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# Principal Network Engineer

- **Company:** Job Owl
- **Location:** Fort Meade, MD, United States
- **Salary:** $170,000.0 - $200,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Systems Engineering, VoIP, Cyber Security, Linux, Networking Hardware, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Architecture, Network Installation Services, Network Monitoring, Network Routers, Computer Networking Systems, Computer Network Technologies, Firewalls (Computer Science), Information Technology, Cisco
- **Published:** August 11, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=e9ba6f43946c12a9

## About the Role

* Education
 + Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or related field preferred

 * Experience
 + 15+ years of relevant networking or systems engineering experience.
 + Experience with Cisco Call Managers, Cisco Session Border Controllers, routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, Linux systems, and cybersecurity best practices.
 + Excellent communication skills and ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
 * Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
 + Experienced with Cisco Call Managers, Cisco Session Border Controllers, routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, Linux systems, and cybersecurity best practices.
 + Excellent communication skills and ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
 + Expert-level understanding of network architecture, cybersecurity, and enterprise communications systems.
 + Ability to lead advanced technical initiatives and provide strategic network guidance.
 + Strong analytical and problem-solving skills related to network performance, scalability, and security.
 * Additional Competencies/Requirements
 + Cisco CCNP (required)
 + Security+ (required)
 + Cisco CCNA OR CCNP Collaboration (required)
 + Linux+ (required)
 + Candidates must be able to travel up to 25%
 + Candidates must have an active TS/SCI security clearance

## Description

The Principal Network Engineer leads the design, optimization, and evaluation of complex Voice over IP (VoIP), network systems and communication infrastructure while resolving the organization's most advanced network and security challenges. This role conducts research and analysis on emerging technologies, network performance, and security risks, and serves as a technical leader on highly complex projects requiring advanced industry expertise and independent decision-making., * Support network implementation including installation, testing, deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network hardware and software.

 * Support VoIP implementation including installation, testing, deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of hardware and software.
 * Configure and support routers, switches, firewalls, and related network technologies.
 * Monitor network performance and troubleshoot connectivity and security issues.
 * Support security hardening and implementation of cybersecurity best practices.
 * Create and maintain technical documentation, diagrams, and installation guides.


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