Network Architect

General Summary :

Provides expert-level support for enterprise and operational technology (OT) networks, encompassing in-vehicle systems, cellular routers, LAN / WAN infrastructure, carrier circuits, routing and switching, data centers, access and distribution layer switches, and enterprise wireless solutions. Resolves complex technical issues and serves as a key escalation point. Leads network design and implementation efforts while mentoring junior team members. Delivers technical expertise to internal stakeholders and external partners, ensuring reliable, secure, high-performance network operations in a 24 / 7 environment

Essential Duties and Responsibilities :

Lead the design, planning, and implementation of enterprise and operational networks, including architecture, hardware / software selection, and migration strategies.

Serve as the technical escalation point (Tier 3) for complex network issues, providing expert troubleshooting and resolution for both internal teams and external partners.

Provide hands-on support for network infrastructure, including configuration and deployment of routers, switches, wireless systems, and power equipment (UPS, PDUs).

Ensure scalability, redundancy, and failover capabilities, including disaster recovery and failover for both enterprise and Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) services.

Offer technical leadership and oversight to Tier 1 and Tier 2 engineers, ensuring efficient incident response, project delivery, and professional development.

Manage network monitoring and configuration platforms (e.g., Cisco ISE, DNAC) to ensure performance, availability, and compliance.

Maintain deep expertise in Layer 2 / 3 networking protocols (VLAN, STP, QoS, OSPF, BGP, etc.), VPNs, Cloud Networking, and security best practices.

Collaboration with cybersecurity teams to ensure compliance with appropriate standards (e.g., ISO, NIST, CJIS, PCI, etc.)

Develop and maintain network documentation, performance reports, disaster recovery strategies, and backup procedures.

Develop RFPs, EPRs, and participate in the vendor selection processes.

Establish enterprise networking standards and policies

Analyze network performance and recommend enhancements.  Have expertise with various network monitoring solutions.

Oversee ITS enterprise systems design, deployment, and architecture, ensuring alignment with agency goals, scalability, and interoperability across platforms.  ITS solutions include VBS, TSP networks, CCTV, CAD / AVL, Payment Systems, APN, IOT, cellular routers, and related Operational Technology (OT).

Lead the identification and implementation of enterprise-wide IT strategies, architecture standards, and technology roadmaps.

Collaborate with business units to translate operational needs into technical solutions and guide enhancements to existing ITS systems.

Collaborate with technical teams, including application developers and systems engineers, ensuring delivery of high-quality projects.

Engage in change and incident management processes, documenting actions and maintaining service levels in line with SLAs.

Stay current with emerging technologies, methodologies, and industry trends to continuously improve network and enterprise system capabilities.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required :

Note : An equivalent combination of related education and experience may be substituted for the below stated minimums excluding High School Diploma, GED, Licenses, or Certifications.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Science, Information Systems, Business, or a related field.

Seven (7) years of functional experience as a Senior Network Engineer supporting enterprise networks or a related field.

Preferred non-expired CCNP, CCNP Enterprise, or CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certifications.

Valid Texas Class A, B, or C driver’s license, no Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) conviction within the last sixty (60) consecutive months, not more than one (1) DWI on driving record, and not more than three (3) convictions of moving violations within the last thirty-six (36) months in order to operate DART non-revenue vehicles or drive in the course and scope of job.

Pass a physical (medical) examination that includes a drug screen in order to operate DART non-revenue vehicles.

Proficiency in PC software applications, including Microsoft Office or other related software applications.

Must be able to perform work from remote locations as needed.

Must be able to work in an on-call rotation.

Must maintain all certification(s) required for this position.

Must be able to work variable hours to include emergency response to outages.

Ability to be dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers. Gets first-hand customer information and uses it for improvements in products and services. Acts with customers in mind. Establishes and maintains effective relationships with customers and gains their trust and respect.

Ability to use rigorous logic and methods to solve difficult problems with effective solutions. Can see hidden problems. Is excellent at honest analysis. Looks beyond the obvious and does not stop at the first answer.

Ability to be able to write clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles. Can get messages across that have the desired effect.

Ability to use his / her time effectively and efficiently. Values time. Concentrates his / her efforts on the more important priorities. Gets more done in less time than others. Can attend to a broader range of activities.

Ability to learn quickly when facing new problems. A relentless and versatile learner. Open to change. Analyzes both successes and failures for clues to improvement. Experiments and will try anything to find solutions. Enjoys the challenge of unfamiliar tasks. Quickly grasps the essence and the underlying structure of anything.

Ability to quickly find common ground and solve problems for the good of all. Can represent his / her own interests and yet be fair to other groups. Can solve problems with peers with a minimum of noise. Is seen as a team player and is cooperative. Easily gains trust and support of peers. Encourages collaboration. Can be candid with peers.

Ability to be good at bringing the creative ideas of others to market. Has good judgment about which creative ideas and suggestions will work. Has a sense about managing the creative process of others. Can facilitate effective brainstorming. Can project how potential ideas may play out in the marketplace.

Ability to make good decisions (without considering how much time it takes) based upon a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment). Most of his / her solutions and suggestions turn out to be correct and accurate when judged over time. Sought out by others for advice and solutions.

Working Conditions :

Works in an environment where there is minimum exposure to dust, noise, or temperature. May be moderately exposed to unpleasant working conditions to include dust, noise, temperature, weather, petroleum products, and chemicals while visiting DART's operating facilities, assuming incumbent is observing all policies and procedures, safety precautions and regulations, and using all protective clothing and devices provided.

Note : The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. The statements are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All employees may perform other duties as assigned.

DART is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, supporting diversity in the workplace. M / F / D / V

Open until qualified applicants are identified.

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