Systems Network Engineer

We are seeking a skilled LAN/WAN Network Engineer to support the Department of State (DoS) Bureau of Diplomatic Technology (DT) program. This program delivers transparent, interconnected systems and robust security to enable the DoS to fulfill its U.S. foreign policy mission. DT provides comprehensive enterprise architecture design, engineering, operations, and maintenance support for desktops, servers, networks, firewalls, and enterprise applications across the Department.

Key Responsibilities:

• Evaluate, design, document, install, implement, test, and troubleshoot a wide range of network components and systems.


• Monitor, tune, and maintain network performance; set standards and ensure compliance across network infrastructure.


• Provide client consulting and training on network systems, architectures, and best practices.


• Plan, research, evaluate, and recommend new network and storage technologies.


• Utilize monitoring and performance analysis tools to identify, isolate, and resolve network issues.


• Develop solutions to operational challenges within the constraints of existing equipment and infrastructure.


• Create and execute contingency plans for network hardware failures, including both isolated incidents and major outages.


• Offer internal consulting, technical guidance, and support to application developers, IT operations, workstation support teams, management, and departmental clients.

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related discipline and at least 5 years of relevant experience; or a master’s degree and at least 3 years of experience. Additional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum of 8 years of IT network engineering support experience (including Tier II/Tier III support, network infrastructure implementation, and maintenance).
• Expert-level experience with one or more of the following: Cisco Nexus, Cisco Catalyst routing and switching, DoD Network Standards (STIGs).
• Experience supporting government customers in secure environments, with familiarity in NIPRNET and SIPRNET operating standards and guidelines.
• Demonstrated experience developing and conducting quality assurance reviews of engineering change orders for perimeter security hardware and software.
• Proficiency in root cause analysis, risk identification, and risk mitigation.
• Expert knowledge of cabling standards, including fiber optic and copper cable termination.
• Experience with network monitoring tools such as HP OpenView, STORM, AWS, NeuralStar, or similar platforms.

Required Clearance:

• US Citizenship.
• Active top secret clearance.

• Candidate must be qualified for a TS/SCI clearance and have held an SCI clearance within the past 3 years.

Desired Qualifications:

• ITIL® Foundation certification.
• Professional certifications such as Network+, Cisco CCNA, Cisco CCNP, or BICSI.
• Familiarity with the Department of State environment, including data and voice networks, IT security systems, policies, and procedures; knowledge of Foreign Affairs Handbooks (FAHs) and Foreign Affairs Manuals (FAMs).
• Strong interpersonal skills, including effective collaboration, self-awareness, and excellent written and verbal communication abilities.