Sr. Network Architect

Sr. Network Architect

Location : Chicago, IL

Roles and Responsibilities

The Sr. Infrastructure Architect will be responsible for designing and implementing robust network solutions using Cisco technologies. The role focuses on Switching & Routing and Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN (Viptela). The candidate will work from the office during day shifts, ensuring seamless network operations and contributing to the company's technological advancements.

The candidate must provide detailed Low Level Designs for network and security, possess implementation skills, and combine technical expertise with strong communication and presentation abilities. Hands-on experience in Cisco networking, Firewalls, Cisco Viptela SD-WAN, and Palo Alto Firewalls is required. The role involves device configuration of all networking equipment.

The candidate must be an individual contributor capable of self-directed work to meet project schedules. They should demonstrate collaboration and client relationship skills, focusing on timely project completion.

Ownership of tasks / projects and making relevant design decisions based on client requirements and CIS Technical Standards are essential. The candidate will report to supervisors and Program Managers, work with the CIS Architecture Review Board, and handle complex technical projects, providing both leadership and individual contribution.

Must have experience with full cycle assessment, design, HLD, LLD, implementation, testing, and related responsibilities, including :

• Datacenter / remote office and stores
• 15+ years Cisco routing and switching experience
• Extensive virtualization experience with Cisco appliances
• Experience with Cisco Viptela, vBond, vManage, vSmart, and policy-based routing
• Network health check monitoring and reporting
• Configuration and management of SD-WAN, MPLS, Internet, SIP Trunks
• Routing table management
• Cisco WLC 98XXX series controller management
• Network security infrastructure management, including proxies, web filters, ACLs, and access control
• Troubleshooting network performance issues related to latency
• Firewall policy management (Cisco ASA, Firepower FTD, Fortinet, Palo Alto, VPNs, ACLs)
• Experience with SD-WAN solutions like Fortinet, Meraki, Aruba, Prisma, VeloCloud
• WAN troubleshooting (Point-to-Point, MPLS, WAVE, Metro Ethernet)
• Designing and configuring segmentation, VLANs, VxLANs
• Firmware / software upgrades for network appliances and firewalls
• Vendor dispatch coordination
• Managing F5 or similar load balancers
• Network traffic analysis and bandwidth management
• Optional experience in intrusion detection, IPS, and scripting (Python)

Additional Qualifications

Education & Certifications

Salary & Benefits

The annual salary ranges from $131,000 to $161,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include :

Benefits are subject to change. Why work at Cognizant?

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics.

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