Network Engineer - Classified Environment

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory seeks an experienced Network Engineer to design, implement, and secure classified air-gapped networks in a high-security environment. The role emphasizes routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, and encryptors to ensure reliable data center and office networks.

BS in IT/CS with 5+ years in network engineering, plus the ability to document procedures and support incident response. U.S. citizenship and SCI clearance are required; visa sponsorship is not available.

Qualifications

• BS in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field with at least 5 years of network administration or engineering experience.
• Equivalents may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Experience developing technical documentation and operating procedures.
• Knowledge of network security practices and government standards (NIST, DISA STIGs) in regulated/classified environments.

Responsibilities

• Design, install, configure, monitor, patch, and troubleshoot data center and office networks.
• Manage routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, encryptors, and storage networks.
• Create and maintain network documentation, procedures, and continuity materials.
• Support disaster recovery planning and IT modernization efforts.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning actions with our core values and promoting a respectful workplace.

Skills

Enterprise networking

Routers & switches

Firewalls

VPNs & encryptors

Network security

Troubleshooting

Mentorship

Education

BS in Information Technology or Computer Science

Tools

Cisco Certified Network Professional

Job description

An active Q or TS/SCI clearance is required for consideration.

Overview:

The Field Intelligence Operations Division is seeking an experienced Network Engineer to support the operation, maintenance, and security of classified, air-gapped network infrastructure. The successful candidate will bring strong enterprise networking experience in the design, implementation, administration, and troubleshooting of routers, switches, firewalls, and other critical network devices. In this role, you will help maintain secure, reliable network services, monitor performance, resolve incidents, and support compliance with government security requirements in a collaborative, security-focused environment. Experience working in classified, air-gapped, or otherwise highly restricted environments, along with familiarity with DOE, DOW, and IC requirements, is highly preferred. A Q or TS/SCI clearance is required.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Design, install, configure, monitor, patch, and troubleshoot data center and office networks.
• Manage routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, encryptors, and storage networks.
• Perform hardware installation, replacement, cabling, and maintain fiber optic inventories.
• Monitor network performance and resolve complex networking issues.
• Implement network security controls and support system accreditation requirements.
• Create and maintain network documentation, procedures, and continuity materials.
• Support disaster recovery planning and implementation.
• Lead network architecture improvements and support IT modernization efforts.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend solutions to improve performance, scalability, and security.
• Collaborate with internal teams, leadership, sponsors, and stakeholders to identify requirements and support mission objectives.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• BS in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field, with at least 5 years of relevant network administration or engineering experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Ability to analyze requirements, user feedback, and operational needs to build and improve network services and infrastructure.
• Experience developing technical documentation and maintaining operating procedures.
• Knowledge of network security practices and government security standards, including NIST and DISA STIGs, in regulated or classified environments.
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with DOE, DOW, IC, and FISMA requirements.
• Cisco Certified Network Professional certification or equivalent professional experience preferred.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively with IT peers, engineers, architects, leadership, and mission stakeholders.

Special Requirements:

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance from the DOE. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program. In addition, due to the SCI requirement, you may also be subject to random polygraph testing.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.