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WAN Architect SME - Remote

Akima

The Role

Overview

Design, implement, and optimize USCIS WAN infrastructure across sites and cloud.

Key Responsibilities

  • wan design
  • performance analysis
  • routing guidance
  • architecture docs
  • tech evaluation
  • cloud migration

Tasks

-Develop and maintain WAN architecture documentation including topology diagrams, design artifacts, SOPs, and standards. -Evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., SASE, ZTNA, IPv6) and recommend enhancements aligned with modernization and Zero Trust initiatives. -Interface with USCIS stakeholders, DHS OCIO, and external carriers to coordinate WAN service delivery, performance SLAs, and issue resolution. -Conduct WAN performance analysis, capacity planning, failover analysis, and network optimization. -Collaborate with cybersecurity, infrastructure, and cloud teams to ensure secure and compliant data transmission in accordance with DHS/USCIS policy. -Lead the architectural design, planning, and implementation of WAN infrastructure to support USCIS enterprise systems and field office connectivity. -Support the development of WAN-related ATO packages, security assessments, and change control documentation. -Support enterprise initiatives such as cloud migration, telework enablement, application modernization, and disaster recovery planning. -Design and support secure, scalable, and highly available WAN architectures that meet mission and performance requirements. -Provide SME-level guidance for routing, switching, MPLS, SD-WAN, VPN, and cross-domain connectivity (on-prem to cloud).

Requirements

  • sd-wan
  • ccnp
  • cissp
  • ansible
  • 10+ years
  • aws

What You Bring

-Expert knowledge of WAN technologies and protocols, including: -CompTIA Security+, CASP+, or CISSP. -SD-WAN technologies (e.g., Cisco Viptela, Silver Peak, Meraki, Fortinet) -Juniper Networks Certified Specialist (JNCIS) or higher. -U.S. Citizenship (required for federal contract compliance). -Strong communication and documentation skills for both technical and executive-level audiences. -Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related discipline (or equivalent experience). -MPLS, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, QoS -Experience supporting DHS, USCIS, or other federal civilian agencies. -Knowledge of ITIL, NIST SP 800-53, RMF, and FISMA compliance processes. -Familiarity with cloud-based networking (AWS Direct Connect, Azure ExpressRoute) and hybrid networking strategies. -Experience designing and supporting large-scale enterprise or federal WANs. -Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or Expert (CCIE - Enterprise Infrastructure or Security). -Professional certifications such as: -Active DHS Public Trust clearance or ability to obtain; Secret/Top Secret preferred. -Familiarity with Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), SASE, and DHS reference architectures. -AWS or Azure Networking Specialty Certification. -Experience with SDN (Software-Defined Networking), network automation, and orchestration tools (e.g., Ansible, Python scripting). -10+ years of experience in network engineering or architecture, with a strong focus on WAN infrastructure. -Deep understanding of network security architecture, encryption, and DHS TIC (Trusted Internet Connections) 3.0 guidelines. -IPsec VPNs, GRE, DMVPN

The Company

About Akima

-Founded with a vision to support critical sectors, providing solutions across defense, intelligence, and civil sectors. -Serves a broad spectrum of industries, including energy, infrastructure, and water resources. -Delivered complex projects, such as large-scale infrastructure upgrades and energy management solutions. -Projects often involve intricate logistical coordination, requiring a deep understanding of specialized markets. -Approach is deeply collaborative, often working alongside government agencies and other key partners. -Noteworthy projects include managing water resource systems and optimizing energy infrastructure for municipalities. -Focus on operational excellence makes it a go-to partner for government and private sector organizations.

Sector Specialisms

Facilities & Ground Logistics

Information Technology

Aerospace Solutions

Protective Services

Systems Engineering

Mission Support

Government Security Operations

Detention Management Operations

Computing Infrastructure Providers

Data Processing

Web Hosting

Logistics and Supply Chain

Aviation Logistics

Supply Chain Services

Contractor Logistics Support

Depot Level Maintenance, Repair & Refit

Global Logistics Support

Maintenance

Transportation

Supply Chain Management

Security Clearance

-u.s. citizenship required for federal contract compliance -active dhs public trust clearance required or ability to obtain