Senior Principal Network Engineer

Job ID 2612448Location San Diego, CA, USDate Posted 2026-05-12Category Information TechnologySubcategory Network EngineerSchedule Full-TimeShift Day JobTravel Yes - 10% of the timeMinimum Clearance Required SecretClearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain Top SecretPotential for Remote Work ORA_ON_SITEDescription SAIC is seeking a Senior Network Engineer to support advanced defense communication network systems. Join our innovative team and contribute to mission-critical efforts in network design, integration, and security for cutting-edge DoD programs. This role is ONSITE in San Diego, CA.Your RoleYou'll leverage your expertise to advise the government and ensure the successful design, development, testing, and implementation of secure, high-performance network systems. You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage technical tasks, and ensure projects meet operational, cost, and schedule requirements.Job DutiesNetwork Engineer serving as the technical authority for network design and implementationTranslate complex operational requirements into robust network and Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI) designsApply DoD accreditation processes, including DIACAP and RMF, to ensure system compliance and securityImplement and maintain network security in accordance with Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and NETSEC directives (IAVA, IAVM)Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during integration, implementation, and testing phasesProvide technical direction, mentorship, and training to less experienced staffInterface regularly with management, customers, and team members to ensure alignment and progressSupport the management of task orders, coordinating with multiple agencies, vendors, and customers to achieve program goalsQualificationsREQUIREMENTSBachelors and fourteen (14) years or more experience; Masters and twelve (12) years or more experience; PhD or JD and nine (9) years or more experienceMust be a U.S. citizenMust have an Active Secret clearance to startMust be able to obtain a Top Secret clearance after start6+ years of hands-on experience translating requirements into network and HCI designsStrong working knowledge of firewalls and networking fundamentalsSolid understanding of Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI) architecturesExceptional communication and problem-solving skillsA demonstrated ability to learn and apply new technologies quicklyDesired SkillsSecurity+ certification (required within 6 months of hire)VMware Certified Professional (VCP) certification preferredExperience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)Familiarity with DoD accreditation processes (DIACAP and RMF)Working knowledge of STIG implementation for network equipment lockdownExperience maintaining networks in compliance with NETSEC directivesProficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Visio, Project, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and WordTarget salary range $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.