VC5 Consulting
Senior Cisco Network Engineer
VC5 Consulting, Houston, Texas, United States, 77246
Job Title: Senior Cisco Network Engineer
Job Summary
The Senior Cisco Network Engineer will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex Cisco network solutions to ensure reliable connectivity, security, and performance. This role requires extensive knowledge of Cisco technologies, strong troubleshooting skills, and the ability to lead and mentor junior engineers. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of enterprise networking concepts, protocols, and best practices, along with experience in working in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
Key Responsibilities
1.
Network Design & Architecture Design, configure, and deploy complex Cisco-based network solutions, including LAN, WAN, data center, wireless, and security architectures. Collaborate with stakeholders to understand network requirements, optimize network infrastructure, and ensure alignment with business objectives. 2.
Implementation & Configuration Implement and configure Cisco routers, switches, firewalls, wireless access points, and other networking devices. Lead network upgrades, migrations, and expansions to enhance performance and scalability. Ensure configurations meet security standards and best practices. 3.
Troubleshooting & Maintenance Diagnose and resolve network issues promptly to minimize downtime and disruptions. Perform root cause analysis and implement proactive measures to prevent recurring problems. Conduct regular network monitoring and performance tuning to optimize system reliability. 4.
Security Management Implement and maintain network security measures(NIST), including VPNs, firewalls, and access control lists (ACLs). Stay updated with cybersecurity trends and integrate best practices into network configurations. Collaborate with security teams to ensure regulatory compliance and address vulnerabilities. 5.
Documentation & Reporting Maintain accurate network documentation, including network diagrams, configurations, and inventory. Generate regular performance and availability reports to inform stakeholders of network health. Create technical documentation for training, knowledge sharing, and project handovers. 6.
Mentorship & Training Provide mentorship and guidance to junior network engineers and technical support teams. Conduct training sessions on Cisco technologies, network troubleshooting, and best practices. 7.
Vendor & Stakeholder Management Coordinate with third-party vendors for network equipment purchases, upgrades, and support. Act as a point of contact for network-related escalations and resolve issues in collaboration with other IT teams. Qualifications Education : Bachelors degree in computer science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience). Experience : 7+ years of experience in Cisco network engineering with advanced expertise in Cisco technologies. Certifications : Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) required; Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) preferred. Technical Skills Cisco Technologies : Advanced knowledge of Cisco routers, switches, ASA/Firepower firewalls, Nexus, Viptela, Cisco Umbrella, Cisco XDr, Cisco ISE, Cisco SCA, Secure X, Wireless LAN Controllers, Wifi 6 Other Technologies:
SolarWinds, Wireless, securing DMZ, voice and unified communications Networking Protocols : In-depth understanding of routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP), VLANs, STP, VTP, and QoS. Security : Strong knowledge of network security protocols (IPSec, VPNs, ACLs), and firewall management. Cloud Integration : Experience with hybrid cloud environments and integrating Cisco networks with cloud providers (AWS, Azure). Network Automation : Familiarity with network automation tools (Cisco DNA Center, Ansible) is a plus. Scripting : Proficiency in scripting languages (Python, Bash) for automating network tasks. Plus Skills : knowledge or experience in Fortinet technology Soft Skills Analytical Mindset : Ability to quickly diagnose and resolve complex network issues. Communication : Excellent verbal and written communication skills for documentation and interaction with stakeholders. Teamwork : Collaborative approach to working with IT and security teams. Adaptability : Ability to manage multiple projects, work independently and adapt to rapidly changing environments. Work Environment Location : Onsite/Hybrid (3 days in the office) Schedule : Full-time, may require occasional on-call availability for critical issues. #10497
Network Design & Architecture Design, configure, and deploy complex Cisco-based network solutions, including LAN, WAN, data center, wireless, and security architectures. Collaborate with stakeholders to understand network requirements, optimize network infrastructure, and ensure alignment with business objectives. 2.
Implementation & Configuration Implement and configure Cisco routers, switches, firewalls, wireless access points, and other networking devices. Lead network upgrades, migrations, and expansions to enhance performance and scalability. Ensure configurations meet security standards and best practices. 3.
Troubleshooting & Maintenance Diagnose and resolve network issues promptly to minimize downtime and disruptions. Perform root cause analysis and implement proactive measures to prevent recurring problems. Conduct regular network monitoring and performance tuning to optimize system reliability. 4.
Security Management Implement and maintain network security measures(NIST), including VPNs, firewalls, and access control lists (ACLs). Stay updated with cybersecurity trends and integrate best practices into network configurations. Collaborate with security teams to ensure regulatory compliance and address vulnerabilities. 5.
Documentation & Reporting Maintain accurate network documentation, including network diagrams, configurations, and inventory. Generate regular performance and availability reports to inform stakeholders of network health. Create technical documentation for training, knowledge sharing, and project handovers. 6.
Mentorship & Training Provide mentorship and guidance to junior network engineers and technical support teams. Conduct training sessions on Cisco technologies, network troubleshooting, and best practices. 7.
Vendor & Stakeholder Management Coordinate with third-party vendors for network equipment purchases, upgrades, and support. Act as a point of contact for network-related escalations and resolve issues in collaboration with other IT teams. Qualifications Education : Bachelors degree in computer science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience). Experience : 7+ years of experience in Cisco network engineering with advanced expertise in Cisco technologies. Certifications : Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) required; Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) preferred. Technical Skills Cisco Technologies : Advanced knowledge of Cisco routers, switches, ASA/Firepower firewalls, Nexus, Viptela, Cisco Umbrella, Cisco XDr, Cisco ISE, Cisco SCA, Secure X, Wireless LAN Controllers, Wifi 6 Other Technologies:
SolarWinds, Wireless, securing DMZ, voice and unified communications Networking Protocols : In-depth understanding of routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP), VLANs, STP, VTP, and QoS. Security : Strong knowledge of network security protocols (IPSec, VPNs, ACLs), and firewall management. Cloud Integration : Experience with hybrid cloud environments and integrating Cisco networks with cloud providers (AWS, Azure). Network Automation : Familiarity with network automation tools (Cisco DNA Center, Ansible) is a plus. Scripting : Proficiency in scripting languages (Python, Bash) for automating network tasks. Plus Skills : knowledge or experience in Fortinet technology Soft Skills Analytical Mindset : Ability to quickly diagnose and resolve complex network issues. Communication : Excellent verbal and written communication skills for documentation and interaction with stakeholders. Teamwork : Collaborative approach to working with IT and security teams. Adaptability : Ability to manage multiple projects, work independently and adapt to rapidly changing environments. Work Environment Location : Onsite/Hybrid (3 days in the office) Schedule : Full-time, may require occasional on-call availability for critical issues. #10497