Network Architect - Hybrid

Our client, an IT Services organization supporting commercial and federal clients is seeking a Network Architect responsible for the overall design, architecture, and technical direction of the modernized Cisco-based WAN/LAN/WLAN infrastructure. This role requires a strategic leader who can translate business, judicial, and compliance requirements into a secure, scalable, and resilient network architecture that integrates with external agencies and cloud services. The initial contract is for 6 months with the potential to extend based on job performance and business needs. The selected Network Architect will be required to work onsite 2 days per week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) at the client's facility in East Hartford, CT. Key Responsibilities: - Define the overall network architecture strategy and roadmap for statewide Cisco-based infrastructure modernization. - Design WAN, LAN, and wireless solutions that meet performance, security, and scalability requirements. - Develop high-level and detailed network design documentation, including topology diagrams, configurations, and implementation standards. - Ensure secure integration with state, local, and federal agencies as well as cloud environments. - Collaborate with project managers, cybersecurity analysts, and engineering teams to align designs with compliance (CJIS, NIST, etc.) and judicial branch requirements. - Evaluate new networking technologies and solutions to enhance resiliency, performance, and security. - Provide guidance on disaster recovery, business continuity, and high-availability network design. - Oversee network capacity planning, performance monitoring strategies, and optimization. - Serve as the senior technical authority for escalations during design, testing, and deployment. - Guide the customer's engineering staff on best practices and design principles. Required Skills Required Qualifications: - Must be a US Citizen due to the nature of the role - 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in network engineering and architecture. - Deep expertise with Cisco networking technologies: routing, switching, wireless, firewalls, VPN, and network security solutions. - Proven experience designing large-scale, multi-site WAN/LAN/WLAN infrastructures. - Knowledge of hybrid/cloud connectivity and secure integration with third-party agencies. - Strong understanding of network security standards and compliance requirements (NIST, CJIS, CIS Controls). - Experience in highly regulated or government/public sector environments. - Excellent documentation, presentation, and stakeholder communication skills. Preferred Qualifications: - Relevant certifications: CCNP/CCIE, Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE), or equivalent. - Experience supporting judicial, law enforcement, or public sector networks. - Familiarity with SD-WAN, network segmentation, and Zero Trust architectures. - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.