Network Engineer- SME

• Design, implement, and manage firewall solutions utilizing Cisco, Pala Alto, and Juniper network devices
• Perform configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of firewall policies and rules
• Monitor network traffic for potential security threats and proactively address vulnerabilities
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure network security standards align with business objectives
• Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices in network security and firewall technologies
• Ability to translate customer requirements into enterprise network solutions, * Network Infrastructure SME
• Senior Network Consultant
• Network Solutions Expert
• Principal Network Specialist
• Lead Network Engineer

Keywords:

• Network Design & Optimization
• Cisco Technologies
• BGP/OSPF/EIGRP Protocols
• Enterprise Network Security
• Infrastructure Automation

• Proven experience as a Network Engineer with a focus on firewall technologies
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Network Engineer - SME Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:

• Minimum of 16 years’ experience.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degrees are preferred in one or more of the disciplines described below where specific skills may include the following:
• Strong proficiency with Palo Alto & CISCO firewall platforms, Palo Alto firewall platforms is a plus
• In-depth knowledge of network protocols, TCP/IP stack, and OSI model
• Experience with firewall management software such as Cisco FTD and Palo Alto Panorama
• Experience with a wide variety of network technologies and solutions architectures is a plus
• Broad understanding of technical principles, theories and concepts in the networking field
• Knowledge of state-of-the-art systems engineering principles and network design concepts
• Cloud Service Provider and hybrid cloud experience (extending on-premise networks to cloud providers such as AWS, Azure, Oracle and Google)
• Strong proficiency with Palo Alto and Cisco firewall platforms is a plus
• Industry certifications such as CCNA Security, CCNP Security, Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE), or similar industry certifications are preferred
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

401(k) United States, Virginia, Chantilly 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center (Show on map) Aug 17, 2026

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Network Engineer - SME: 200k

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Cherokee Preting (Preting) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government’s mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about Preting, visit cherokee-federal.com.