Network Engineer, SME with Security Clearance

Job Title: Senior Network Engineer Location: Ashburn, VA Terms: Fulltime, onsite position. About Chartis Federal
Chartis Federal is a premier systems engineering and integration firm specializing in mission-critical IT and communications solutions for law enforcement, homeland security, and defense. As a trusted prime contractor with over $160 million in task order awards, we operate across 22 states and support essential government missions worldwide.

Our commitment to excellence has fueled our year-over-year growth, earning us recognition twice as a Washington Technology FAST 50 company and securing a place on the Inc. 5000 list for five consecutive years. At Chartis Federal, our mission is clear: keeping heroes safe and connected—on the battlefield, on the border, and in our backyards. Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Network Engineer (SME) to lead the design, integration, and modernization of mission-critical communications networks.

This role serves as a technical authority and lead engineer, responsible for architecting complex network solutions, guiding implementation efforts, and advising stakeholders on network strategy and modernization initiatives. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in IP networking, telecommunications backhaul, and wireless communications, with the ability to operate across both strategic design and hands-on technical execution in complex, high-availability environments.

Responsibilities • Lead the design, architecture, and modernization of communications system networks to improve performance, scalability, and resiliency • Serve as the technical subject matter expert (SME) for IP networking and telecommunications infrastructure, providing guidance to engineering teams and stakeholders • Develop and review network architectures for telecommunications backhaul, including routers, switches, gateways, and RF/microwave transport systems • Evaluate and refine vendor network designs to ensure alignment with mission requirements, performance standards, and security considerations • Troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues across wired and wireless environments, including microwave and RF-based systems • Oversee configuration, testing, and validation of network components in lab and operational environments • Provide technical leadership in system integration efforts, including coordination with network operations teams on IP addressing, routing, and system interfaces • Support change management processes and ensure proper documentation, risk assessment, and implementation planning • Engage with customers to gather requirements, define technical solutions, and support system design and modernization strategies • Support procurement decisions by evaluating technologies, vendors, and system capabilities • Develop and deliver technical documentation, executive briefings, white papers, and architecture diagrams for both technical and non-technical stakeholders • Develop technical documentation, executive briefings, presentations, and white papers for stakeholders Requirements • Desired BS in CompSci/CompEng/ElecEng/Networking OR other BS degree with current networking certifications from CompTIA, Cisco and Junipe • 10+ years’ experience in IP networking, communications systems engineering, or telecommunications infrastructure • Experience supporting RF-based communication transport systems. • Demonstrated experience designing and implementing complex network architectures, including telecommunications backhaul solutions • Deep knowledge of IP networking protocols and technologies (e.g., TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, VLANs, routing/switching) • Strong experience troubleshooting complex wired and wireless networks, including microwave, RF, or similar transport systems • Experience reviewing, evaluating, and modifying vendor network designs and system architectures • Experience working within structured change management and configuration control environments • Strong communication skills with the ability to present technical concepts to leadership and stakeholders • Must have active DOD Secret clearance or DHS Tier 2 BI with up-to-date investigation.

Why Join Chartis Federal? We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including: • Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) • Retirement plans with company contributions • Professional development opportunities and career growth support • A dynamic and collaborative work environment where your contributions are valued At Chartis Federal, we believe in fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and innovation while supporting critical national security missions. Join us in shaping the future of government contracting and national security solutions.

Chartis Federal is an

Equal Opportunity Employer and employs qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other classification proscribed under applicable law. We participate in E-Verify.