USD 145,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Astrion is seeking a Senior Network Engineer to design, implement, secure, and maintain mission-critical network infrastructures supporting DoD/DoW environments. The role focuses on Cisco and Fortinet technologies, RMF compliance, and Cross Domain Solutions.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience with classified networks, strong routing/switching and security hardening skills, and a track record of working in high-security environments. Onsite in Columbia, MD preferred.

Qualifications

• Active Top Secret security clearance is required.
• TS/SCI is preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Network Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 8+ years of DoD/DoW or classified environment experience in network engineering.
• Deep expertise in Cisco routing & switching (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, MPLS).
• Deep Fortinet experience (FortiGate, FortiOS, VPNs).
• Experience implementing DISA STIG compliance.
• Hands-on experience with Cross Domain (C2C) architectures and security controls.
• Strong RMF knowledge and DoD accreditation processes.
• Experience with network automation (Python, Ansible) and Zero Trust concepts.
• SIEM integration and log analysis; NetFlow monitoring.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain secure network architectures using Cisco routing/switching and Fortinet FortiGate.
• Design and maintain an 802.1x compliant platform.
• Engineer and support classified and unclassified networks (e.g., MDA CNET, NIPR, SIPR, JWICS as applicable).
• Ensure compliance with DoD STIGs and cybersecurity policies.
• Implement and sustain CDS and C2C architectures.
• Perform hardening, vulnerability remediation, and continuous monitoring per RMF controls.
• Develop and maintain network documentation, diagrams, SOPs, and security artifacts.
• Support ATO processes, including STIG checklists, POA&Ms, and risk assessments.
• Troubleshoot complex network/security issues across multi-vendor environments.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity, systems engineering, and stakeholders to ensure secure operations.
• Support audits and compliance validation activities.

Skills

Top Secret clearance

TS/SCI preferred

8+ years DoD/DoW experience

Cisco routing & switching

Fortinet solutions

DISA STIG compliance

C2C / Cross Domain architectures

RMF

Network automation

Zero Trust architectures

SIEM integration

NetFlow monitoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Network Engineering/CS or related field

Tools

Fortinet FortiGate

FortiOS

Cisco IOS

ISE

Job description

Astrion is seeking a Senior Network Engineer to design, implement, secure, and maintain mission-critical network infrastructures supporting DoD/DoW environments. The role focuses on Cisco and Fortinet technologies, RMF compliance, and Cross Domain Solutions.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience with classified networks, strong routing/switching and security hardening skills, and a track record of working in high-security environments. Onsite in Columbia, MD preferred.