Senior Network Engineer – Communications, Hybrid Cloud, OCONUS Connectivity

Jobtailor; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Jobtailor is seeking a senior network engineer in Chantilly, VA, to design and implement advanced communications and networking solutions to support government operations.

The role requires strong AWS networking expertise, IaC/Terraform experience, and a track record of global WAN deployments, with 30-40% international travel. You will mentor teams, produce engineering diagrams, and coordinate with vendors and stakeholders to ensure uptime and security.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 10+ years of related experience required.
• Proficient with configuring network hardware and software (routers, switches, firewalls).
• Strong AWS networking experience including IaC/Terraform and global WAN deployments.
• Experience with Cat5/6, fiber, and other media; able to troubleshoot complex hybrid networks.
• Ability to design network architectures with cost/benefit awareness.
• Experience in austere environments and satellite/ LOS tech is a plus.
• Excellent documentation and engineering diagram skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and deploy communications products and network tech to meet ops needs.
• Configure and install routers, switches, firewalls, and related media.
• Coordinate with ISPs and vendors for ongoing support.
• Monitor network performance and troubleshoot under uptime constraints.
• Develop engineering specs and network diagrams for stakeholders.
• Plan and coordinate international travel for TDYs as required.
• Provide training on VSAT systems and cybersecurity best practices.

Skills

AWS networking

Terraform / IaC

Global WAN deployment

Network troubleshooting

Network architecture design

Technical documentation

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

• Design and develop communications products and network technologies to meet operational requirements.
• Configure and install communications and networking equipment, including VSAT, Cisco routers, switches, firewalls, and interconnecting media such as Cat5/6, coaxial, and fiber optics (single and multi-mode).
• Coordinate with telecommunications and Internet Service Provider (ISP) vendors to maintain and troubleshoot purchased technologies.
• Monitor and manage network performance using Network Operations Center (NOC) tools to ensure optimal functionality.
• Conduct testing of network designs and implement enhancements and upgrades to improve system performance.
• Develop standards and baselines for program network equipment, ensuring compliance with the latest security updates and guidance.
• Create comprehensive documentation for processes and procedures, including logical and physical network diagrams, for presentation to government stakeholders.
• Evaluate and report on emerging communications technologies to enhance network capabilities.
• Plan and execute temporary duty assignments (TDYs), including equipment procurement, shipping, and travel coordination for OCONUS network maintenance and installations.
• Provide training on network and VSAT systems to ensure team members are aware of cyber threats, mitigation techniques, and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 10+ years of related professional experience or equivalent experience in lieu of degree.
• Proficiency in configuring and installing network hardware and software, including routers, switches, firewalls, and other interconnection devices.
• Strong AWS networking experience (including IaC/Terraform), demonstrated global WAN/field deployment experience (VSAT/LOS/ISP coordination), and proven ability to troubleshoot complex hybrid network issues under uptime constraints.
• Experience working with various connectivity media, such as Cat5/6, coaxial, and fiber optics.
• Knowledge of network architecture design, including cost/benefit analysis and hardware/software selection.
• Familiarity with austere environment communications solutions, including satellite and line-of-sight technologies.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve network issues in real-time.
• Strong documentation skills, including the ability to create detailed engineering specifications and network diagrams.
• 30-40% International Travel.
• Must possess an active passport or ability to obtain immediately upon hire.