Network Automation Engineer

Talon Professional Services; Wilmington (DE); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Talon Professional Services in Wilmington, DE seeks a Network Automation Engineer to drive automation across global network infrastructure, integrating SD-WAN and Zero Trust architectures. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of network engineering and automation.

You will collaborate with diverse technical teams to build scalable, secure automation frameworks and support modern cloud networking initiatives.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years in enterprise network engineering across multi-site environments.
• Proven experience with network automation and scripting in operational contexts.
• Strong knowledge of routing, switching, firewalls, VPNs, NAC, and WAN technologies.
• Proficiency in Python and Ansible; working knowledge of Terraform and REST APIs for network automation.

Responsibilities

• Develop scalable, secure automation frameworks for global networks.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support SD-WAN and Zero Trust architectures.
• Maintain automation standards and governance; participate in on-call rotations.

Skills

Network engineering

Network automation

Python

Ansible

Terraform

REST APIs

CI/CD pipelines

Cloud networking

Cisco DNA Center

Kubernetes

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Cisco DNA Center

Cisco IOS

Palo Alto

Zscaler

Docker

Kubernetes

AWS

Azure

GCP

Terraform

Job description

Workplace Type: Hybrid-4 Days Onsite (Wilmington, DE, Manassas, VA, or Urbandale Iowa)

Employment Type: Direct Hire

Overview:

Join a leading organization as a Network Automation Engineer, where you'll play a pivotal role in revolutionizing and streamlining global network infrastructure. This position is ideal for someone passionate about integrating network engineering with cutting-edge automation practices. You'll collaborate with diverse technical teams to develop scalable, secure, and efficient automation frameworks supporting innovative cloud networking initiatives, including SD-WAN and Zero Trust architectures. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and have a knack for automation, this opportunity offers a dynamic platform to grow your expertise and make a tangible impact on enterprise network operations.

Required Skills:

• 3-5+ years in enterprise network engineering supporting multi-site or global environments
• Proven experience with network automation and scripting, specifically in operational contexts
• Strong knowledge of routing, switching, firewalls, VPNs, NAC, and WAN technologies
• Proficiency in Python and Ansible; working knowledge of Terraform and REST APIs for network automation
• Experience with version control systems and CI/CD pipelines for infrastructure or network changes
• Familiarity with cloud networking platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP and hybrid connectivity
• Hands-on experience with enterprise platforms including Cisco (routing, switching, ISE, DNA Center), Palo Alto, and Zscaler
• Exposure to containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes is advantageous

Nice to Have Skills:

• Certifications such as Cisco DevNet, CCNP/CCIE, PCNSE, CISSP, AWS/Azure Networking
• Knowledge of AI-assisted development and intelligent automation techniques
• Experience with network testing frameworks and event-driven automation

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university or equivalent combination of education and work experience
• 2+ years specifically focused on hands-on network automation and scripting

Other Requirements:

• Ability to participate in on-call rotations supporting production environments
• Commitment to developing and adhering to automation standards and best practices to drive maintainability and governance