Network Solutions Architect

Network Solution ArchitectLocation: South Plainfield, NJ — Hybrid, 3 days onsite per weekRole SummaryWe are seeking an experienced Network Architect / Solution Architect to provide network design leadership and technical documentation for an ADMS Hardware Upgrade Project. The role will focus on developing network architecture diagrams, defining secure communication paths, designing firewall rules, documenting IP addressing and hostnames, and conducting network failure-mode analysis to ensure reliability, security, and real-time performance.Key Responsibilities1. Network & System ArchitectureDevelop detailed network and system architecture diagrams for ADMS components and integrations, including OMS, SCADA, DMS, DERMS, and GIS.Document system processes, network flows, communication paths, and interface points in accordance with enterprise architecture standards.Support the design, optimization, and integration of ADMS capabilities within the broader enterprise architecture.Define network connectivity and architecture requirements for mission-critical operational environments.2. Firewall & Security ArchitectureDesign, draft, and validate firewall rules and secure communication paths supporting ADMS environments.Define secure interfaces and architecture standards for ADMS components and supporting systems.Ensure network and security designs meet OT/IT cybersecurity requirements while supporting real-time operational performance.Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to identify and address network security risks.3. IP Addressing, Hostnames & Network SegmentationDocument IP addressing schemes, hostnames, LAN/VLAN segments, routing requirements, and network dependencies.Maintain comprehensive technical documentation for ADMS hardware upgrades and integrated platforms.Define and document network segmentation and security zones across OT/IT environments.Ensure network documentation supports data integrity, enterprise integration, and future scalability.4. Network Failure-Mode Analysis & TestingIdentify technical risks, network dependencies, potential failure modes, and mitigation strategies.Support or lead testing of failover scenarios, redundancy models, network segmentation, and real-time performance.Validate network designs for reliability and availability across mission-critical systems.Ensure the architecture supports outage management, switching operations, grid reliability, and real-time situational awareness.Collaboration & CommunicationWork closely with Grid Operations, OT teams, SCADA engineers, cybersecurity teams, enterprise architects, and technology vendors.Translate complex network and architecture concepts into clear technical documentation.Communicate technical risks, design decisions, and recommendations effectively to both technical and business stakeholders.Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure network architecture aligns with operational and business requirements.Required QualificationsProven experience in enterprise network architecture and design.Strong knowledge of LAN/WAN, routing, switching, firewalls, network segmentation, redundancy, and security zoning.Experience designing and supporting networks for real-time, mission-critical, or operational technology environments.Strong ability to develop architecture diagrams, network documentation, and technical design specifications.Demonstrated ability to identify technical risks and develop effective mitigation strategies.Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills.Preferred / Highly Desirable ExperienceExperience with ADMS, SCADA, OMS, DMS, DERMS, and GIS environments.Experience supporting large-scale ADMS modernization, hardware upgrades, utility network transformation, or OT infrastructure programs.Knowledge of secure OT/IT boundary architecture and operational technology security requirements.Understanding of telemetry flows, control center operations, and grid connectivity requirements.Experience working in the electric utility, energy, or critical infrastructure sector.Familiarity with high-availability and redundant network architectures for real-time operational systems.Top 3 SkillsEnterprise Network Architecture & DesignFirewall Rules & Security Design for OT/IT EnvironmentsNetwork Documentation & Failure-Mode Analysis