> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3533316-network-engineer-senior-expert-sme](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3533316-network-engineer-senior-expert-sme). 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). --- # Network Engineer (Senior / Expert / SME) - **Company:** Insight Xcite - **Location:** Herndon, VA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $175,000.0 - $220,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** VoIP, Cisco IOS, Cloud Computing, Configuration Management, Cyber Security, Computer Networks, Linux, Networking Hardware, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Routing, Network Virtualization, TCP/IP, Virtualization Technology, Wide Area Networks, Network Routers, Firewalls (Computer Science), Juniper, Palo Alto Networks, Firewall Services Module, Cisco, Citrix Netscaler - **Published:** October 2, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9025997/network-engineer-senior-expert-sme ## About the Role Expert roles require at least 11 years of relevant network engineering experience and firewall engineering involving Cisco, Palo Alto, and NetScaler. SME roles require at least 16 years and expertise with Cisco, Palo Alto, and Juniper firewall solutions. Work includes firewall policies, configuration, maintenance, troubleshooting, threat monitoring, and translating customer requirements into enterprise solutions. Degrees are preferred for these tracks. Cloud/hybrid networking, management platforms such as Cisco FTD and Palo Alto Panorama, and relevant certifications are preferred. Network Engineer (Expert and SME) - Cloud / Linux Networking, Sterling Expert roles require at least 11 years; SME roles require at least 16 years. Required experience includes commercial cloud VPCs with Linux VMs used as network appliances, Linux and network-device hardening, firewalls/switches/routers/IPS, commercial VPNs, commercial messaging applications, and Android devices. After-hours and weekend call-in support is part of the requirement. Bachelor's or Master's degrees are preferred. Network Engineer (Senior) - Enterprise Networking, Sterling Required: at least 6 years of relevant experience and a Bachelor's degree; TCP/IP network design, routing protocols, advanced virtual networking, network upgrades/O&M, INFOSEC/COMSEC, configuration management, troubleshooting LAN/WAN/VPN/SD-WAN/VoIP, and Cisco IOS switching and routing. Cloud, virtualization, SecDevOps, and Cisco certifications are preferred. Clearance Requirement Due to the nature of our work, Insight Xcite does not sponsor or process security clearances at this time. Applicants must currently possess an active TS/SCI with Full-Scope Polygraph (FSP) to be considered for employment. ## 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) - [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker) - [WeAreDevelopers LIVE - Playing in Production](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100363-wearedevelopers-live-playing-in-production) - [Getting under the skin: The Social Engineering techniques](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/38-getting-under-the-skin-the-social-engineering-techniques) - [Your Infrastructure Is Not a Playground: AI Agents for Infra Done Right](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2084-your-infrastructure-is-not-a-playground-ai-agents-for-infra-done-right) - [What makes Cybersecurity different for critical infrastructure?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/571-what-makes-cybersecurity-different-for-critical-infrastructure) ## Related Articles - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [What’s the Difference between a Junior, Mid, and Senior Developer?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/238-what-s-the-difference-between-a-junior-mid-and-senior-developer) - [Best Paying Jobs in Technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/256-best-paying-jobs-in-technology) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs) - [Where to Find Entry-Level Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/397-where-to-find-entry-level-software-engineering-jobs) - [The Most Popular IT Jobs on the Market](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/376-the-most-popular-it-jobs-on-the-market)