> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1551031-systems-network-architect](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1551031-systems-network-architect). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Systems/Network Architect - **Company:** UICGS and Bowhead Family of Companies - **Location:** Dahlgren, VA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $115,000.0 - $150,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Microsoft Access, Amazon Web Services, Border Gateway Protocol, Catalyst (Software), Cloud Computing, Network Topologies, Network Security, Network Architecture, Routing, Network Segmentation, Network Administration, Zero Trust Network Access, Systems Integration, Identity Services Engine, QRadar, Wireless Devices, Firewall Services Module, Open Network Automation Platform, Splunk, Cisco Switches, Cisco, Vmware - **Published:** July 9, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9020564/systemsnetwork-architect ## About the Role * Eight or more (8+) years of experience in network engineering, IT, or other related fields preferred * Must have strong troubleshooting and critical thinking skills * Strong attention to detail, good documentation skills, ability to write clear, concise project reports * Ability to function with minimal instruction or supervision, or as a part of larger team reporting to formal project management * Must have a DoD 8570 Compliance (e.g., CompTIA CASP+ or Security+) required * Must have a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or higher Cisco certification required * Must obtain Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) within 12 months of hire date. * Preferred VMware Certified Professional (VCP), AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, ITIL v4. Targeted salary range is $115,000 annually to $150,000 annually based on qualifications and experience. Physical Demands: * Must be able to lift up to 10-15 pounds * Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time * Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Must currently hold a security clearance at the Top Secret level. US Citizenship is a requirement for this contract. ## Description Bowhead is seeking a highly skilled and cleared Systems/Network Architect to support our RDT&E (Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation) contract in Dahlgren, VA. The ideal candidate will be instrumental in the design, implementation, and management of robust network topologies, with a strong focus on modern network automation and security frameworks. This role requires deep expertise in Cisco architectures, enterprise-scale network management, and next-generation security implementations., Core Responsibilities: * Analyze, design, and develop network architectures, including hardware/software identification, performance analysis, and network modifications. * Manage complex routing and switching environments, including inner router configurations, BGP, route leaking, and VRF builds. * Automate the provisioning of new switches and troubleshoot LAN automation issues. * Assist in the configuration and troubleshooting of VMware NSX firewall policies and virtual routing. * Identify connectivity issues spanning copper wiring, fiber path analysis, optical transceivers, and wireless devices. * Install, maintain, and secure network devices across multiple separated network environments. * Monitor system logs (using tools like Splunk or QRadar) to ensure optimal operating environments and proactive threat hunting. * Manage and upgrade environmental monitoring systems (e.g., APC StruxureWare) across multiple facility locations. * Collaborate closely with cross-functional RDT&E teams to resolve customer issues efficiently. This position requires specialized knowledge and hands-on experience in the following strategic domains: * Cisco Catalyst Center (C2C): Lead the deployment, management, and assurance of network infrastructure using Catalyst Center (formerly DNA Center) for automated LAN deployments, lab building, and ongoing network telemetry. * Zero Trust (ZT) Architecture: Drive the organization's Zero Trust security model by implementing strict access controls, micro-segmentation, and continuous monitoring to ensure secure connectivity across all endpoints and environments. * Cisco ISE (Identity Services Engine): Architect and manage Cisco ISE deployments. Responsible for creating identity groups, configuring authorization profiles, integrating with external identity stores, and maintaining server software to support seamless Zero Trust Network Access. * Software-Defined Access (SDA): Support the rollout and administration of SDA fabrics across classified and unclassified networks to streamline network provisioning and enforce security policies. ## Related Videos - [How Cisco embraced a DevOps culture within its network engineering team](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/99-how-cisco-embraced-a-devops-culture-within-its-network-engineering-team) - [Our journey with Spring Boot in a microservice architecture](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/511-our-journey-with-spring-boot-in-a-microservice-architecture) - [WebAssembly: The Next Frontier of Cloud Computing](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/972-webassembly-the-next-frontier-of-cloud-computing) - [What makes Cybersecurity different for critical infrastructure?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/571-what-makes-cybersecurity-different-for-critical-infrastructure) - [Generating code with Angular schematics](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/129-generating-code-with-angular-schematics) - [Computer Vision from the Edge to the Cloud done easy](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/263-computer-vision-from-the-edge-to-the-cloud-done-easy) ## Related Articles - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Best Paying Jobs in Technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/256-best-paying-jobs-in-technology) - [What Are The Top Skills Required For Azure Developers?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/77-what-are-the-top-skills-required-for-azure-developers) - [Top-Paying Tech Jobs (with Salaries)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/372-top-paying-tech-jobs-with-salaries) - [The Most Popular IT Jobs on the Market](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/376-the-most-popular-it-jobs-on-the-market) - [The 12 Best Jobs for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/401-the-12-best-jobs-for-software-engineers)