Network Engineer

Apex Systems is currently hiring a Network Engineer with one of our DoD/ Government clients. This will be a "6 months contract to hire" opportunity. You'll work 5 days onsite each week in Alexandria, VA providing mission critical services across various network domains., * Partner with stakeholders, senior leadership, and cross-functional teams to design and architect scalable and secure voice, video, wireless, and data communication networks.

• Lead the development of high-level and low-level network designs and collaborate with teams to deploy and integrate enterprise and data center solutions.
• Operate in a fast-paced environment, acting as a technical advisor and translating complex requirements into actionable strategies and architectures.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement performance, reliability, and security improvements.
• Utilize advanced routing and switching technologies and automation tools to optimize and modernize enterprise and data center network environments.

• Active TS/SCI clearance or Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility
• Bachelor's Degree
• Active Security+ Certification
• Expertise in routing and switching protocols such as BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP.
• Experience with LAN/WAN architecture, design, and deployment.
• Proficiency with network monitoring and performance tools (e.g., SolarWinds, NetFlow, Wireshark).
• Hands-on experience with firewalls, VPNs, QoS, and load balancers.
• Strong background working with Cisco platforms including Catalyst, Nexus, and ACI.

An opportunity is available for a Network Engineer Sr Principal to support mission-critical national security, defense operations, and infrastructure protection activities. In this role, you will contribute to challenging projects and design, secure, and maintain resilient network architectures. This work enables uninterrupted communication, real-time data sharing, and system availability for government customers in dynamic environments., Education: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Experience: 10+ years of related network engineering experience.

Technical Skills:

• Expertise in routing and switching protocols such as BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP.
• Experience with LAN/WAN architecture, design, and deployment.
• Proficiency with network monitoring and performance tools such as SolarWinds, NetFlow, and Wireshark.
• Hands-on experience with firewalls, VPNs, QoS, and load balancers.
• Strong background with Cisco platforms including Catalyst, Nexus, and ACI.

Abilities:

• Communication and presentation skills, including the ability to explain complex technical concepts.

• Ability to engage with senior leadership and influence technical and strategic decisions.

• Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills in large, complex network environments.

• Ability to collaborate across multiple technical disciplines and operate effectively under pressure while managing competing priorities. Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SDN and Cisco solutions such as Catalyst Center, ISE, and Intersight.

• Cloud networking experience with platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP.

• Network automation using Python, REST APIs, Ansible, and Terraform.

• Knowledge of Zero Trust principles and network security best practices.

• Familiarity with data center technologies including VXLAN, EVPN, and ACI.

PLEASE NOTE: Candidates must be able to obtain and/or maintain a Department of Defense TS/SCI security clearance as a condition and continuation of employment*

Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Apex team member can provide.

At Apex Systems, we are proud to support those who serve. Our commitment to the military community is reflected in our robust veteran hiring initiatives, military-friendly workplace policies, and nationally recognized programs. We value the leadership, discipline, and mission-first mindset that military professionals bring to our team. Join us in continuing your mission. Why Apex is a Top Choice for Veterans and Military Talent: * Military-Friendly Employer: Recognized as a Military Friendly® Employer for multiple consecutive years. * Transition Programs: DoD Skill Bridge program with multiple pathway options. * Veteran Hiring Commitment: We actively partner with multiple veteran and military organizations that specialize in IT upskilling and certification training, helping service members and veterans transition into high-demand tech careers * Apex Military Network: Internal employee resource group supporting veterans, Guard/Reserve members, and their families., Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing® in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work® in the United Kingdom and Mexico.