Senior Principal Network Engineer - 174042

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Senior Principal Network Engineer to support a federal defense program focused on national security, mission-critical communications, and critical infrastructure protection. This position is on-site in Newington, VA . The Senior Principal Network Engineer will lead the design, implementation, and optimization of complex network environments supporting high-priority government operations.

Responsibilities for the Senior Principal Network Engineer include:

• Design and architect scalable, secure voice, video, wireless, and data communication networks in collaboration with engineering, security, cloud, and operations teams.


• Develop high-level and low-level network designs (HLDs/LLDs) and support the deployment and integration of enterprise and data center networking solutions.


• Troubleshoot complex network issues, conduct root cause analysis, and implement performance, reliability, and security improvements.


• Act as a trusted technical advisor by translating mission requirements into scalable network architectures and strategic solutions.


• Utilize advanced routing, switching, security, and automation technologies to optimize and modernize network infrastructure.

Required Qualifications for the Senior Principal Network Engineer include:

• 8+ years of experience in network engineering, network architecture, or complex enterprise networking environments.


• Strong expertise with routing and switching technologies including BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, MPLS, VXLAN, and EVPN.


• Hands-on experience with Cisco technologies including Catalyst, Nexus, ACI, Next-Generation Firewalls, and enterprise LAN/WAN environments.


• Experience with network monitoring and troubleshooting tools such as SolarWinds, Wireshark, and NetFlow.


• Strong communication, presentation, troubleshooting, and analytical skills.


• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.


• Active TS/SCI clearance required with eligibility for Special Access Program (SAP) approval.

Compensation for the Senior Principal Network Engineer include:

Salary Range: $160,000 - $180,000 depending on experience

Full Benefits Package: PTO, Paid Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Tuition Reimbursement, Sick Leave as required by law.

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