Principal Network Engineer

Apex Systems, LLC; Virginia; Hybrid; USD 96,000 - 124,000; Full time

Job summary

Apex Systems is seeking a Principal Network Engineer in Rosslyn, VA (Hybrid). You will design and deploy scalable networks for a USAF initiative, lead technical efforts, and document architectures and configurations.

The role requires hands-on expertise in routing, switching, VPNs, firewalls, and Layer 1 installations, with leadership experience guiding junior engineers. Required qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years in network engineering, with strong skills in BGP/OSPF/MPLS,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in CS/IT or related field.
• 5+ years of hands-on network engineering with leadership experience.
• Design, implement, and optimize large-scale networks (routing, switching, VPNs, firewalls, load balancing).
• Experience with Layer 1 infrastructure, fiber cabling, and physical installations.
• Proficiency with networking protocols (BGP, OSPF, MPLS), TCP/IP, DNS, and HTTP, plus network automation (Ansible/Python).
• Familiarity with cloud networking (AWS/Azure) and Cisco technologies; Security+ and Core Network certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement scalable network solutions from scratch based on requirements.
• Create and maintain detailed network diagrams, documentation, and records.
• Conduct site surveys to plan deployments and gather requirements.
• Lead troubleshooting for complex network issues and implement long-term fixes.
• Coordinate with vendors and internal teams to integrate hardware/software.
• Participate in onsite installations including fiber cabling and Layer 1 setup.
• Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior engineers.

Skills

BGP

OSPF

MPLS

TCP/IP

DNS

HTTP

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field

Tools

Ansible

Python

Docker

Cisco SDN

Linux (Rocky/RHEL)

Job description

## Job Description# Principal Network EngineerApply**Job#: 3057671****Job Description:** *Candidates must be U.S. citizens able to obtain and/or maintain a Department of Defense security clearance as a condition and continuation of employment.*MUST BE ABLE TO OBTAIN/MAINTAIN A DOD SECRET CLEARANCEPrincipal Network Engineer**Location:** Rosslyn, Virginia (Hybrid)Role OverviewThis is a hands-on network engineering role focused on designing and deploying networks from the ground up to support a United States Air Force initiative. This position requires an individual with technical project management skills, strong communication abilities, and the ability to work effectively within a team. The role involves designing network architectures, creating detailed diagrams, conducting site surveys, and performing installations in a dynamic environment.Key Responsibilities* Design and implement complex, scalable network solutions from scratch based on customer requirements.* Create and maintain detailed network architecture documentation, diagrams, and configuration records.* Conduct site surveys to gather requirements, identify constraints, and plan network deployments.* Lead troubleshooting efforts for complex network issues, identify root causes, and implement long-term solutions.* Coordinate with vendors and internal teams to procure and integrate network hardware and software.* Participate in onsite installations, including physical network setup such as fiber cabling and Layer 1 connectivity.* Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure network solutions meet organizational goals and security requirements.* Provide mentorship and technical leadership to junior network engineers.Required Qualifications**Education:** A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is required.**Experience:*** 5+ years of hands-on experience in network engineering, with proven experience in a leadership or principal engineer role.* Demonstrated experience designing, implementing, and optimizing large-scale network infrastructures.* Expertise in routing, switching, VPNs, firewalls, and load balancing.* Hands-on experience with Layer 1 infrastructure, including fiber cabling and physical network installation.**Technical Skills:*** Deep understanding of networking protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF, MPLS), TCP/IP, DNS, and HTTP.* Experience with network automation and scripting using tools like Ansible, Python, or similar.* Familiarity with containerization technologies such as Docker.* Experience with Cisco networking technologies, including Cisco SDN, as well as Linux environments (Rocky Linux, RHEL).* Knowledge of network security tools and techniques (e.g., firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs).* Experience with cloud networking concepts and integration (AWS, Azure).**Certifications:*** CompTIA Security+ certification is required.* Core Network Certifications (e.g., CCNP, CCIE, JNCIP) or equivalent experience.Preferred Qualifications* A Master’s degree or equivalent experience.* Cybersecurity certifications such as CISSP or CEH.* Cloud or Virtualization certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, VCP, or CCSP.* Experience with pfSense.**Compensation & Benefits**The anticipated pay range for this position is $70.00/hr to $90.00/hr. Please note that the final pay rate will be determined based on a variety of factors, including the candidate's experience, qualifications, and the specific requirements of the role.We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click here for more details.If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Benefits Department at [e-mail] or 804-523-8228. *Everforth Apex is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Everforth Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRateds Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico.**Everforth Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click here for more details. By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Everforth Apex and its affiliates, and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at https://www.apexsystems.com/privacy-policy**Everforth Apex Benefits Overview: Everforth Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Everforth Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Everforth Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Everforth Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our ‘Welcome Packet’ as well, which an Everforth Apex team member can provide.**Everforth Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Everforth Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law.**If you require an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act to participate in an interview with a virtual recruiter or to use our website for a search or application, please contact our Benefits Department at [e-mail] or 804-523-8228. Please note that this contact information is strictly to be used for medical ADA accommodations and that no other inquiries will be answered.**UnitedHealthcare creates and publishes the Transparency in Coverage Machine-Readable Files on behalf of Everforth Apex Systems.***Employee Type:** Contract**Location:** Arlington, VA, US**Job Type:****Date Posted:** October 29, 2026**Pay Range:** $70 - $90 per hour