Network Engineer SME

SMS is seeking a Senior Technical Subject Matter Specialist to provide high-level technical expertise, strategic guidance, and Tier 3 engineering support for the Air Force National Capital Region (AFNCR) IT infrastructure and communications networks. This role will provide 24/7/365 mission-critical support for the AFNCR IT Services network environment and serves as a principal technical authority, bridging complex mission requirements with advanced enterprise IT solutions. The ideal candidate will optimize network performance, oversee systems integration, enforce cybersecurity compliance, and provide technical leadership across multi-platform military environments, * Enterprise Technical Leadership: Serve as the primary technical advisor for AFNCR enterprise infrastructure, guiding software, hardware, and network virtualization strategies.

• Tier 3 Engineering Support: Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve highly complex hardware, software, and network performance anomalies affecting critical mission capabilities.
• Infrastructure Optimization: Design, implement, and maintain advanced virtualization environments (e.g., VMware, Nutanix) and server infrastructures across NIPRNet and SIPRNet.
• Cybersecurity & Compliance: Ensure all systems and network configurations adhere strictly to DISA STIGs, NIST SP 800-171, and Risk Management Framework (RMF) requirements.
• Strategic Modernization: Collaborate with program managers, engineers, and government leadership to develop technology roadmaps, capability assessments, and engineering documentation.
• Operations Supervision: Provide technical oversight and mentorship to multi-shift operations and production support teams executing network facilities management.

• Active Top Secret clearance required
• Minimum of 10+ years of progressive technical experience supporting DoD IT infrastructure, enterprise networks, or cyberspace operations.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related STEM discipline (equivalent military experience may be considered).
• Technical Expertise: Deep working knowledge of virtualization technologies (Nutanix AOS/AHV, VMware), Windows/Linux Server environments, and core networking fundamentals (VLANs, firewalls, micro-segmentation).
• Proven experience operating within the U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, or Joint Base environments strongly preferred.
• Communication: Exceptional ability to synthesize complex technical data into concise briefings, technical manuals, and white papers for senior military leaders.

Required Certifications

• DoD 8570/8140 Baseline: Must hold a current IAT Level II or III certification (e.g., Security+ CE, CISSP, CASP+CE)
• CCNA required

Desired Certifications:

• CCNP
• Nutanix NCP/NCM
• VCP (VMware Certified Professional)
• Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS).

Since 1976, SMS has specialized in modernizing legacy IT and sustaining complex enterprise environments for federal agencies. With the goal of building long-term partnerships with our customers, we invest in our employees by providing the training, tools, and support they need to keep critical missions operational, improve performance, and reduce risk. SMS is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, with offices and on-site operations at customer locations throughout the United States. For additional information on SMS, visit www.sms.com .