Network Systems Engineer

Rippling, Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

401(k) with company match

Vacation & holidays

Sick leave

Supportive small‑business culture

Job summary

FusionICS, LLC seeks a Network Systems Engineer to oversee complex networks for federal/defense customers. You’ll design, configure, and maintain connectivity across campus and ICS networks, ensuring secure, compliant deployments.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in network engineering, strong DoD/government contracting exposure, and relevant certifications. The role includes field work, security clearance requirements, and competitive benefits.

Qualifications

• BS preferred in engineering or IT field; extensive experience accepted in lieu of degree.
• Ten years’ experience with network engineering and enterprise standards.
• DoD/government contracting experience is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Architect, configure, manage routing, switching, and firewall hardware.
• Design and maintain Enterprise VPN architectures (IPsec).
• Deploy digital encryptors and secure network enclaves.
• Develop RMF documentation (NIST SP 800-37).
• Oversee fiber/cabling deployments and site inspections.

Skills

Network engineering

Routing & switching

Firewalls (Cisco/FortiNet/Palo Alto)

VPN architectures

DoD/IC program familiarity

RMF/NIST 800-37

Network security

Field inspections

Industrial Control Systems (ICS)

Education

BS in Engineering/CS/IT or related field

Professional certs (NSE/CCNA/CCNP/CISSP) or equivalent

Tools

Cisco ASA/Firepower

Fortinet FortiGate

Juniper switches

Job description

Fusion is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business specializing in mission-critical engineering, secure infrastructure, and advanced technical solutions for federal and defense customers. We bring precision, integrity, and deep expertise to some of the nation’s most complex and sensitive programs.

When you join Fusion, you become part of a collaborative, mission-focused organization that values technical excellence, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to national security.

Position Summary

Fusion is seeking a Network Systems Engineer to provide technical oversight, quality control, advanced network configuration, and infrastructure compliance. The Network Systems Engineer will support infrastructure assessments and drive the IC program forward through continuous improvements

The Network Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, configuring, and maintaining stable, and consistent connectivity across all campus communications and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) networks. From implementing ironclad network security, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and digital encryptors, to executing critical infrastructure updates and overseeing the physical installation of fiber optic and structured cabling systems, the Network Systems Engineer serves as the technical backbone that connects all enterprise and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) operations.

Deep technological expertise with a wide range of routing, switching, and firewall hardware, specifically within mixed Cisco and Fortinet environments, is essential. This role ensures the efficient, secure, and compliant deployment of communication infrastructure to support networking and data transmission needs through daily field inspections, technical architecture design, and collaboration with government personnel.

Security Clearance Requirement

• U.S. citizenship is required due to customer and contract requirements
• Active Top Secret (TS) clearance with SCI eligibility required
• Must be able to obtain and maintain the customer specific clearance and site access required for assigned duties

Key Responsibilities

• Architect, configure, and manage routing, switching, and firewall hardware across mixed Cisco, Fortinet, and Juniper environments
• Design, implement, and maintain Enterprise VPN architectures (IPsec) and secure network enclaves
• Configure, deploy, and manage digital encryptors
• Analyze network appliances, software applications, and encryption technology products to specify and develop Risk Management Framework (RMF) documentation (NIST SP 800-37)
• Prepare, implement, and monitor network disaster procedures and infrastructure recovery solutions

Infrastructure Oversight & Quality Assurance

• Review design and engineering blueprints, and oversee the deployment of fiber optic and structured cabling systems across new construction and existing facilities
• Enforce construction drawings, conduct site inspections to evaluate physical conditions, and oversee contractor execution for networking installations (ICS, Security ACS, IDS, and Cameras)
• Manage the three-phase control quality management process to verify physical and logical network compliance at all project stages
• Ensure all standards for pathways, cable management, racks, and distribution points have been installed for optimized performance
• Assess campus-wide needs for network bandwidth, stability, and security, ensuring scalability for future IC and enterprise growth
• Participate in meetings, site briefings, and provide technical insight and troubleshoot complex network stability issues

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments, including construction zones, and near high-voltage switchgear and substations
• Ability to work in high-security environments requiring strict access controls and security protocols
• Requires lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs, climbing ladders, and working in confined spaces

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• BS. in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology or a related field is preferred
• Professional certification such as NSE, CCNA, CCNP, CISSP or equivalent, plus ten years of experience in lieu of a degree
• Five or more years of experience with a strong emphasis on network engineering, protocols, and infrastructure standards
• Two or more years of experience in a dedicated network engineering or network administration role
• Two or more years of experience with Industrial Control Systems (ICS) networks
• Experience with DoW construction projects, military facilities, or government contracting is highly preferred

Technical Skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of advanced networking concepts (TCP/IP, VLANs, routing protocols) and computing infrastructures
• Experience with Cisco (e.g., ASA/Firepower), Fortinet (e.g., FortiGate), and/or Palo Alto firewalls
• Experience with the configuration and deployment of Cisco, Fortinet, and/or Juniper switches
• Familiarity with fiber optic network design, CAT6 cabling, and testing/troubleshooting tools (OTDR, Fluke testers)

Required Certificates (Post-Hire Milestones)

• Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP) obtained within 1 year of position.
• Fortinet Certified Professional (FCP) in Network Security (w/an elective in NSE 6 FortiSwitch) OR a Cisco equivalent (e.g., CCNP Enterprise/Security) obtained within 2 years of position.
• GIAC Response and Industrial Defense (GRID) obtained within 3 years of position.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and coordination abilities across multidisciplinary IT, OT, and construction teams
• Analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and optimize both physical infrastructure and logical network performance
• Ability to work in high-paced environments while managing multiple priorities

Why Work for Fusion?

At Fusion, we believe exceptional work begins with exceptional people. Our teams bring together technical excellence, integrity, and a shared commitment to delivering mission-critical solutions that directly support national security. Here, your expertise has real impact. You’ll collaborate with experienced professionals, contribute to meaningful programs, and be part of a supportive small‑business culture invested in your growth and success.

What We Offer

• Medical insurance with a generous employer HSA contribution
• 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
• 15 days of vacation
• 5 days of sick leave
• 11 paid federal holidays
• A mission-focused, supportive small‑business culture where your work makes a real impact

FusionICS, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

The pay range for this role is:

150,000 - 200,000 USD per year (NAVFAC HQ DC)