Job Description
Position: Senior Network Architect
Location: Remote (US)
Role Overview:
The Senior Network Architect will bring deep technical expertise and strategic insight to our client's Infrastructure and Security team! This role involves advising leadership on the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and network solutions in line with business objectives. The Senior Network Architect will partner with both internal stakeholders and external providers to assess, design, and implement network solutions that not only meet operational demands but also align with long-term strategic goals. This role demands the application of sophisticated design methodologies to ensure efficiency and resource optimization without compromising the network's integrity.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain the overarching technical strategy and implementation roadmap, ensuring all network architecture initiatives, whether in-house or outsourced, are executed to the highest standards and comply with organizational guidelines (through ARB).
- Offer informed insights and recommendations to Leadership on emerging technologies and industry trends.
- Oversee the lifecycle management of technology platforms, proactively identifying when updates or replacements are necessary, especially for components nearing end-of-life.
- Implement robust design practices that optimize resources and drive cost-effectiveness while preserving network stability.
- Ensure that all network solutions are seamlessly integrated into the larger infrastructure architecture and are in harmony with established technology guidelines.
- Collaborate closely with the Security Team to assess and respond to security considerations and integrate them into network design.
- Stay current with industry trends and technological advancements in networking, voice, and other relevant IT domains to provide valuable guidance to the organization.
- Participate in budgetary planning and forecasting to ensure that resources are appropriately allocated for network initiatives.
Skills and Expertise:
- Extensive experience in a network architecture role with a proven ability to design and manage enterprise-level networks.
- Deep understanding and expertise in LAN/WAN systems, including engineering and support for voice, data, and video networks.
- Advanced knowledge of Cisco routing hardware, software, and related protocols.
- Previous experience in defining network cloud strategies, hosting, and EUC (End User Computing).
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement network architectural strategies and reference architectures.
- A leadership style that fosters trust, motivates teams, and inspires delivery partners to commit to high-performance standards.
- Strong commercial and technical acumen, with the ability to quickly interpret requirements and develop practical, effective solutions.
- Competence in preparing detailed briefings and presentations that communicate architectural designs clearly and articulate options and recommendations to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Exceptional communication skills, both in one-on-one settings and in presentations to larger groups, ensuring engagement and comprehension from stakeholders.
- Proven relationship-building abilities, with confidence and assertiveness to influence senior business leaders, even in complex or challenging situations.
- Skilled in negotiation and persuasion, particularly in environments where the role may not have direct control over resources.
- A thorough understanding of business needs and the ability to cultivate strong, trust-based relationships with customers and stakeholders.
Qualifications:
- Bachelors degree in Computer Science or Network Engineering, with a minimum of 8 years of experience managing enterprise-level network environments (equivalent technical experience may substitute for formal education).
- Desired certifications: CCIE, CCDE.
- Demonstrated success working in high-pressure environments, handling multiple competing priorities, and adapting to change.
- Ability to manage personal workload, prioritize tasks effectively, and ensure deadlines are met.