Network Engineer

*****NO C2C OR THIRD PARTY INQUIRIES*****Network EngineerLocation: Melbourne, FL, 32940 - Fully on site to start; option to work hybrid once acclimatedDuration: 4 Month Contract to HireSalary: $110k - $130kThe Network Engineer is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of LAN & WAN networks, including Cisco and Palo Alto hardware and software maintenance, core services installation, and troubleshooting Satcom Direct Government and services. This role involves designing, installing, and optimizing network infrastructure across multiple locations to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The engineer also provides support for military and company personnel as needed.Network Architecture & Engineering: Support the design, implementation, and lifecycle management of enterprise and enclave network systems supporting global and mission-critical operationsDevelop and execute strategic roadmaps for next-generation infrastructure, driving modernization, security, and scalability across Company’s infrastructureImplement and operate private, secure networks for worldwide PoPs and specialized military/government environments, ensuring compliance with stringent standardsDeliver high availability, redundancy and scalability across Company’s global infrastructure (Amsterdam, Melbourne, Ashburn, Sydney)Planning & Design: Create and maintain high- and low-level network design documentation and drawings to guide implementation, operations and future growthManage large-scale IP Address Management (IPAM) for customers and provider networksResearch and evaluate new technologies, develop test plans and proof of concept solutions that enhance performance and reduce costsSupport technical refreshes, upgrades, and infrastructure modernization initiatives to align with business growthManage project budgets and deliver cost-effective solutions while maintaining enterprise grade reliabilityProcurement & Vendor Management: Develop Bills of Materials (BOMs) and Request for Quotes (RFQs) for enterprise network hardware, software, servicesAdminister licensing, vendor agreements and renewals to ensure compliance, availability, and support coverageOversee inventory tracking and lifecycle management for network components across the global infrastructureInstallation & Configuration: Support the installation and configuration of network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls and virtual systems across the global infrastructure.Ensure compliance with cabling standards, optimized rack layouts, and industry best practices for reliability and scalability.Diagnose and resolve complex hardware and software issues, driving root cause analysis, and corrective action to minimize downtime.Operations & Maintenance: Oversee global infrastructure, leveraging monitoring systems to detect and remediate issues before they impact customersProvide 24/7 support for critical network events and emergencies, leading root cause analysis and restoration effortsMaintain accurate documentation, network diagrams, and performance logs to ensure operational continuityConduct after-hours maintenance, risk analysis, and infrastructure upgrades to minimize disruption during peak business hoursSecurity & Compliance: Implement and maintain network security policies, firewall configurations, and VPN solutions to safeguard enterprise and government environmentsConfigure and troubleshoot authentication, authorization, and security hardening controls across routers, switches, firewalls, and virtual machinesEnsure adherence to security standards, while continuously monitoring for vulnerabilities and potential threatsFinancial Strategy: Reduce CAPEX/OPEX expenditures through consolidation and optimization of network resourcesDrive cost savings using vendor discounts, leveraging bulk purchasing, and securing favorable contract termsEvaluate vendor sales recommendations to avoid unnecessary technology purchasesTraining & Development: Pursue ongoing professional development through certifications, advanced training, and vendor partnerships to stay ahead of evolving technologiesMentor team members through technical training and knowledge-sharing sessionsSupport the adoption of new tools and methodologies by translating training and research into practical solutions for enterprise networksQualificationsBachelor’s Degree in a related field, or equivalent professional experience5+ years of hands-on experience with designing, implementing, and supporting enterprise network infrastructureCisco CCNP R&S and CCDP certifications or equivalent advanced networking certifications preferredRequired Skills, Experience, and Talents Expertise in Cisco platforms (ISR, Nexus, NCS, ASR) and Palo Alto firewallsProficient in LAN/WAN protocols including BGP, MPLS, OSPF, STP, and VXLANFamiliarity with Linux (Rocky 8/Fedora) and network management and monitoring systemsStrong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills with a proven ability to diagnose and resolve complex problemsSkilled in network documentation and design using tools such as Visio, phpIPAM, or NetBox; proficient in productivity suitesAbility to rapidly learn and apply new networking technologies, tools, and methodologies in dynamic environmentsPreferred Skills, Experience, and TalentsProven capability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlinesExcellent verbal and written communication skillsAbility to work both independently and within a team environment