Enterprise Network Architect
K2 Services
Full-time
On-site
Chicago, Illinois, United States
POSITION SUMMARY:
The role of Enterprise Network Architect at K2 Services is a key role responsible for designing and implementing robust, scalable, and secure network infrastructure solutions to support the organization's operations. This position requires a deep understanding of networking technologies, strong architectural skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to ensure the reliability, performance, and security of the network environment.
Compensation: 130,000-150,000 USD annual base salary
Location: Chicago, Hybrid
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Network Architecture and Design:
The role of Enterprise Network Architect at K2 Services is a key role responsible for designing and implementing robust, scalable, and secure network infrastructure solutions to support the organization's operations. This position requires a deep understanding of networking technologies, strong architectural skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to ensure the reliability, performance, and security of the network environment.
Compensation: 130,000-150,000 USD annual base salary
Location: Chicago, Hybrid
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Network Architecture and Design:
- Lead the design and development of enterprise network architectures, including but not limited to LAN, WAN, WLAN, and SD-WAN technologies, to meet business requirements and objectives.
- Evaluate existing network systems and architectures, identifying opportunities for improvement, optimization, and standardization to enhance reliability, scalability, and performance.
- Act as the primary/lead team member working with the business development teams to create project plans and scoping for new business opportunities related to network projects.
- Work with internal stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered within budget by fellow network team members and are successful in their project delivery.
- Drive project efficiency and effectiveness through coaching and mentoring. Develop deployment strategies that allow for measuring continued improvement.
- Complete network infrastructure integration projects as required.
- Implement and configure network infrastructure components, including routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers, ensuring proper setup, integration, and interoperability.
- Collaborate with system administrators and security teams to configure network security policies, access controls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems to protect against cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
- Work with Tooling teams to develop monitoring metrics of traffic patterns that proactively identify bottlenecks, congestion, and latency issues.
- Develop standards with Enterprise Architecture to optimize network performance and user experience.
- Conduct capacity planning assessments to forecast network bandwidth requirements and ensure adequate capacity to support business growth and scalability.
- Implement and enforce network security best practices and controls, including encryption, VPNs, and network segmentation, to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Work with Security teams to conduct regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and penetration tests to identify and remediate security vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the network infrastructure.
- Develop and maintain incident response and disaster recovery plans for network systems, ensuring timely detection, escalation, and resolution of network incidents to minimize impact on business operations.
- Coordinate with incident response teams and service providers to restore network services in the event of network outages, disruptions, or security breaches.
- Create documentation standards and ensure all team members adhere to documentation standards.
- Document network configurations, diagrams, and procedures, maintaining comprehensive and up-to-date documentation to support operational activities and knowledge transfer.
- Provide training and knowledge sharing sessions to IT staff and stakeholders on network technologies, best practices, and procedures.
- Manage vendor relationships and partnerships, including contract negotiations, service level agreements (SLAs), and performance reviews, to ensure alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
- Collaborate with vendors and third-party providers to evaluate and implement new networking technologies, solutions, and services to meet business requirements.
- Strong technical expertise in networking technologies and protocols, including TCP/IP, VLANs, OSPF, BGP, MPLS, VPNs, and DNS.
- Proficiency in network hardware and software, including routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, and network management tools.
- Excellent architectural and design skills, with the ability to develop scalable and resilient network architectures to meet business needs.
- Solid understanding of network security principles and best practices, including encryption, access controls, and security policies.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional development to stay updated on emerging networking technologies and industry trends.
- Experience:
- Minimum 7-10 years of experience in network engineering or related roles, with a focus on designing, implementing, and maintaining enterprise network infrastructure solutions.
- Education/Certifications:
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field; relevant certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, or CISSP preferred.
- Credentials:
- Demonstrated experience in leading network architecture projects and initiatives, with a track record of delivering reliable, scalable, and secure network solutions.