Network Engineer – SME: TX: WA

Job Title: Network Engineer – SME

Location: Plano, TX OR Redmond, WA (Onsite)

Job Type: Contract
Visa: H1 with Passport Number

Summary

·        We are seeking a highly skilled Network Engineer SME to design, implement, optimize, and support enterprise-level network infrastructure. The ideal candidate will serve as a subject matter expert for complex networking environments, ensuring high availability, scalability, and security across all network operations.

Key Responsibilities

·        Design, configure, and maintain enterprise LAN, WAN, WLAN, and data center networks.

·        Act as the SME for network architecture, guiding design decisions and best practices.

·        Implement and support advanced routing, switching, and firewall technologies (Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, Fortinet, etc.).

· Manage and troubleshoot VPN, load balancers, and network security protocols.

·        Monitor network performance and optimize for scalability, reliability, and efficiency.

·        Provide escalation support for high-severity incidents, perform root cause analysis, and implement permanent fixes.

·        Develop and maintain detailed network documentation, standards, and SOPs.

·        Lead network migrations, upgrades, and integrations with minimal downtime.

·        Collaborate with cross-functional teams on cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP).

·        Mentor and guide junior engineers on technical and operational best practices.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

·        Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).

·        10+ years of experience in enterprise networking, with at least 3+ years as an SME/Lead.

·        Strong expertise in Cisco (CCNP/CCIE preferred), Juniper, or equivalent vendor technologies.

Hands-on experience with:

·        Routing & Switching (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, MPLS)

·        Firewalls, IDS/IPS, and VPNs

·        Wireless networking (802.11 standards, controllers, APs)

·        Network monitoring & troubleshooting tools (SolarWinds, Wireshark, etc.)

·        Knowledge of cloud networking and hybrid environments (AWS VPC, Azure VNets, Direct Connect, ExpressRoute).

·        Strong background in network security and compliance.

·        Proven ability to design high-availability architectures and DR solutions.

·        Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

·        Routing & Switching / Security or equivalent advanced certification.

·        Experience with SD-WAN, SDN, and network automation (Python, Ansible, Terraform).

· Familiarity with VoIP, Unified Communications, and collaboration tools.