Enterprise Architect with Security Clearance

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking an Enterprise Architect to support a long-term federal program. This is a full-time hybrid role with occasional travel and in-person meetings in Alexandria. This role involves designing and implementing enterprise-grade network architectures across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in network automation, security, and emerging technologies, and will serve as a trusted advisor during technical discussions and architecture reviews. Responsibilities Include: * Engage with clients to understand business requirements and translate them into tailored network architecture solutions.

• Assess existing infrastructure for optimization opportunities focusing on scalability, resiliency, and security.
• Design, document, and present end-to-end enterprise network architectures.
• Lead implementation efforts and ensure deployments align with design specifications and best practices.
• Drive adoption of network automation and Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) using tools such as Ansible, Terraform, and Python.
• Develop and maintain automated configuration management and CI/CD pipelines for network deployments.
• Standardize network architectures and create reusable templates for consistency.
• Collaborate with internal teams, vendors, and technology partners to deliver integrated solutions.
• Mentor engineering and client teams on automation tools and emerging technologies.
• Research and evaluate emerging technologies such as SDN, SASE, Zero Trust, NFV, and cloud-native networking.
• Troubleshoot complex network and automation-related issues.

Required Qualifications: * Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related field (preferred).

• Experience:
• 7+ years in network architecture or engineering roles.
• Proven experience designing and implementing enterprise-grade network infrastructures across multiple environments.
• Hands-on experience with network automation frameworks and tools (Ansible, Python, Terraform, REST APIs).
• Familiarity with cloud networking services (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
• Strong knowledge of network protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, VPNs, SD-WAN).
• Expertise in network security design, including firewalls and segmentation.
• Certifications:
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or equivalent (required).
• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) or equivalent (preferred).
• Network automation or DevNet certification (a plus).

Preferred Skills: * Experience with Infrastructure-as-Code and DevOps methodologies.

• Familiarity with monitoring and telemetry platforms (Prometheus, Grafana, Splunk).
• Understanding of containerized networking (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and project management skills.

Additional Requirements: * Must be able to obtain a Public Trust clearance.

• Must attend and actively participate in daily Agile meetings.
• Cannot be engaged in other part-time roles or side projects.

Compensation: * Salary Range: $140,000-$160,000 (depending on experience).

• Full Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, PTO, Sick Leave, and Holidays. (As required by law) Keywords: Enterprise Architect, Network Architect, Network Engineering, Network Automation, Infrastructure-as-Code, IaC, Ansible, Terraform, Python Automation, CI/CD, SDN, SASE, Zero Trust Architecture, NFV, Cloud Networking, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, Hybrid Networking, Network Security, Cisco Certified Network Professional, CCNP, Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, CCIE, Cisco DevNet, Network Automation Specialist, NetBox, Nornir, REST APIs, MPLS, BGP, OSPF, SD-WAN, Prometheus, Grafana, Splunk, Kubernetes Networking, Docker Networking