Network Architect

HYBRID WORK - 3 DAYS ONSITE

/ 190K-205k / Stamford, CT We are seeking a Network Architect / Modernization Leader to drive the transformation of our enterprise Cisco network infrastructure. This role is responsible for evolving legacy environments into modern, scalable, secure, and automated network architectures, leveraging emerging technologies such as SDWAN, cloud integration, and zero trust design. The ideal candidate combines deep Cisco expertise with a forwardthinking approach to modernization, automation, and business alignment. Key Responsibilities Network Modernization Strategy Lead the end-to-end modernization strategy for enterprise network infrastructure Assess current-state environments and define future-state architecture roadmaps Drive migration from legacy designs to: SDWAN (Cisco Viptela / Meraki) Software-defined and intent-based networking Zero Trust and segmentation-based architectures Align network strategy with cloud, security, and business transformation initiatives Architecture & Design Leadership Architect enterprise-grade network solutions across: Campus, data center, and WAN environments Multi-site and geographically distributed networks Design core/distribution/access architectures and modern data center fabrics: Cisco Nexus, Catalyst, ACI, VXLAN/EVPN Define standards for: High availability, resiliency, and fault tolerance Traffic engineering and routing design (BGP, OSPF) Security & Zero Trust Enablement Drive network security architecture including: Segmentation (VRF, microsegmentation) Firewalls (Cisco Firepower, Palo Alto, Fortinet) Identity-based access and Zero Trust models Ensure compliance with enterprise security frameworks and policies Automation & Innovation Champion network automation and programmability: Python, Ansible, REST APIs, Terraform Move towards Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) for network provisioning and management Evaluate and implement emerging technologies and tools Leadership & Governance Act as a technical leader and thought partner across infrastructure, security, and cloud teams Mentor engineers and define architecture standards and best practices Lead design reviews, architecture governance, and technical decision-making Communicate complex technical strategies to executive stakeholders Required Qualifications 10+ years of experience in network engineering/architecture, with leadership responsibilities Deep expertise in Cisco enterprise networking technologies, including: Catalyst, Nexus, Cisco routing platforms Proven experience leading network modernization initiatives Strong knowledge of: Routing protocols (BGP, OSPF) Network segmentation and security architecture Experience designing large-scale, multi-site enterprise networks Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills Preferred Qualifications Cisco certifications: CCNP or CCIE (strongly preferred) Experience with: Cisco SDWAN (Viptela / Meraki) Cisco

ACI / VXLAN / EVPN

data center fabrics Hybrid cloud networking (AWS/Azure) Experience with: Network automation (Python, Ansible, Terraform) Background in regulated, high-availability environments