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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Network Engineer - **Company:** Axient Llc - **Location:** Columbia, SC, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $145,000.0 - $165,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Microsoft Azure, Border Gateway Protocol, Cloud Computing, Complex Networks, CompTIA Security+, Cyber Security, Information Systems, Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol, Internet Security, Internetworking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Multi-protocol Systems, Information Systems Security Architecture Professional, Python (Programming Language), Network Security, Log Analysis, NetFlow, Network Architecture, Network Planning and Design, Routing, Network Administration, NIPRNet, Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), Ansible, Zero Trust Network Access, Security Information and Event Management, Virtual Local Area Networks, Software Vulnerability Management, Network Switches, Network Routing, Information Technology, Fortinet, Routing & Switching, Open Network Automation Platform, Cisco - **Published:** August 8, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.careerbuilder.com/job-details/sr-network-engineer-columbia-md--decca2f9-7cc2-4a17-8277-dd27450f5256 ## About the Role Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a highly experienced Senior Network Engineer to design, implement, secure, and maintain mission-critical network infrastructures supporting Department of Defense/Department of War (DoD/DoW) environments. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in Cisco and Fortinet technologies, extensive experience operating within classified networks, and a proven track record of implementing and maintaining systems in compliance with Risk Management Framework (RMF), DoD STIG and Cross Domain / Comply-to-Connect (C2C) requirements., * Active Top Secret security clearance. * TS/SCI preferred * Bachelor's degree in Network Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience) * 8+ years of experience in network engineering within Department of Defense/Department of War (DoD/DoW) or classified environments * Deep expertise in: * Cisco routing & switching (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, MPLS) * Fortinet solutions (FortiGate, FortiOS, VPNs, security fabric) * Demonstrated experience implementing and maintaining DISA STIG compliance * Hands-on experience with C2C / Cross Domain architectures and security controls * Strong understanding of: * RMF (Risk Management Framework) * DISA security requirements and accreditation processes * DCSA Accreditation Standards * Active DoD 8140 (formerly DoD 8570) compliant industry certification (e.g., Security+ CE, CISSP, etc.) * Active DoD 8140 (formerly DoD 8570) compliant environment certification (e.g., minimum Cisco CCNP) * Experience with C2C Requirements: * Network automation (Python, Ansible) * Zero Trust architectures * SIEM integration and log analysis * NetFlow monitoring KEY COMPETENCIES * Advanced network design and troubleshooting * Security hardening and compliance enforcement * Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities * Excellent communication and documentation skills * Ability to operate in high-security, mission-critical environments, * CCIE (Enterprise or Security) * Fortinet NSE 4-7 certifications * Project Management Experience * Experience briefing Executive Leadership * Prior experience supporting Cross Domain Solutions (CDS) programs * Experience with cloud-based DoD environments (e.g., Azure Government, Azure Secret), 802.1, Analysis Skills, CCIE - Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, CCNP - Cisco Certified Network Professional, CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional, Cisco Network Systems, Cloud Computing, Communication Skills, CompTIA Security+, Computer Science, Computer Security, Cross-Domain Solutions (CDS), Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), DoD Directive 8140, DoD Directive 8570, Documentation, Enterprise Protection, Government, Internet Security, Leadership, Maintain Compliance, Microsoft Windows Azure, Network Administration/Management, Network Architecture/Engineering, Network Design, Network Routing, Network Security, Network Switching, Operations Security (OPSEC), Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Project/Program Management, Risk Management Framework (RMF), Security Compliance, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Systems Engineering, Systems Maintenance, United States Department of Defense (DoD), VPN (Virtual Private Network), Willing to Travel ## Description * Design, implement, and maintain secure network architectures using Cisco (routing/switching, ISE) and Fortinet (FortiGate) solutions * Design, implement, and maintain 802.1x compliance platform * Engineer and support classified and unclassified network environments (e.g., MDA CNET, NIPR, SIPR, JWICS as applicable) * Ensure compliance with DoD Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and cybersecurity policies * Implement and maintain Cross Domain Solutions (CDS) and Comply-to-Connect (C2C) architectures * Perform network hardening, vulnerability remediation, and continuous monitoring in accordance with RMF controls * Develop and maintain network documentation, diagrams, SOPs, and security artifacts * Support Authority to Operate (ATO) processes, including STIG checklists, POA&Ms, and risk assessments * Troubleshoot complex network and security issues across multi-vendor environments * Collaborate with cybersecurity, systems engineering, and mission stakeholders to ensure secure, reliable operations * Support audits, inspections, and compliance validation activities ## Related Videos - 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