Senior Principal Network Engineer

About the role

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Senior Principal Network Engineer to support a federal defense program focused on national security, mission-critical communications, and critical infrastructure protection. This position is on-site in Newington, VA. The Senior Principal Network Engineer will lead the design, implementation, and optimization of complex network environments supporting high-priority government operations.

Responsibilities

• Design and architect scalable, secure voice, video, wireless, and data communication networks in collaboration with engineering, security, cloud, and operations teams.
• Develop high-level and low-level network designs (HLDs/LLDs) and support the deployment and integration of enterprise and data center networking solutions.
• Troubleshoot complex network issues, conduct root cause analysis, and implement performance, reliability, and security improvements.
• Act as a trusted technical advisor by translating mission requirements into scalable network architectures and strategic solutions.
• Utilize advanced routing, switching, security, and automation technologies to optimize and modernize network infrastructure.

Required Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in network engineering, network architecture, or complex enterprise networking environments.
• Strong expertise with routing and switching technologies including BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, MPLS, VXLAN, and EVPN.
• Hands-on experience with Cisco technologies including Catalyst, Nexus, ACI, Next-Generation Firewalls, and enterprise LAN/WAN environments.
• Experience with network monitoring and troubleshooting tools such as SolarWinds, Wireshark, and NetFlow.
• Strong communication, presentation, troubleshooting, and analytical skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Active TS/SCI clearance required with eligibility for Special Access Program (SAP) approval.

Pay

Salary Range: $160,000 - $180,000 depending on experience

Benefits

• Full Benefits Package: PTO, Paid Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Tuition Reimbursement, Sick Leave as required by law.