Senior/Lead Python Network Automation Architect/Engineer

BC Forward; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 140,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Global client exposure

Inclusive culture

Job summary

BCforward is seeking a Senior/Lead Python Network Automation Architect/Engineer for a 13-month contract in Jersey City, NJ. The role focuses on Python-based automation for networks, SDN, and infrastructure engineering to improve reliability, security, and speed to production.

You will lead automation projects, manage CI/CD pipelines, mentor junior staff, and establish reference architectures while aligning with security controls and enterprise data strategies.

Qualifications

• 12+ years in software development with focus on network automation.
• Strong Python proficiency and software design experience.
• Deep understanding of SDLC and Agile methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Architecture, Engineering, and Production Services to define automation strategies.
• Design and develop software to manage network devices and SDN components.
• Develop and maintain a catalog of automation services for workflows.

Skills

Python

SDLC

Agile methodologies

Git

Jira

Jenkins

Ansible

Cisco networking

RHEL

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in CS or related

Tools

Git

Jira

Jenkins

Ansible

Job description

Job Title

Senior/Lead Python Network Automation Architect/Engineer

Location

Jersey City, NJ

Duration

Contract - 13 months

Pay Range

$73.67/hr (W2)

Job ID

409313

About BCforward

BCforward is a leading global IT consulting and workforce solutions firm providing services and support to Fortune 500 and government clients. Founded in 1998, BCforward has grown with our customers needs into a full-service business solutions provider. With delivery centers and offices across North America and India, we take pride in building long-term relationships and delivering excellence through innovation, collaboration, and integrity.

Job Description

We are seeking a Senior/Lead Python Network Automation Architect/Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in Python-based network automation, SDN, and infrastructure engineering and a proven ability to design, build, and automate network services to improve reliability, security, and time-to-market.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Architecture, Engineering, and Production Services to define and deliver network automation strategies.
• Design and develop software systems to manage firewalls, load balancers, SDN, routers, and switches.
• Develop and maintain a catalog of automation services for instrumentation, remediation, and operational workflows.
• Provide escalation support for production triage and incident response.
• Manage CI/CD pipelines for network development, testing, and deployment.
• Implement KPI metrics across deployed and modified components.
• Lead complex modifications to existing applications in line with specifications and standards.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
• Establish and maintain reference architectures and best practices to reduce time to production.
• Partner with architects to develop end-to-end enterprise data and network solutions with appropriate security controls.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Expert-level proficiency in Python and software design, including frameworks such as Django, Flask, Jinja, and SQLAlchemy.
• Deep understanding of SDLC, Agile methodologies, and tooling.
• Hands-on experience with Git, Jira, Jenkins, automated testing, and CI/CD.
• Infrastructure as Code and OOA/OOD experience, including Ansible-driven configuration management.
• Operational knowledge of Cisco networking and RHEL platforms.
• Ability to explain strategy, clarify requirements, and drive adoption with clear communication.
• Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or related field.
• Experience level: 12+ years in software development with focus on network automation.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with workflow tools and frameworks, including Pronghorn.
• Hands-on with routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, F5 GTM/LTM, IPAM, DDI, Avi, and SDN technologies.
• Agile tools such as Jira and Confluence, with experience leading ceremonies as product owner.
• Scripting with Python, Perl, and Shell; source control with Git or Subversion.
• Testing across unit, functional, integration, performance, and security domains.
• CI/CD pipelines and tools include Jenkins and Ansible.
• Security integration with Active Directory, LDAP, OAuth, PKI, and certificates.
• Logging and observability using Splunk and ELK.
• Experience in software architecture, API design, and platform design leadership.

Why BCforward?

At BCforward, we believe in advancing lives and careers. When you join our team, you gain access to:

• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Opportunities for growth with global clients
• A supportive, inclusive culture that values innovation and people
• Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and projects

About Our Commitment

BCforward is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.