Network Architect

**Responsibilities & Key Deliverables**
1. Network Design and Architecture:
- Develop and implement scalable, reliable, and secure network architectures for IT and OT systems across manufacturing facilities.
- Design and optimize networks to support industrial operations, automation systems, and collaboration software
- Ensure network resilience and high availability for critical manufacturing processes.
2. Zero Trust Security Implementation:

- Lead the adoption and implementation of Zero Trust security principles across all network layers.
- Collaborate with security teams to identify vulnerabilities and deploy robust security measures for IT and OT networks.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and best practices for cybersecurity.
3. Operational Technology (OT) Expertise:

- Integrate OT systems with IT networks while ensuring safety, reliability, and interoperability.
- Work closely with manufacturing teams to understand and optimize network requirements for production equipment and industrial control systems.
4. Collaboration Software and Tools:

- Design and manage networks to facilitate seamless operation of collaboration tools and software across teams and facilities.
- Support and enhance communication platforms to improve productivity and efficiency in the manufacturing environment.
5. Network Management and Optimization:

- Monitor network performance and implement measures for continuous improvement.
- Troubleshoot network issues to minimize downtime and disruptions in manufacturing operations.
- Manage network-related risks and ensure disaster recovery plans are in place.
6. Team Collaboration and Leadership:

- Work closely with cross-functional teams, including IT, security, and manufacturing operations, to align network strategies with business goals.
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior network engineers and architects.
- Collaborate with external vendors and stakeholders for network-related procurement and project execution.

**Experience**
- 15+ years of experience in network architecture and engineering, with significant exposure to manufacturing industry networks.

**Qualifications**
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
- Expertise in IT and OT network design, integration, and management.
- Strong knowledge of Zero Trust security principles and experience implementing them in enterprise networks.
- Familiarity with industrial protocols, automation systems, and control networks (e.g., SCADA, PLCs) will be preferred.
- Proficiency in designing and managing networks that support collaboration tools, such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or similar platforms.
- Hands-on experience with network technologies, including routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, SD-WAN, and cloud-based solutions.
- Relevant certification in relevant networking or security domains (e.g., CCNP, CCIE, CISSP, or similar) is a plus.

**General Requirements**
- Knowledge:

- Deep understanding of Zero Trust, TCP/IP, OSI model, and network protocols like BGP, OSPF, VLANs, Cloud Networking, Wireless Network
- Proficiency in network design principles, architectures (e.g., hub-and-spoke, mesh) topology.
- Understanding of network security concepts, best practices, and common threats.
- Familiarity with cloud networking concepts and services provided by major cloud providers (AWS, Azure, GCP).
- Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent communication skills to interact with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Ability to work in fast-paced environments and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Knowledge of the latest trends and advancements in network technologies and cybersecurity.
- Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and resolve complex network issues.
- Communication: Effective communication skills to interact with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Documentation: Ability to create clear and concise documentation for network configurations and processes
- Teamwork: Ability to collaborate with other team members and departments.
- Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
- Certifications: Certifications like CCNP, CCIE, or JNCIP can demonstrate expertise in network engineering.
- Competencies:

- Continuous Learning: Commitment to staying updated on the latest network trends and technologies.
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze network performance data and identify areas for improvement.
- Decision Making: Ability to make informed decisions in complex network situations.
- Adaptability: Ability to adapt to new technologies and changes in the network environment.

**Job Segment**:Network Engineer, Architecture, Engineer, Engineering