Network Architect SME

Job Overview

Trace Systems is seeking a cleared Network Architect SME to provide expert level technical support regarding the design, configuration, implementation, operational management and troubleshooting of the Enterprise Network on-site in Stuttgart, Germany.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain highly reliable and scalable network systems.
• Configure and maintain complex enterprise routing and switching environments utilizing standard protocols and advanced transport methods (DMVPN, MPLS Segment‐Routing).
• Manage and troubleshoot datacenter network fabrics using Cisco ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure) and Cisco Nexus switching platforms.
• Deploy, manage, and update Palo Alto and Cisco Firepower firewalls, including centralized management platforms (Panorama, FMC).
• Administer Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) for secure endpoint access, policy enforcement, and Zero Trust architecture support.
• Provision, key, and maintain KG encryptors (e.g., TACLANE) to secure classified and mission‐critical traffic.
• Develop automation frameworks and leverage network automation tools (Ansible, Python, REST APIs) to streamline deployments and support Software‐Defined Access (SDA).
• Maintain core network services including F5 load balancers and Infoblox for DNS, DHCP, and IPAM.
• Proactively identify and resolve performance bottlenecks and single points of failure.
• Create a roadmap for maturing DevOps practices and drive adoption of Infrastructure as Code (Ansible).
• Gather and analyze metrics for performance tuning, fault discovery, and after‐action reporting.
• Work with operations teams to build automation use‐cases and improve reliability through rigorous testing and release procedures.
• BlackCore networks running MPLS, L3VPN, L2VPN, MP‐BGP, OSPF, IS‐IS.
• Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) solutions.
• Nexus 5K, 7K, and 9K data center switches operating in ACI & NX‐OS Mode.
• Distributed Multicast architectures.
• Cisco Data Center environments utilizing ACI & HCI deployment models.
• Cisco ASA Firewalls, FirePOWER, and FTD.
• F5 Load‐Balancers.
• VMware ESXi & NSX.
• Provide network engineering support for core infrastructure spanning multiple continents in the AFRICOM AOR utilizing diverse transport.
• Maintain industry best practices and standards for installation, configuration and support of local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN) for internet systems or a segment of a network system.
• Provide technical and escalation support to include troubleshooting and break/fix actions.
• Understand broad client requirements and translate them into documented engineering requirements.
• Execute high client initiatives and guide deployment of innovative solutions using the latest technologies to support the warfighte.
• Develop new strategic initiatives and customer relationships while continuing to enhance preexisting initiatives and relationships.
• Consolidate, project, and grow pre‐existing efforts.
• Proactively arrange technology engagements with clients and align trace technology solutions to integrate.
• Analyze requirements, design, develop and deliver documentation deliverables of solutions lifecycle such as design, process, policy, techniques, tactics, and procedures in a timely manner.

Minimum Qualifications

• An Active, in‐scope US Government‐issued active Secret clearance, with eligibility for TS/SCI.
• US Citizenship is required.
• Fifteen (15) years of experience with Routing and Switching protocols.
• Fifteen (15) years of experience with Network Security protocols.
• Fifteen (15) years of experience with Data Center Technologies.
• Fifteen (15) years of experience with Global Enterprise Networks.
• Current IAT Level II certification (Security+ce, etc. or higher).
• CCIE Certification.
• Ability to meet TESA requirements to deploy OCONUS.

Desired Qualifications

• IAT‐III Certification (CISSP, CASP, GCIH, etc.)
• ITILv4 Foundations Certification.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree plus 3 years of recent specialized experience, OR
• Associate’s Degree plus 7 years of recent specialized experience, OR
• Major Certification plus 7 years of recent specialized experience, OR
• 11 years of recent specialized experience.

Trace Systems is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.