Principal Network Engineer - Hybrid DoD Clearance

Apex Systems; 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

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,