Senior Network Architect

Essex Solutions; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Essex Solutions is seeking a Senior Network Architect in Fort Wayne, Indiana, responsible for designing and evolving a secure, scalable enterprise network. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in network engineering, providing technical leadership, and collaborating with IT leadership. Key responsibilities involve architecture and implementation across LAN, WAN, and hybrid environments, with a focus on high availability and security compliant with industry standards. Candidates should possess strong technical skills and a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to design systems from high-level business requirements.
• Strong understanding of security frameworks and standards.
• Experience with enterprise collaboration tools.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement secure, scalable network solutions.
• Lead collaboration with stakeholders for technical alignment.
• Oversee deployment of networking technologies and tools.

Skills

Advanced expertise in network architecture

Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities

Expert-level troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills

Strong project management and organizational skills

Excellent communication skills

Deep understanding of network compliance standards

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field

8–12+ years in network engineering

Tools

PowerShell

Microsoft 365

Citrix Virtual Apps & Desktops

VMware

Azure

AWS

Job description

The Senior Network Architect is responsible for the strategic design, governance, and evolution of a secure, scalable, and highly resilient enterprise network infrastructure. This role provides technical leadership in architecting solutions that support current and future business objectives, ensuring high availability, performance, and security across all network and telecommunications systems.

This individual leads the evaluation, selection, and implementation of advanced networking technologies, establishes architectural standards, and drives continuous improvement initiatives. The role also includes mentoring technical staff, guiding complex troubleshooting efforts, and collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders to align technology solutions with business needs.

• Lead the architecture, design, and implementation of enterprise network solutions across LAN, WAN, cloud, and hybrid environments
• Define and maintain network architecture standards, roadmaps, and best practices aligned with organizational strategy
• Provide technical leadership and oversight for complex network and telecommunications projects
• Evaluate, recommend, and oversee the deployment of networking technologies, tools, and vendors
• Collaborate with business units and IT leadership to translate business requirements into scalable technical solutions
• Ensure high availability, redundancy, and disaster recovery capabilities across all network systems
• Oversee performance tuning, capacity planning, and proactive monitoring strategies
• Lead root cause analysis and resolution of critical network and infrastructure issues
• Architect and support secure network frameworks, ensuring compliance with security policies and industry standards
• Design and integrate telecommunications systems, including VoIP, call center technologies, and unified communications platforms
• Drive automation initiatives using scripting (e.g., PowerShell) and infrastructure-as-code methodologies where applicable
• Mentor and guide network engineers and administrators, fostering technical growth and best practices
• Manage vendor relationships, including contract negotiations and performance management
• Contribute to budgeting, forecasting, and cost optimization strategies for network infrastructure
• Develop and enforce policies, procedures, and documentation related to network architecture and operations
• Lead or support audits, risk assessments, and compliance initiatives
• Support of Microsoft servers and virtual infrastructure

Skills And Abilities Require

• Advanced expertise in network architecture, design principles, and enterprise infrastructure
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities
• Proven ability to design systems from high-level business requirements
• Expert-level troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
• Deep understanding of security frameworks and network compliance standards
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-availability environment

Education And Experience Requirement

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• 8–12+ years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture roles
• Demonstrated experience designing and supporting enterprise-scale network environments

Licenses Or Certifications (preferred

• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Exper
• Other relevant cloud or security certification

Technical Requirement

• Experience with management/administration of enterprise collaboration tools (e.g., Microsoft 365, Exchange Online, TEAMS)
• Proficiency in PowerShell or similar scripting languages
• Advanced knowledge of routing and switching (e.g., BGP, OSPF, VLANs, SD-WAN)
• Experience with cloud networking (Azure, AWS, or hybrid environments)
• Strong familiarity with network security technologies (firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS)
• Experience with virtualization and platforms such as Citrix Virtual Apps & Desktops, VMware or Nutanix
• Knowledge of VoIP, unified communications, and call center technologies
• Familiarity with monitoring and management tools, as well as automation frameworks