Network Operations Lead

Network Operations LeadCSCI Consulting is looking for a Network Operations Lead to support our Federal client. In this role, the consultant will be responsible for overseeing the operation, performance, and security of the client's enterprise network environment. This role provides technical leadership across network infrastructure, Zero Trust enforcement, and secure connectivity services, ensuring reliable and compliant access to enterprise systems across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments. The Network Operations Lead collaborates with Infrastructure, ITSM, Service Desk, and Engineering teams to support mission-critical operations while maintaining alignment with Zero Trust architecture principles and federal security requirements.
ResponsibilitiesLead network operations activities supporting enterprise LAN/WAN, firewall, wireless, and secure access platformsProvide technical oversight for Cisco routing/switching, Palo Alto firewalls, Zscaler (ZIA/ZPA), and Aruba wireless infrastructureEnsure network operations align with Zero Trust principles, including identity-aware access, segmentation, and continuous monitoringOversee network incident monitoring, response, and resolution, including participation in Major Incident bridges for Priority 1 eventsCoordinate network change management activities (ERB/CCB), including impact analysis, implementation, validation, and rollback planningManage firewall policy lifecycle, ensuring least-privilege enforcement, documentation, and compliance with security requirementsMonitor and optimize network performance, availability, latency, throughput, and capacity across enterprise systemsEnsure integration of network operations with ServiceNow ITSM processes, including incident, change, and CMDB managementSupport continuous monitoring, alerting, and logging activities across network and security platformsCoordinate cross-tower activities with Infrastructure, Service Desk, Security, and Engineering to resolve complex issues and improve service deliveryDevelop and maintain network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, runbooks, and SOPsSupport network continuity, disaster recovery operations, and recovery execution in coordination with other task areasTrack and report performance against SLAs, KPIs, and operational metricsDrive continuous improvement by identifying recurring network issues and implementing long-term solutionsMinimum RequirementsBachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)10+ years of IT experience with at least 5 years in network operations, engineering, or infrastructure rolesDemonstrated experience supporting enterprise network environments, including routing, switching, and firewall operationsStrong knowledge of Zero Trust architecture, network segmentation, and secure access technologiesExperience with Cisco networking technologies, Palo Alto firewalls, Zscaler (ZIA/ZPA), and Aruba wireless infrastructureHands-on experience with network monitoring, incident response, and performance optimization toolsExperience supporting Change Management processes (ERB/CCB) and ITSM frameworks using ServiceNowAbility to analyze network incidents and conduct root cause analysis for complex issuesStrong communication skills with ability to present technical issues and solutions to leadership and stakeholdersEligibility to obtain required federal clearance (Public Trust)Creativity and adaptability in problem-solvingAbility to work with clients to understand their needsStrong organizational and time-management skillsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsProfessional presencePreferred SkillsRelevant certifications (e.g., Cisco CCNP/CCIE, Palo Alto PCNSE, Zscaler certifications, ITIL v4)Experience supporting Zero Trust network implementations and identity-integrated access controlsFamiliarity with ServiceNow integration across ITSM and CMDB processesExperience with network monitoring, logging, and analytics tools (e.g., SNMP, NetFlow, Syslog)Experience in federal IT environments with compliance, audit, and cybersecurity requirementsBackground in hybrid cloud networking (Azure, Microsoft 365 integration)Experience supporting disaster recovery and continuity of operations for enterprise networksStrong analytical skills with ability to identify trends and drive network performance improvementsAbility to work in a team environment, as well as independentlyStrong customer and vendor relationship skillsDemonstrated ability to comply with data standards and policiesMotivation to learn new technologies and methodologies that demonstrate valuePast experience working with a Federal agencyFederal network experience is a plusAbout CSCI CSCI is an award-winning information technology and financial management consulting firm founded on one simple philosophy: "Do what is right, always." We apply this philosophy across all elements of our growing business, from delivering world-class s