Senior Network Architect

Job Description

Job Profile Tasks/Responsibilities:

Essential duties/responsibilities primary to the role, in order of time spent (from highest to lowest):

• Network Design & Infrastructure Development:
  • Design, implement, and optimize secure, scalable, and high-performance network infrastructures for manufacturing environments, focusing on SCADA, DCS, and industrial automation systems.
  • Integrate industrial networks with IT systems to support critical production processes and real-time data collection and analysis.
  • Collaborate with operations and IT teams to ensure networks meet uptime, scalability, and security requirements for mission-critical systems.
• SCADA/DCS & Industrial System Integration:
  • Design and deploy networks supporting SCADA and DCS systems, ensuring secure communication and real-time data exchange between industrial control systems and enterprise systems.
  • Develop and implement network protocols and standards for efficient integration of sensors, controllers, and industrial automation devices.
• Telecommunications & Radio Systems:
  • Design and implement secure wireless and radio communication systems for remote monitoring and control in large manufacturing facilities.
  • Develop and maintain radio communication systems including Wi-Fi, LTE, and private radio networks, ensuring reliability, low latency, and security.
• Cybersecurity & Regulatory Compliance:
  • Ensure all network systems adhere to industry standards and best practices for security, particularly for industrial control systems (ICS).
  • Maintain compliance with ITAR, Export Control Implementation (ECI), and DOE CFR, particularly in the context of sensitive data and government-regulated manufacturing environments.
  • Design and deploy network security solutions (firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs) for industrial networks, ensuring integrity, confidentiality, and availability of critical systems.
• Project Management & Vendor Coordination:
  • Lead network design projects, coordinating with vendors, contractors, and internal stakeholders to deliver robust solutions within scope and budget.
  • Oversee project lifecycle, from design and implementation through to operational deployment and ongoing support.
• Network Performance Optimization & Troubleshooting:
  • Continuously monitor network performance and take proactive measures to optimize the network for speed, reliability, and security.
  • Troubleshoot complex network issues related to industrial control systems, ensuring minimal downtime and disruption to production.
• Documentation & Knowledge Transfer:
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation for network designs, configurations, and security protocols.
  • Provide training and guidance to junior team members and internal stakeholders regarding best practices for network operations and security.

Job Profile Minimum Qualifications:

These minimum qualifications are required and must be met by everyone in this position level of the role.

• Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • 14 years of experience in network architecture, with a focus on manufacturing environments, SCADA, DCS, and radio telecommunications.
• Certifications:
  • Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) or equivalent network certification.
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or equivalent security certification.
  • Experience with relevant industrial control systems protocols such as Modbus, OPC, Ethernet/IP, Profibus is highly desirable.
• Technical Skills and Experience:
  • Strong experience designing, deploying, and managing secure networks for manufacturing plants, including SCADA and DCS systems.
  • Expertise in designing and configuring firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), VPNs, and SD-WAN for industrial networks.
  • In-depth understanding of industrial network protocols and systems integration (SCADA, DCS, IIoT, etc.).
  • Experience with wireless communications, radio networks, and RF technologies (Wi-Fi, LTE, private radio) in manufacturing environments.
• Cybersecurity Expertise:
  • Proven experience designing and implementing security measures tailored to industrial networks, with an emphasis on regulatory compliance.
  • Familiarity with ITAR, ECI, and DOE CFR regulatory standards and how they affect network and security architecture.
• Additional Skills:
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex network issues.
  • Leadership experience in managing cross-functional teams and vendor relationships.
  • Ability to deliver results under pressure, managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Additional Job Profile Tasks/Responsibilities (Level V)

• Leadership & Mentorship:
  • Lead and execute core network design tasks, providing strategic direction and oversight for projects without close supervision.
  • Mentor junior network engineers, sharing industry best practices and providing guidance on technical challenges.
  • Take ownership of network projects from initial design through deployment and post-implementation support.
• Industry Best Practices & Knowledge Sharing:
  • Share knowledge and insights regarding industry standards, emerging technologies, and best practices related to network architecture and industrial control systems.
  • Regularly review and recommend improvements for network infrastructure and security to enhance scalability and resilience.