Network System Architect-EN

CAE; Arlington (TX); On-site; Full time

Job description

Enterprise Network Architect – CAE Defense & Security

CAE Defense & Security is seeking an experienced Enterprise Network Architect to lead the design and implementation of a robust wide area network (WAN) supporting the U.S. Air Force Training, Modeling and Simulation Community’s mission‑critical operations. The candidate will develop scalable, secure network architectures, integrate emerging technologies, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure high availability, low latency, and compliance with DoD standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop end‑to‑end WAN architecture that meets performance, scalability, and security requirements for the Air Force Training, Modeling and Simulation Community.
• Translate mission‑critical operational needs into detailed network design documents, including topology, routing protocols, and redundancy strategies.
• Lead the installation, configuration, and testing of WAN components (MPLS, SDWAN, VPN, satellite links, edge routers, firewalls, and load balancers).
• Coordinate with field teams to ensure seamless integration with existing LAN, data center, and cloud environments.
• Define and enforce key performance indicators (KPIs) such as latency, jitter, packet loss, and uptime.
• Conduct capacity planning, traffic engineering, and fault tolerance assessments to guarantee mission availability.
• Design and implement secure network boundaries, segmentation, and encryption mechanisms in line with DoD and CAE security policies.
• Perform regular vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and compliance audits.
• Work closely with simulation developers, cybersecurity teams, logistics planners, and senior leadership to align network solutions with operational goals.
• Provide technical guidance and training to internal teams and external partners.
• Produce and maintain comprehensive network diagrams, configuration baselines, change‑management records, and troubleshooting guides.
• Capture lessons learned and best practices for future projects.
• Evaluate and select networking equipment, software, and service providers.
• Prepare cost estimates, manage project budgets and timelines.
• Monitor emerging WAN technologies and recommend enhancements to keep the network state of the art.
• Lead post‑deployment reviews and iterative optimization cycles.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in network design, implementation, and management.
• Proven track record designing large‑scale, multi‑site enterprise networks (LAN/WAN, SD‑WAN, MPLS, VPN, etc.).
• Experience with cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP) and hybrid cloud architectures.
• Hands‑on experience with network security (firewalls, IDS/IPS, Zero Trust, segmentation).
• Familiarity with virtualization (VMware, Hyper‑V, KVM) and software‑defined networking (SDN, NFV).
• Deep knowledge of routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, IS‑IS) and switching technologies (VLANs, STP, MSTP, EtherChannel, QoS).
• Proficiency with network design tools (SolarWinds, Lucidchart, Visio) and monitoring tools (Wireshark, NetFlow, sFlow, SNMP).
• Experience with network automation frameworks (Ansible, Terraform, Python).
• Knowledge of Zero Trust architecture, micro‑segmentation, and NIST SP 800‑53 Rev. 5 controls.
• Experience with RMF, Authorizing Officials, and applying Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIG).
• Prior DoD / government cybersecurity experience and eligibility for a DoD Personal Security Clearance.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, communication, and project‑management skills.
• Ability to mentor junior engineers and lead cross‑functional teams.

Preferred Skills

• Master’s degree (e.g., MBA, MS in Network Engineering).
• Industry certifications: CCIE – Routing & Switching, CCDP, CCNP – Enterprise, JNCIE – Routing or Switching, VCP‑NV, AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty, Azure Network Engineer Associate, CompTIA Network+, CISSP, CISM.
• Understanding of regulatory compliance (HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR) as it applies to network design.

Equal Opportunity Statement

CAE USA Inc. is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Applicants needing reasonable accommodations should contact the recruiter at any point in the recruitment process.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Duties performed in an office environment and manufacturing facility.
• Ability to work overtime, on‑call 24×7, and as required during shifts.
• Physical demands include sitting and standing for extended periods and lifting up to 25 lbs.