Federal Network Support Engineer (Tier 1.5)

Intermediate Federal Network Support Engineer to provide intermediate-level technical infrastructure and software services support for the Azure Core Networking team within Government Cloud environments. This role bridges Tier 1 operational support with Tier 2 specialized technical expertise, supporting 24x7 operations (shift work) for critical networking infrastructure across secure federal facilities including PhysNet, FPN, ExpressRoute, VPN, and advanced network services., Advanced Operational Support

• Lead triage and mitigation of moderate complexity Livesite incidents, customer-reported incidents, and deployment incidents
• Perform optical SPAN monitoring and mitigations for network performance optimization
• Support WAN incidents and coordinate resolution activities
• Execute end-to-end deployment of Microsoft ExpressRoute devices for specific sites, including onboarding to GWM
• Validate and troubleshoot buildout configurations before production deployment
• Support PulseVPN and Webportal implementations for Fairfax environments
• Coordinate HWProxy and Scripting Framework work supports for AZN Systems

Technical Problem-Solving

• Conduct root cause analysis on recurring incidents and develop preventive measures
• Issue Letters of Authorization (LOAs) and perform operational readiness tests with Microsoft partners
• Support Decom activities including networking decom for federal cloud environments
• Provide technical guidance to Tier 1 engineers during complex incidents
• Contribute advanced troubleshooting guides and technical documentation to knowledge base

Collaboration & Escalation Management

• Serve as primary escalation point for Tier 1 support teams
• Coordinate with Microsoft partners (ATT, BT, Verizon, Equinix, etc.) on capacity planning and onboarding
• Manage end-to-end contract sign-off process for new Microsoft Partners
• Escalate highly complex or specialized issues to Tier 2 with comprehensive documentation
• Participate in post-incident reviews and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives

• Associates Degree or equivalent relevant experience; Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or a related field preferred.
• 4+ years of experience in network operations or technical support
• 1-2 years of leadership experience

Security Requirements

• Active Secret level clearance
• Able to obtain CJIS background check

Required Certifications (One or more)

• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Security+
• Azure AZ-900, * Microsoft Azure certifications (Azure Network Engineer Associate or equivalent)
• Experience with federal government cloud environments
• Cisco CCNP or equivalent networking certification
• Prior experience in managed service provider (MSP) or cloud operations environment

Primary Job Specific Skills

• Understanding of enterprise networking concepts including routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), MPLS, VPN technologies
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Azure networking services (ExpressRoute, VPN Gateway, Virtual WAN)
• Experience with network monitoring tools and SPAN/packet capture analysis
• Experience with ticketing systems and incident management processes
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently in a 24x7 operational environment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to documentation standards
• Customer service orientation with ability to manage multiple priorities
• Familiarity with network automation concepts and scripting (PowerShell, Python) preferred

Other Job Skills

• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Operating Systems and products that include Microsoft Windows, Windows Servers, Microsoft Office365 and SharePoint, Microsoft Teams.
• Applies standard methodology, techniques, procedures and criteria.
• Ability to analyze, troubleshoot and resolve intermediate level system hardware, software or networking related problems.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing and to translate technical terminology into terms understandable to non-technical employees.
• Exceptional customer service skills.
• Experience preferred with cloud infrastructure, digital workspace, and storage technology

Salary Range: $111,000-$116,000 (Compensation is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, work experience, skills, education, certifications, seniority, and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.)

Gridiron IT is a Women Owned Small Business (WOSB) headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area that supports our clients' missions throughout the United States. Gridiron IT specializes in providing comprehensive IT services tailored to meet the needs of federal agencies. Our capabilities include IT Infrastructure & Cloud Services, Cyber Security, Software Integration & Development, Data Solution & AI, and Enterprise Applications. These capabilities are backed by Gridiron IT's experienced workforce and our commitment to ensuring we meet and exceed our clients' expectations. Pay: $111,000.00 - $116,000.00 per year