Network Engineer

Network EngineerFort Worth, TX – Onsite 5 days per week 6-month contract-to-hireBetween $63-$70/hr W2, depending on experienceWe are seeking an experienced Network Engineer to join our Client’s IT team and take a lead role in the design, implementation, optimization, security, and ongoing support of the enterprise and hybrid cloud network environments. This role requires deep hands-on expertise in datacenter networking, private connectivity (carrier circuits), and cloud integration, including the routing of enterprise traffic between on‑premises infrastructure and public cloud platforms.This position will be expected to take ownership of the enterprise network environment, serving as the primary technical authority responsible for architecture, standards, resilience, and long-term evolution of the network.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign, implement, and support enterprise network architectures, including LAN, WAN, wireless, VPN, and firewall environmentsDefine and approve network design patterns, standards, and toolingLead configuration, optimization, and troubleshooting of routing, switching, and security platforms in primarily Cisco-based environmentsOwn and evolve network security controls, including firewalls, VPNs, segmentation, access controls, and monitoringAct as a technical escalation point for complex network issues and outages, driving root cause analysis and long-term remediationDevelop, maintain, and enforce network standards, architecture diagrams, and operational documentationPlan and execute network changes following ITIL-based change management and best practicesPartner with vendors, service providers, and data centers on design reviews, implementations, upgrades, and support casesMonitor network health, capacity, and performance; proactively identify risks, bottlenecks, and improvement opportunitiesSupport and enhance cloud and hybrid networking architectures (Azure preferred)Oversee and support enterprise VoIP solutions and supporting network infrastructureContribute to disaster recovery planning, testing, and network resiliency initiativesMentor junior team members and provide technical guidance where appropriateParticipate in infrastructure projects and cross-functional initiatives as a networking subject matter expertParticipate in on-call rotation or after-hours support as neededEducationBachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)Certifications (Preferred)Cisco CCNP (or equivalent Juniper certification)CCNA minimum; advanced certifications strongly preferredExperience8+ years of progressive experience in network engineering or advanced network administration rolesDemonstrated experience designing and supporting enterprise-scale Cisco routing and switching environmentsHands-on experience supporting firewalls and network security platforms in production environmentsSkills And Technical ExpertiseAdvanced expertise in switching technologies (VLANs, STP, trunking, EtherChannel, QoS)Strong hands-on experience with Cisco Catalyst and Nexus platformsIn-depth knowledge of routing protocols (EIGRP, OSPF, BGP) and enterprise routing designProven experience with network security and firewall technologies (ACLs, IPSec VPNs, NAT/PAT, certificates)Experience supporting enterprise services such as DNS, DHCP, and authentication services (Windows environments preferred)Familiarity with cloud and hybrid networking concepts, particularly in Microsoft Azure and AWSExperience with network monitoring, logging, and alerting toolsWorking knowledge of RADIUS/AAA for wired and wireless authenticationExperience supporting VoIP platforms (RingCentral or similar preferred)Ability to independently lead technical efforts while collaborating effectively across teamsStrong communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholdersExcellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilitiesAbility to lift and install network and server equipment as needed