Lead Network Engineer I

Trace Systems is seeking a Lead Network Engineer I to provide Tier III network engineering and operational support for the EACN environment at Scott AFB, Illinois. The engineer will lead hands-on configuration, troubleshooting, monitoring, security compliance, and infrastructure lifecycle activities for classified and unclassified networks. The project associated with this position is currently in the proposal stage.

Responsibilities

• Lead configuration, implementation, and support of LAN/WAN infrastructure, network operating systems, and computer data exchange requirements.
• Identify and resolve network performance issues; troubleshoot, repair or replace, configure, monitor, and upgrade EACN equipment and systems.
• Support replacement of end-of-life hardware and software and execute approved installation, transition, and cutover activities.
• Review installation progress for accuracy, adherence to network design, and conformance with telecommunications standards.
• Configure and maintain network security, monitoring, and analytics tools such as ServiceNow, SolarWinds, and Splunk.
• Lead execution and documentation of USCYBERCOM, DISA, and Air Force tasking orders and STIG requirements.
• Ensure security changes are validated in the test environment before implementation on operational networks.
• Provide forecasts, trend analysis, resource-planning input, compliance status, and technical guidance to Government engineers and the ISSM.

Requirements

• Active, in-scope US Government issued Top Secret clearance (minimum); higher-level eligibility may be required based on assigned access.
• US Citizenship is required due to the nature of the work and contract requirements.
• Meet the applicable DoD 8140 qualification requirements for the assigned work role: 441 Network Operations Specialist, Proficiency Level: Advanced.
• 5+ years of network engineering or administration experience supporting enterprise LAN/WAN environments.
• Current Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification, or ability to obtain it within six months of employment.
• DoD-approved IA baseline certification commensurate with the position, or ability to obtain it within six months.
• Hands-on experience with routers, switches, network monitoring, troubleshooting, and DISA STIG implementation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to coordinate effectively with technical and non-technical personnel.
• Ability to work in a secure DoD environment and comply with applicable Air Force, installation, and program security requirements.

Qualifications

• Qualifying credentials include a Masters or Ph.D degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Technology, or Software Engineering, or completion of relevant military communications or network training.
• Qualifying certifications may include SecurityX / CASP+, CCNA, CCNP Security, CCSP, GCED, GCIA, GCLD, GDSA, GFACT, or other DoD 8140-approved certifications.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience supporting Air Force networks, EACN, A2G2, network operations centers, or classified network environments.
• Experience with SolarWinds, Splunk, ServiceNow, Cisco platforms, and security-compliance reporting.
• Prior military service or experience supporting Department of Defense or U.S. Air Force customers.
• Experience supporting mission-essential communications in distributed, multi-site environments.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $90,000 to $115,000. Actual salaries may vary above or below the range based on various factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee wellness program
• Life and disability insurance
• Retirement savings plan
• Company holidays and paid time off (PTO)