Network Engineer

Job Summary

The Network Engineer will support the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Space Vehicles Directorate in designing, implementing, maintaining, and securing network infrastructure for space technology experiments and mission operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Network Design & Implementation: Design and develop cloud computing architectures supporting hardware/software-in-the-loop testing environments for space systems.

• Implement network solutions for Mission Operations Centers, including connections and equipment for spacecraft operations.

• Configure and deploy physical and cloud-based ground system infrastructure supporting space experiments.

• Design network architectures to support space technology experimentation across multiple classification levels.

• Classified Network Administration & Cross-Domain Solutions: Administer and maintain classified networks including SIPR, JWICS, and other specialized systems.

• Implement cross-domain solutions (CDS) to securely move data between different classification levels, external connections, and point-to-point transmissions.

• Deploy and maintain cryptographic solutions in support of secure communications.

• Lead stand-up, installation, accreditation, and maintenance of classified and unclassified IT systems.

• Support Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIF) and Special Access Program Facilities (SAPF) network requirements.

• Security, Compliance & Authorization: Prepare and provide support to Authorization to Operate (ATO) packages for information networks and network experiments.

• Obtain and maintain compliance with DoD Risk Management Framework (RMF) and Authorities to Operate.

• Implement comprehensive cybersecurity and information assurance measures in accordance with DoD requirements.

• Conduct network security assessments and implement mitigation strategies.

• Ensure compliance with Air Force and DoD security policies, including DISA STIGs and NIST standards.

• Technical Support & Troubleshooting: Provide Level 2/3 support for network-related issues.

• Collaborate with IT teams to resolve connectivity problems affecting users and business applications.

• Document network configurations, troubleshooting steps, and resolutions.

• Maintain network documentation including diagrams, procedures, and interface control documents.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field required.

• Experience: 3-10 years of experience in network engineering, administration, or related IT roles.

• Clearance: Secret, TS/SCI.

• Required Skills: Industry Certifications (Security+, CISSP, CASP+); Proficiency with DoD Risk Management Framework (RMF) and cybersecurity accreditation processes; Experience with cloud computing architectures (AWS, Azure, or DoD cloud environments); Strong knowledge of cross-domain solutions, encryption, and COMSEC implementations; Expertise in networking protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, VLANs, VPNs, etc.); Experience configuring and managing enterprise routers, switches, firewalls (Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, or equivalent); Knowledge of space communications systems and ground station networks; Proficiency with network monitoring, analysis, and troubleshooting tools; Understanding of DISA STIGs, NIST 800-53 controls, and DoD cybersecurity requirements; Experience with network security tools including IDS/IPS, firewalls, and access control systems; Excellent problem-solving abilities in high-stakes operational environments; Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and briefings; Ability to work effectively with government personnel, contractors, and mission partners; Capability to respond to and support surge requirements with short notice.

• Preferred Skills: Certifications: CCNA, CCNP, CCIE (Cisco certifications); Cloud certifications (AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Azure Administrator, etc.); DoD 8570/8140 compliance certifications; Experience supporting space mission operations or satellite ground systems; Familiarity with hardware/software-in-the-loop testing environments; Knowledge of SD-WAN, network automation, and Infrastructure as Code (Ansible, Terraform, etc.); Experience with Mission Operations Center (MOC) network architectures; Understanding of spacecraft communications protocols and telemetry systems; Experience with multi-classification network architectures in operational environments; Background in DevSecOps practices and CI/CD pipeline integration; Experience supporting Air Force Research Laboratory or DoD research environments.