Principal Network and Protocol Architect

Description As a Principal Network and Protocol Architect, you will be responsible for creating and evaluating innovative network concepts across multiple domains, including Wireline, RF, and Free Space Optics. This role requires deep technical expertise in network protocols, security, and cloud technologies, combined with leadership and communication skills. You will operate in a dynamic, high-impact environment where state-of-the-art solutions intersect with emerging technologies such as quantum communications. Ability and willingness to work onsite in either San Diego California or Arlington Virginia is highly preferred. Primary Responsibilities Develop novel networking approaches and protocol concepts that integrate traditional solutions with emerging technologies. Design and prototype new versions of networking protocols (e.g., extending BGP to incorporate quantum sensing for link security evaluation). Define, simulate, and evaluate new networking protocols and extensions to address next-generation performance and security requirements. Research, assess, and recommend emerging network infrastructure technologies. Plan, design, and optimize network systems using both novel and existing protocols. Produce technical documentation, mentor junior engineers, and lead knowledge transfer initiatives. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field; Minimum of 12 years of professional experience in networking; Master's degree with 6-10 years of relevant experience; Doctorate in a technical domain may be considered. Demonstrated experience in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting networks. Proficiency in simulating and assessing networking protocols and architectures. Comprehensive knowledge of networking protocols, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, VPNs, and routing protocols such as OSPF and BGP. In-depth understanding of network security principles, architectures, and best practices. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills; proven ability to work independently and lead technical initiatives. Excellent technical writing and communication skills. Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance (U.S. Citizenship required). Preferred Qualifications Direct experience designing new networking protocols or protocol extensions, not only architecting networks with existing ones. Experience conceptualizing, defining, and simulating novel approaches to networking, particularly in areas like secure routing and adaptive protocols. Experience developing software implementations of novel or extended protocols. Familiarity with quantum networking and integration of quantum sensing into traditional network architectures. Active DoD Secret clearance. Ability and willingness to work onsite in either San Diego California or Arlington Virginia is highly preferred. Key Differentiator This role goes beyond traditional network design and implementation. The focus is on defining and validating the next generation of networking protocols, leveraging advancements such as quantum communications and sensing. Candidates with backgrounds limited to applying pre-existing protocols are not the right fit - this position is for innovators who can invent, extend, and rigorously evaluate new protocols that will shape the future of secure, resilient, and adaptive networking. At Leidos, we don't want someone who "fits the mold" - we want someone who melts it down and builds something better. This is a role for the restless, the over‑caffeinated, the ones who ask, "what's next?" before the dust settles on "what's now." If you're already scheming step 20 while everyone else is still debating step 2... good. You'll fit right in. Original Posting: October 2, 2025 For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above. Pay Range: $126,100.00 - $227,950.00 The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law. About Leidos Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com. Pay and Benefits Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits. Securing Your Data Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos' name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment‑related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work). Further, Leidos will only communicate with you through emails that are generated by the Leidos.com automated system - never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment‑related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com. If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement and report the incident to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Commitment to Non-Descrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr