Network Infrastructure Architect

This is a 12-month contract (with option for renewal) and is hybrid (1-2 days in office) to downtown Atlanta. No C2C candidates will be considered.

We are seeking an experienced Network Infrastructure Architect to design, lead implementation of, and support enterprise network infrastructure statewide, as well as cloud-based services. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in network architecture, wireless technologies, circuits, VLANs, firewalls, and network security solutions. While most hands-on configuration will be performed by vendors, this role requires a technical leader who direct the hands-on efforts, can effectively manage vendor relationships, challenge recommendations when necessary, and ensure the organization's network infrastructure aligns with business and security requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, lead implementation of, and maintain enterprise-wide network architecture supporting multiple sites and facilities.
• Lead the planning and deployment of LAN, WAN, wireless, SD-WAN, and cloud-connected network solutions.
• Design and manage network segmentation strategies, including VLAN architecture and routing protocols.
• Support and optimize network circuits, carrier services, and connectivity across multiple locations.
• Serve as a primary technical liaison with telecommunications providers, including AT&T and other vendors.
• Evaluate vendor recommendations and push back when necessary to ensure cost-effective and technically sound solutions.
• Architect, configure, and support enterprise firewall environments and network security controls.
• Design and support wireless network solutions, including enterprise Wi-Fi deployments and optimization.
• Lead network security initiatives, vulnerability remediation, and compliance efforts.
• Develop network standards, documentation, diagrams, and operational procedures.
• Collaborate with infrastructure, security, cloud, and application resources on enterprise technology initiatives.
• Troubleshoot complex network and security issues and provide architectural guidance for remediation.
• Participate in capacity planning, disaster recovery, and business continuity initiatives.
• Advise leadership on infrastructure decisions, risks, and tradeoffs.
• Develop and present architectural recommendations and project status in clear, non-technical terms.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of enterprise network architecture experience
• Strong experience supporting multi-site enterprise environments
• Extensive knowledge of:
• Wireless technologies, including enterprise-scale deployments
• WAN/LAN infrastructure
• Circuit provisioning and carrier services
• VLAN design and network segmentation including application-based
• Experience with cloud networking platforms such as AWS or Azure.
• Hands-on experience with Meraki networking solutions
• Strong expertise with:
• Next-Generation Firewalls
• Network Access Control
• VPN Technologies
• Experience implementing network security solutions that manage or block application traffic through both:
• Layer 7 Application Firewalls
• Traditional Network Firewalls utilizing IP and port-based controls
• Experience working directly with telecommunications carriers, particularly AT&T.
• Proven ability to influence vendors and challenge technical recommendations when appropriate.
• Excellent executive verbal and written communication skills, including ability to advise leadership on complex technical topics.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Network Engineering, or related field.
• Industry certifications such as:
• Cisco CCNP or CCIE
• Meraki Certification
• CISSP
• Experience with state or local government technology organizations.

Work Environment

• Hybrid work schedule with one day per week onsite in Atlanta, GA.
• Support and occasional travel to multiple agency facilities may be required.
• Ability to participate in planned maintenance activities outside normal business hours as needed.