Network Architect (Santa Clara County)
Are you a deeply technical network architect who enjoys peer-level engineering discussions - but also wants to influence high-value infrastructure decisions?This is a core architecture-led position designed for an expert who can design, build, automate, and debug complex EVPN/VXLAN fabrics down to the packet level, rather than just configure them. If you're equally comfortable in whiteboard design sessions and deep troubleshooting labs, this role offers both challenge and influence.What You'll Be DoingDesign, implement, and evolve EVPN/VXLAN datacenter fabrics (L2/L3, symmetric/asymmetric IRB, multi-VRF, multi-tenant)Perform deep troubleshooting across control plane and data plane (BGP EVPN, VXLAN, Linux kernel networking, ASIC behavior)Architect and validate high-scale datacenter network designsConfigure and operate networking platforms based on Cumulus Linux, SONiC, and the Linux networking stack (iproute2, netlink, nftables/iptables, bridges, VRFs)Work with BGP (R&S and DC) at expert level (EVPN, route-targets, policy, scale considerations)Design and debug high-performance routing/forwarding paths using DPDK and XDP/eBPFCollaborate with engineering, automation, and operations teams to build reliable and repeatable network solutionsReview designs and configurations with a strong emphasis on accuracy, determinism, and failure handlingWhat We're Looking ForCCIE Routing & Switching and/or CCIE Data Center level knowledge (certification optional, skills mandatory) OR strong hands-on experience with Cumulus LinuxProven experience designing and operating EVPN/VXLAN datacenter fabrics in productionExcellent Linux networking knowledge, including kernel behavior and packet flowAbility to troubleshoot complex issues using tools such as tcpdump, dropwatch, perf, and bpftool or other routing stacksSolid understanding of datacenter hardware and ASIC-based switchingFluent English (spoken and written)Desirable ExperienceExperience with network automation and orchestration (e.g. Terraform, Ansible, custom tooling)Experience working with GPU/AI or high-throughput datacenter environmentsWhy This Role?Competitive base salary designed to improve on current compensationPotential stock optionsOpportunity to help shape next-generation AI networking infrastructureHighly technical, architecture-led engagement requiring true packet-level mastery