WAN Architect SME - Remote

Overview

Design, implement, and optimize USCIS WAN infrastructure, ensuring security and cloud connectivity.

Key Responsibilities

• wan architecture
• routing design
• sd-wan
• performance analysis
• stakeholder coordination
• security assessment

Tasks

-Support the development of WAN-related ATO packages, security assessments, and change control documentation. -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). -Support enterprise initiatives such as cloud migration, telework enablement, application modernization, and disaster recovery planning. -Lead the architectural design, planning, and implementation of WAN infrastructure to support USCIS enterprise systems and field office connectivity. -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. -Evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., SASE, ZTNA, IPv6) and recommend enhancements aligned with modernization and Zero Trust initiatives. -Develop and maintain WAN architecture documentation including topology diagrams, design artifacts, SOPs, and standards. -Collaborate with cybersecurity, infrastructure, and cloud teams to ensure secure and compliant data transmission in accordance with DHS/USCIS policy.

Requirements

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

What You Bring

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

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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

Security Clearance

-requires active dhs public trust clearance or ability to obtain; secret/top secret preferred.