Network Architect

Type of Requisition: Pipeline Clearance Level Must Currently Possess: Top Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Top Secret Public Trust/Other Required: None Job Family: IT Infrastructure and Operations Job Qualifications: Skills: Collaboration, Enterprise IT, System Security Certifications: None Experience: 10 + years of related experience US Citizenship Required: Yes Job Description: The Network Architect will lead the technical design and implementation of large‑scale, global network operations and modernization contract supporting the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Technologies (DT) . This role oversees 24x7 worldwide network operations, modernization activities, security integration, service management, and customer engagement across all geographic regions. WHAT YOU’LL DO: Collaborate with DT and Program Director on defining outputs, outcomes, and adoption framework for project creation and implementation Leading team providing steady-state support for current environment network operations, preparing for a modernization journey Define and evolve the enterprise architecture, strategy, and roadmap for network capabilities, aligning solutions with business, technology, and cybersecurity objectives Design secure, scalable, and automated and AI-augmented solutions for provisioning, monitoring, and operational support Establish governance frameworks, lifecycle controls, and operational standards for hardware, process, and procedure. Develop architecture artifacts, implementation guidance, metrics, and telemetry driven reporting that promote consistency, automation, resiliency, and operational excellence. Serve a trusted advisor, technical leader, and mentor across the program, collaborating with other senior technical leaders and mid- to junior-career staff REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:   Active TS/SCI clearance Bachelor’s Degree in a related technical discipline Minimum of 10 years’ technical experience  Aligned Cisco Certified Internetwork (CCIE) certifications Security+ or DoD 8570 IAT Level II Certification Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Demonstrated experience with the technical leadership of large and/or complex network modernization efforts   Demonstrated experience with designing and implementing network solutions incorporating load balancing, route, switch, firewalls, congestion and prioritization management, and micro segmentation. Deep understanding of and previous experience with Zero Trust Architecture, NIST frameworks, and other government standards and compliance frameworks. Deep understanding of Software-Defined Networking (SDN), SD-WAN, container networking, virtualization platforms, and other cloud focused network technologies. Previous experience with one or more industry leading vendors such as Cisco, Palo Alto, Fortinet, Juniper, HPE, Avaya, or similar. Previous experience with enterprise WiFi design and implementations, including mesh solutions. Previous experience with Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and/or Google Cloud Platform (GCP) Experience integrating workflows and automation solutions with ITSM platforms such as ServiceNow  Experience with DevOps, Infrastructure as Code (IaC, Python, Git, and/or other applicable technologies PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :  Experience working within a government enterprise environment   Demonstrated understanding of Natural Language Processing (NLP) implementation and concepts of intent-based architecture Previous experience with low bandwidth, high latency locations and solutions Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) or similar vendor certification. One or more of the following Microsoft certifications: Microsoft Cybersecurity Architect Expert (SC-100), Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104), Microsoft Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305), Microsoft AI-centric professional certifications or Applied Skills AWS Certified Advanced Networking and/or AWS Certified Security Technical certifications from other industry leaders in the network or security segment Project Management Professional (PMP) GDIT IS YOUR PLACE At GDIT, the mission is our purpose, and our people are at the center of everything we do. ● Growth: AI-powered career tool that identifies career steps and learning opportunities ● Support: An internal mobility team focused on helping you achieve your career goals ● Rewards: Comprehensive benefits and wellness packages, 401K with company match, and competitive pay and paid time off ● Community: Award-winning culture of innovation and a military-friendly workplace OWN YOUR OPPORTUNITY Explore an enterprise IT career at GDIT and you’ll find endless opportunities to grow alongside colleagues who share your desire to drive operations forward. The likely salary range for this position is $169,604 - $229,464. This is not, however, a guarantee of compensation or salary. Rather, salary will be set based on experience, geographic location and possibly contractual requirements and could fall outside of this range. Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 Travel Required: Less than 10% T elecommuting Options: Onsite Work Location: USA DC Washington Additional Work Locations: Total Rewards at GDIT: Our benefits package for all US-based employees includes a variety of medical plan options, some with Health Savings Accounts, dental plan options, a vision plan, and a 401(k) plan offering the ability to contribute both pre and post-tax dollars up to the IRS annual limits and receive a company match. To encourage work/life balance, GDIT offers employees full flex work weeks where possible and a variety of paid time off plans, including vacation, sick and personal time, holidays, paid parental, military, bereavement and jury duty leave. To ensure our employees are able to protect their income, other offerings such as short and long-term disability benefits, life, accidental death and dismem