Network Systems Engineer and Technical Advisor (SETA)

SAIC is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Communications Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) professional in Chantilly, VA to provide critical support to  a government customer in the Chantilly area. This role is instrumental in delivering expert advisory and technical guidance in the areas of Unified Communications, Program Management, and Networking for complex government programs. The selected candidate will work closely with stakeholders, vendors, and cross-functional teams to ensure the seamless integration and performance of communication and networking solutions that align with client objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Unified Communications:

• Provide technical expertise and strategic guidance for the integration, deployment, and optimization of unified communication (UC) platforms (e.g., VoIP, video conferencing, collaboration tools, and messaging systems).


• Assess and recommend UC technologies to meet mission requirements and enhance operational capabilities.


• Oversee the interoperability of UC solutions with existing IT infrastructures, ensuring scalability and security.

Program Management:

• Support lifecycle program management functions, from requirements gathering to implementation and sustainment.


• Support the develop and maintenance of program documentation, including project plans, schedules, and performance metrics.


• Identify program risks and recommend mitigation strategies to meet client objectives and schedules.


• Lead and facilitate meetings to align stakeholders, track progress, and ensure deliverables are completed within scope, time, and budget.

Networking:

• Provide expert recommendations for the design, implementation, and maintenance of secure and resilient networks supporting mission-critical systems.


• Collaborate with IT and cybersecurity teams to ensure compliance with applicable standards and protocols (e.g., NIST, DISA STIGs).


• Support the evaluation and integration of networking technologies that improve efficiency and throughput across high-performance systems.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Act as a trusted advisor to government stakeholders, supporting strategic vision and performance optimization.


• Facilitate communication between vendors, engineers, and program sponsors to ensure deliverables align with mission requirements.


• Stay current with emerging technologies in unified communications and networking to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• Experience:
• 5+ years of experience working in a SETA or related technical advisory/support role, particularly in government programs.
• Proven experience with unified communications platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, Zoom, or similar).
• Strong expertise in networking technologies, including LAN/WAN, switches, routers, and firewalls.
• Demonstrated success in program/project management, including scheduling and risk management.
• Skills:
• Strong understanding of DoD and/or IC environments, standards, and technologies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly present technical ideas to non-technical audiences.
• A proactive problem-solving mindset with excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Active TS/SCI with current poly required to start and must be maintained.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PMP, Agile, or other project management certifications.
• CCNA, CCNP, or similar networking certifications.
• ITIL Certification or equivalent process framework experience.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and compliance requirements.