Network Systems Architect

Role : Network Systems Architect

Location : Chicago, IL

Duration : 6 Months - Contract-to-hire potential.

Description :

The Principal Network Architect is a seasoned techno-functional leader with deep expertise in Network Engineering, Cloud Networking, Colocation Services, and Private Data Center infrastructure. This role requires a proven track record in leading solution and technical architecture functions, with the ability to translate strategic vision into actionable execution. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong leadership in driving complex initiatives, aligning technology with business goals, and delivering scalable, resilient network solutions across hybrid environments.

As a key contributor and thought-leader the Network Architect will spearhead the design, implementation, and support of network infrastructure and services across global footprint. This role is pivotal to our enterprise-wide transformation and modernization initiatives, providing visionary guidance to engineering and operations teams and influencing long-term architectural decisions. Ideal candidates will bring deep expertise in hybrid and multi-cloud networking, a strong product ownership mindset, and a relentless focus on delivering exceptional client outcomes.

Key responsibilities :

The Principal Network Architect will be responsible for establishing and maintaining well-architected standards and solution patterns across the network infrastructure landscape. This role will drive modernization and transformation initiatives, oversee the full lifecycle of network products and services, and ensure a seamless transition to Engineering and Operations.

• Network Architecture

Drive the Network Architecture Council to define and drive modernization strategies and technology roadmaps for both on-prem and cloud networking services. Lead vendor evaluations and manage third-party technology partnerships.

Architect, deploy, and optimize scalable, secure network solutions across public cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud). Oversee the implementation of connectivity hubs in global colocation facilities to support high-performance business applications.

Design and enforce comprehensive security frameworks for hybrid cloud network services, including system hardening and secure configuration management.

Ensure all network solutions align with industry standards (CIS, NIST, SOC 2). Lead engagements with internal and external auditors to maintain compliance and operational integrity.

Collaborate with Engineering and Operations teams to monitor and scale network services, ensuring seamless connectivity for business applications and office locations.

Lead and coordinate network infrastructure deployments across data centers, cloud environments, and mission-critical office sites.

Champion network automation initiatives by identifying opportunities for efficiency and implementing IaC and GitOps practices.

Create comprehensive documentation for network designs, solutions, and infrastructure states-past, present, and future.

Serve as the highest-level escalation point for Network Engineering and Operations, providing expert guidance and resolution.

Qualifications :

Demonstrated mastery in designing enterprise-wide solutions involving Routing, Switching, Load-Balancing, Firewalling, SD-WAN, and DNS technologies

Over 15 years of hands-on experience architecting, deploying, and evolving network solutions in on-premises and colocation settings. CCIE certification or multiple CCNPs strongly preferred.

Minimum 10 years of experience designing and operating network infrastructures in public cloud platforms such as Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud. Relevant certifications are a plus.

Proven ability to implement and scale automation practices using tools like Terraform, Ansible, Python, GitHub, and GitHub Actions. Experience with additional orchestration platforms is highly preferred.

Deep understanding of observability tools to extract actionable insights, drive performance improvements, and accelerate issue resolution.

Exceptional time management and collaboration skills within cross-functional teams spanning three global regions.

Expert-level analytical skills for diagnosing and resolving complex network issues across hybrid environments including on-prem, office sites, and cloud.

Strong grasp of security best practices for deploying network services across hybrid cloud ecosystems (on-prem, private, and public cloud).

Superb verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills to facilitate decision-making and alignment across teams supporting mission-critical applications.

Experience as a product owner with a track record of evolving services through customer-driven feedback and agile iteration.

Solid background in Agile environments, including the use of Agile tools for managing daily tasks, feature development, and infrastructure initiatives. Familiarity with Azure DevOps (ADO) is preferred.

Self-starter with a passion for ongoing learning and identifying opportunities to continually enhance network products and services.