Senior Operational Network Engineer (50% Travel)

Overview of Opportunity 

Two Six Technologies is currently looking for a highly qualified Senior Operational Network Engineer with Linux experience in our Laurel, MD office. The successful candidate will lead the design and implementation of complex networks that support cutting-edge cybersecurity research and development. As a key player in high-priority, high-growth programs, the Senior Operational Network Engineer should possess a strong problem-solving mindset and the ability to operate within fast changing conditions to achieve project goals with speed and agility. You will be responsible for managing custom systems, networks, and systems-under-test, tasked with developing innovative solutions across the national security community. The ideal candidate will have an “all hands on deck” mentality, delivering engineering services for network infrastructures at various CONUS and OCONUS work sites.

Responsibilities Include:

• Design, implement, and maintain secure, scalable, and high-performance network architectures to support business and customer operations.
• Configure and manage network devices, including routers, switches, firewalls (e.g., Cisco, Juniper).
• Monitor network performance, troubleshoot complex issues, and ensure minimal downtime.
• Lead network security initiatives, including firewall management, VPN configuration, and intrusion detection systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate network solutions with cloud platforms.
• Develop and maintain network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and procedures.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to the IT team.
• Stay current with industry trends and recommend innovative solutions to enhance network infrastructure.
• Ensure that complex systems are prepared for use and respond quickly to requests as needed.
• Travel to various customer locations for support activities.
• Proactively communicate status to team lead.
• Demonstrate autonomy while carrying out assignments, guided by operation policies, practices, and procedures within an assigned set of projects or functions.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Active Top Secret with the ability to obtain TS/SCI and poly.
• 5+ years of experience designing, configuring, administering, and maintaining enterprise networking devices (Cisco, Juniper, etc).
• 5+ years of experience with Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, routing, and VLANs.
• Expertise in network protocols (TCP/IP, OSPF, VLAN, VPN, etc.).
• Proficient in using the Linux command line.
• Advanced critical thinking and problem solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to confidently and competently engage with customers, understand their needs, and deliver outstanding service in dynamic environments.
• Experience with virtualization environments such as VMware or Proxmox.
• Ability to work onsite in Laurel, Maryland.
• Must be willing to travel to CONUS & OCONUS work sites up to 50% of the time to support program objectives.

Nice to Haves:

• IAT Level II or higher certification.
• CCNA, CCNP, JNCIA or equivalent certification(s).
• Experience configuring, administering, and maintaining Linux servers or workstations.
• Experience in cyber operations.
• Experience with classified lab networks and requirements (SCIF or SAPF).
• Experience with LDAP/Kerberos authentication protocols.
• Experience with scripting languages such as Python and Bash.
• Experience with infrastructure automation tools such as Ansible, Chef, or Puppet.
• Experience with containerization tools such as Docker or Kubernetes.
• Experience setting up and maintaining high-availability systems.
• Cloud experience (AWS, Azure, etc.).
• Security best practices and implementing firewalls and perimeter security measures including VPN technologies.
• TS/SCI with polygraph.

Clearance Requirements:

• Active Top Secret with the ability to obtain TS/SCI and poly.

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