Senior Network Engineer

MKS2 Technologies; Herndon (VA); On-site; USD 200,000 - 215,000; Full time

Job summary

A defense technology firm in Herndon, VA seeks a Subject Matter Expert Level Network Engineer. This role focuses on Network Access Control (NAC) and involves designing and managing solutions for a key Government program. The ideal candidate will have expertise in CISCO network appliances and strong skills in network security. This contract position is suited for those with 16+ years of experience who thrive in dynamic environments.

Qualifications

• 16 years of experience in network engineering focused on security.
• Proven expertise in CISCO network appliances and NAC platforms.
• Excellent analytical and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and management of NAC solutions using CISCO devices.
• Monitor network traffic and mitigate security threats.
• Collaborate with teams to align security standards.

Skills

CISCO network appliances

Network Access Control (NAC)

Network security

TCP/IP stack

Communication skills

Education

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

Tools

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)

Cisco FTD

Job description

Overview

This range is provided by MKS2 Technologies. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$200,000.00/yr - $215,000.00/yr

Location: Herndon, VA

Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Full Scope Polygraph required

Recruiting Delivery Manager | MKS2 Technologies

We are seeking a highly experienced Subject Matter Expert (SME) Level Network Engineer with a minimum of 16 years of professional experience, specializing in Network Access Control (NAC). This role is part of a technology-driven program supporting a key Government customer. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in CISCO network appliances, NAC platforms, and associated management software, with a strong focus on network security, endpoint validation, and policy enforcement.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and management of NAC solutions using CISCO network devices, load balancers, Linux servers, and CISCO appliances.
• Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot NAC policies and profiles to ensure secure network access.
• Monitor network traffic for anomalies and proactively mitigate security threats.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align network security standards with organizational goals.
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in NAC and network security.
• Provide expert-level technical support and guidance to internal teams and external clients.
• Participate in the evaluation and selection of NAC technologies and vendors.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 16 years of experience in network engineering with a focus on network security.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• Proven SME-level experience with CISCO network appliances and NAC platforms.
• Strong understanding of network protocols, TCP/IP stack, and the OSI model.
• Experience with Cisco FTD or similar firewall management software.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise in Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE).
• Industry certifications such as CCNA Security, CCNP Security, RHCA, or equivalent.
• Experience with Linux OS and Python scripting.
• Familiarity with a broad range of network technologies and architectural solutions.
• Understanding of advanced systems engineering and network design principles.
• Experience with cloud service providers (AWS, Azure, Oracle, Google) and hybrid cloud networking.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Contract

Job function

• Information Technology

Industries

• Defense & Space