Principal Network Solutions Architect

job summary:

Randstad is seeking a Principal Network Solutions Architect to lead the strategic vision and tactical execution of complex enterprise network infrastructure for a key transportation industry client based in Washington, DC. In this role, you will bridge the gap between business strategy and technical execution, serving as a change agent who defines future-state network architecture, builds consensus across business units, and guides projects through the entire lifecycle-from initial kickoff to full deployment. You will collaborate closely with Network Infrastructure Services to design, validate, and deliver sustainable, high-performing network environments, balancing immediate business needs with long-term Enterprise Architecture goals.

location: Washington, Washington, D.C.
job type: Contract
salary: $75 - 85 per hour
work hours: 9am to 5pm
education: Bachelors
responsibilities:

Architectural Vision & Leadership: Facilitate the development and adoption of future-state enterprise network architecture while actively aligning technology capabilities with overarching business strategies.

End-to-End Project Life Cycle: Drive network solutioning across all phases-conceiving strategies, gathering requirements, leading engineering design, and supporting implementation and execution.

Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a technical advisor and visionary across business areas; present design proposals to Network Infrastructure Services teams to gain cross-functional buy-in and approval.

Technical Deliverables & Governance: Generate comprehensive technical documentation, including 15%, 30%, 60%, 90%, and 100% design review feedback for construction projects, Network Topologies, site Wi-Fi/cellular heatmaps, Statements of Work (SOWs), and Bills of Materials (BOMs) for CapEx projects.

Infrastructure Solutioning: Architect high-performing, reusable, and secure network infrastructure leveraging advanced routing, switching, wireless, and cellular technologies.

Strategic & Tactical Execution: Balance long-term architectural standards with pragmatic, short-term tactical solutions to maintain system reliability and business agility.

qualifications:

Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree (or equivalent work experience/specialized training) with a minimum of 10 years in IT, including 10+ years of hands-on technology network operations, architecture, and engineering experience.

Core Network Capabilities: High-level, hands-on expertise in enterprise routing and switching architectures, with deep command of protocols including BGP, EIGRP, and OSPF.

Large-Scale Program Success: Demonstrated track record of network solutioning (switches, WAPs, cellular) for multi-million dollar, large-scale heterogeneous IT programs.

Architectural Frameworks: Functional knowledge of Enterprise Architecture (EA) frameworks, Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA), and architectural modeling principles.

Communication & Soft Skills: Outstanding verbal and written communication skills with proven experience presenting technical vision to internal engineering teams and executive stakeholders.

Preferred Industry Experience: Prior experience in the transportation sector or supporting mission-critical enterprise environments.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.
At Randstad Digital, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact
Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Randstad Digital offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: medical, prescription, dental, vision, AD&D, and life insurance offerings, short-term disability, and a 401K plan (all benefits are based on eligibility).
This posting is open for thirty (30) days.