Network Specialist III (Sr-Level) with Security Clearance

Senior Network Specialist Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Senior Network Specialist to support the design, implementation, optimization, and sustainment of complex enterprise network infrastructures. The successful candidate will serve as a technical leader responsible for network architecture, advanced troubleshooting, security compliance, and strategic modernization initiatives. This position requires extensive experience supporting large-scale network environments and the ability to provide expert guidance to engineering teams, leadership, and customers. Key Responsibilities * Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise network infrastructure supporting mission-critical operations.
* Serve as the primary technical resource for complex routing, switching, wireless, and network security solutions.
* Analyze existing network architectures and recommend improvements to enhance performance, scalability, reliability, and security.
* Lead network modernization, migration, and technology refresh initiatives.
* Troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues involving multiple technologies and environments.
* Develop and review network designs, engineering documentation, diagrams, implementation plans, and standard operating procedures.
* Conduct root cause analysis and provide recommendations to prevent recurring incidents.
* Support network security initiatives, including segmentation, access control, compliance, and vulnerability remediation efforts.
* Collaborate with cybersecurity, cloud, systems, and application teams to support enterprise-wide initiatives.
* Mentor junior and mid-level engineers and provide technical leadership across the organization.
* Develop and present technical briefings to government customers, executive leadership, and stakeholders.
* Participate in strategic planning and contribute to long-term network architecture roadmaps.
Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field. Additional years of experience may be substituted for education.
* 8-12+ years of experience designing, implementing, and supporting enterprise network environments.
* Active CompTIA Security+ certification.
* Active Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification.
* Advanced experience with Cisco routing and switching technologies.
* Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, OSPF, BGP, EIGRP, MPLS, VLANs, QoS, STP, and network segmentation.
* Experience with enterprise firewall technologies, VPNs, NAC solutions, and network security best practices.
* Experience supporting highly available, redundant, and geographically dispersed network environments.
* Demonstrated experience leading technical projects and engineering teams.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills.
* Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or equivalent advanced networking certification.
* Experience with Cisco Catalyst, Nexus, ISR, ASR, Meraki, and SD-WAN technologies.
* Experience with Aruba wireless solutions and wireless network architecture.
* Experience with cloud networking in AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
* Knowledge of network automation using Python, Ansible, Terraform, or PowerShell.
* Experience supporting federal, defense, intelligence, or other regulated environments.
* Familiarity with Zero Trust architecture and modern network security frameworks.
* Experience with network monitoring and performance management platforms.
* Active Secret clearance required.
Compensation * Salary: $65,000 - 75,000 **depending on experience** * Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k Plan, Holidays, PTO, sick leave as required by law * Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.