Manassas, Virginia, USA
1 day ago
Network Architect
Job Title: Network ArchitectJob Description

We are seeking a Network Engineer to join a pivotal engineering team dedicated to developing new architectures for large Naval Submarine subsystems. This role involves designing a common, open-architecture system-of-systems electronic design aboard submarines to enhance interoperability during joint operations with integrated fighting forces. Essentially, this system acts as the central nervous system of a submarine, connecting all other subsystems. The engineer will utilize their expertise to design the submarine's network system, creating a private cloud for edge communication.

ResponsibilitiesDesign, enhance, and plan computer network communications, including creating specifications and schematics for network architecture across multiple subsystems.Evaluate and recommend network hardware and software selections, implementation techniques, and tools to meet tactical programmatic needs while considering present and future capacity requirements.Oversee network monitoring, maintenance, configuration management, network support, problem resolution, system performance analysis, performance metrics analysis, and failure analysis on the product network.Interface with customers, developers, and support programs to ensure optimal communication flow between subsystems.Conduct performance and failover testing of network devices and assess their impact on system stability.Maintain technical expertise in network and computer hardware/software interconnection and interfaces, including firewalls, routers, switches, gateways, middleware, and OSI layer 1/2/3/4 functionality.Evaluate and recommend new technologies to enhance network system performance and monitoring capabilities.Perform network documentation for working group presentations and exchanges.Evaluate the use of dual Container Network Interface (CNI) plugins to support multiple Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) sizes and assess the feasibility of using a single MTU within the PaaS environment versus dual MTUs for external workloads.Migrate to a 10.CCE for the PaaS network and reduce the number of Access Control Lists (ACLs) for Control Plane traffic in Platform as a Service (PaaS) while maintaining subsystem subnet ingress/egress.Essential Skills5+ years of network integration experience with various network protocol standards such as TCP/IP, HSRP/VRRP, RIP, OSPF, BGP, RSTP (802.1w), MSTP (802.1s), DHCP, 802.1q tagging, multicast, PAgP or LACP (EtherChannel), QoS, and Active-Active technologies (vPC and IRF).Experience in analyzing VLANs, spanning-tree, routing (both static and dynamically implemented protocols), ACLs, IP addressing, and subnetting.Proficiency with packet analysis tools such as Wireshark or Sniffers.Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, IT, or related field.Experience with Kubernetes and Container Network Interfaces (CNI) technologies such as Calico, Flannels, and Canal.Experience with ACLs.Eligibility for a US Secret Clearance.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience in architecting and building complex supercomputing networks.Network troubleshooting and problem identification skills.Familiarity with network device vendors such as Cisco and Arista.Knowledge of 1/10/25/40/100 Gig protocols, serial and satellite links, cable standards, and optical specifications/requirements.Familiarity with Linux OS, SNMP, and Python.Desirable knowledge of TCP/UDP protocol packet format.Experience with Software Defined Networking using OVS is a plus.Work Environment

The position requires 100% onsite work with occasional work-from-home flexibility for circumstances such as sick days or paperwork. The team works four-day weeks, with 10-hour days, offering significant schedule flexibility while maintaining onsite presence.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Manassas, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $70.00 - $90.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Manassas,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 20, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

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