Network Architect

Base pay range $39.10/hr - $50.00/hr Responsibilities Kforce is immediately seeking an experienced Network Architect in support of our enterprise telecommunications and mass media client based in Greenwood Village, CO. Network Architect will lead the design and development of network architectures, roadmaps, and technical specifications for enterprise-level networks, encompassing on-premise data centers and hybrid cloud environments. Serve as the subject matter expert for all network-related technologies, providing technical leadership and guidance to engineering and operations teams. Evaluate, recommend, and integrate new technologies such as Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) to improve network agility and efficiency. Design and implement robust network security solutions, including the configuration of firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and other security fabric components. Manage network segmentation and isolation strategies to protect sensitive data and critical systems, ensuring compliance with security standards. Design and manage network load-balancing solutions to ensure high availability, optimal performance, and efficient traffic distribution across the network. Oversee the implementation of routing and switching protocols (e.g., OSPF, BGP) to ensure network stability, performance, and scalability across multi-site and global environments. Ensure the design of secure interconnectivity between on-premise infrastructure, cloud services (e.g., AWS, Azure), and remote access points. Develop comprehensive network documentation, including diagrams, topologies, and implementation plans, and provide ongoing support and troubleshooting for complex network issues. Requirements Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. 10+ years of progressive experience in network engineering, with at least 5 years in a network architect role designing enterprise-level networks. Expert-level knowledge and hands‑on experience with routing and switching protocols and configuration (e.g., Cisco, Juniper). Extensive experience with network security technologies, including firewalls (e.g., Palo Alto, Check Point), IDS/IPS, and VPNs. Proven experience in architecting and implementing secure solutions for on-premise and cloud (IaaS/PaaS) environments. Experience with network modeling, capacity planning, and performance analysis. Strong knowledge of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) principles and practical experience with SDN technologies. Expertise in designing and managing load-balancing systems for high-traffic applications. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Relevant industry certifications (e.g., CCNP, CCIE, AWS Certified Advanced Networking, Azure Network Engineer Associate) are highly desirable. Benefits We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave. Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law. This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions. Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. Seniority level Associate Employment type Contract Job function Information Technology Industries Telecommunications #J-18808-Ljbffr