Network Engineering and Operations SETA

Twenty8Tech (a REDHAWK Company) has an immediate opening for an IT Network Operations SME with demonstrated 12 years of IT experience with increasing responsibility with at least 5 years in IT Operations. DOD or DARPA experience preferred.

Minimum Top-Secret clearance, eligible for access to SCI and SAP.

Agency Description The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is an independent research and development agency within the U.S. Department of War, dedicated to creating and preventing technological surprise for national security. DARPA collaborates with innovators in academia, industry, and government to turn ambitious concepts into world-changing defense capabilities. Rather than pursuing incremental improvements, the agency focuses on transformational breakthroughs that address current challenges and shape future strategic advantages. DARPA’s work has led to revolutionary military technologies and widely used civilian innovations, including the modern internet, advanced GPS, and foundational mRNA vaccine research. Team members join a dynamic innovation ecosystem where bold ideas and diverse perspectives drive rapid progress in emerging technologies.

Role Description The Network Engineering and Operations SETA (Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance) professional provides technical advisory support to DARPA program managers, focusing on the design, deployment, operation, and sustainment of advanced networked systems. This full-time, hybrid role is based in Arlington, VA, with flexibility for partial work from home. Day-to-day responsibilities include assessing network architectures for emerging programs, reviewing technical proposals, advising on network security and resilience, and identifying risks and mitigation strategies for complex, mission-critical infrastructures. The role involves monitoring operational performance, troubleshooting issues in collaboration with performers and stakeholders, and contributing to test plans, experiments, and demonstrations. The SETA also prepares technical documentation and briefings, supports program reviews, and helps ensure that network engineering and operations align with DARPA’s strategic goals and rigorous security standards.

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess strong networking and network administration skills, including experience managing routers, switches, and complex IP-based infrastructures.
• Candidates should possess expertise in troubleshooting and network operations, with the ability to diagnose performance issues and implement effective resolutions in high-stakes environments.
• Candidates should possess solid network design experience, including planning scalable, resilient architectures and integrating emerging technologies into existing systems.
• Candidates should possess knowledge of network security principles and practices, such as secure configuration, monitoring, and incident response for classified or sensitive networks.
• Relevant experience in systems engineering, network performance analysis, and technical advisory or SETA-type roles is highly beneficial.
• A bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, information systems, or a related technical field is preferred; advanced degrees are a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear technical reports and brief senior stakeholders, are essential.
• Experience with federal or defense environments, familiarity with DoD network standards, and the ability to obtain and maintain an appropriate security clearance are advantageous.