Network Specialist III (Sr-Level)

ZP Group; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401k Plan

PTO and sick leave

Job summary

ZP Group in Norfolk, Virginia is seeking a Senior Network Specialist to support the design and maintenance of complex enterprise network infrastructures. The ideal candidate will lead network modernization efforts and provide expert guidance to engineering teams.

The role requires strong knowledge in various networking protocols and certifications such as CCNA and Security+. Competitive salary range of $65,000 to $75,000 depending on experience, along with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 8–12+ years of experience designing, implementing, and supporting enterprise network environments.
• Active CompTIA Security+ and CCNA certifications.
• Experience with TCP/IP, OSPF, BGP, EIGRP, and network segmentation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise network infrastructure.
• Serve as the primary technical resource for routing, switching, and network security solutions.
• Analyze existing network architectures and recommend improvements.

Skills

Network design and implementation

Advanced troubleshooting

Network security

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology or related field

Tools

Cisco technologies

VPNs

Cloud networking (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)

Job description

Senior Network Specialist

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Senior Network Specialist to support the design, implementation, optimization, and sustainment of complex enterprise network infrastructures. The successful candidate will serve as a technical leader responsible for network architecture, advanced troubleshooting, security compliance, and strategic modernization initiatives. This position requires extensive experience supporting large-scale network environments and the ability to provide expert guidance to engineering teams, leadership, and customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise network infrastructure supporting mission-critical operations.
• Serve as the primary technical resource for complex routing, switching, wireless, and network security solutions.
• Analyze existing network architectures and recommend improvements to enhance performance, scalability, reliability, and security.
• Lead network modernization, migration, and technology refresh initiatives.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues involving multiple technologies and environments.
• Develop and review network designs, engineering documentation, diagrams, implementation plans, and standard operating procedures.
• Conduct root cause analysis and provide recommendations to prevent recurring incidents.
• Support network security initiatives, including segmentation, access control, compliance, and vulnerability remediation efforts.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity, cloud, systems, and application teams to support enterprise-wide initiatives.
• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers and provide technical leadership across the organization.
• Develop and present technical briefings to government customers, executive leadership, and stakeholders.
• Participate in strategic planning and contribute to long-term network architecture roadmaps.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field. Additional years of experience may be substituted for education.
• 8–12+ years of experience designing, implementing, and supporting enterprise network environments.
• Active CompTIA Security+ certification.
• Active Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification.
• Advanced experience with Cisco routing and switching technologies.
• Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, OSPF, BGP, EIGRP, MPLS, VLANs, QoS, STP, and network segmentation.
• Experience with enterprise firewall technologies, VPNs, NAC solutions, and network security best practices.
• Experience supporting highly available, redundant, and geographically dispersed network environments.
• Demonstrated experience leading technical projects and engineering teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or equivalent advanced networking certification.
• Experience with Cisco Catalyst, Nexus, ISR, ASR, Meraki, and SD-WAN technologies.
• Experience with Aruba wireless solutions and wireless network architecture.
• Experience with cloud networking in AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
• Knowledge of network automation using Python, Ansible, Terraform, or PowerShell.
• Experience supporting federal, defense, intelligence, or other regulated environments.
• Familiarity with Zero Trust architecture and modern network security frameworks.
• Experience with network monitoring and performance management platforms.
• Active Secret clearance required.

Compensation

• Salary: $65,000 - 75,000 **depending on experience**
• Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k Plan, Holidays, PTO, sick leave as required by law
• Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.