24 Network Architect jobs in Chicago

Network Architect

Zurich North America is currently hiring a Network Architect to work for its team out of our North American Headquarters in Schaumburg, IL. This position will provide expertise from a company perspective to various aspects of IT infrastructure. This includes being a trusted advisor for business and IT, providing clear technology and process direction to stakeholders, reviewing internal and external supplier proposals and quotations, and performing the technical validation of supplier solutions to ensure that they are in line with company technology standards. Responsible for the implementation and running of Zurich policies, standards and governance, managing the deployment and integration of operational IT services and solutions, and service management standards, and is aligned with operational process and policy compliance. Acts as driving force to promote cost effective services, through standardization and driving down run costs.

• This person will work in a hybrid schedule in our North America HQ in Schaumburg, IL.

• This is a Zurich North American role servicing the various ZNA business units.

• All aspects of the role apply regardless of whether the relevant infrastructure and services are delivered in house or through third party contracts.

• Provides expertise from a company perspective to various aspects of IT infrastructure. This includes being a trusted advisor for business and IT, providing clear technology and process direction to stakeholders, reviewing internal and external supplier proposals and quotations, and performing the technical validation of supplier solutions to ensure that they are in line with company technology standards.

Job Accountabilities:

• Configures and maintains company´s IT infrastructure and its components where applicable.

• Understands the relevant IT infrastructure technologies and services.

• Is aware of and keeps abreast current technology directions trends and potential applicability of said technology to Zurich North America

• Ensures information security based on defined security policies and guidelines relevant to the role

• Collaborates with peers and suppliers about operational activities.

• Acts as point of contact with other IT functions and third-party suppliers relevant to the respective role.

• Operates daily to ensure the delivery of a consistent level of service provision to different customers around the world.

• Plans and coordinates system maintenance activities.

• Provides operational support in conjunction with our partners and helps drive resolution during outages

• Administers and implements systems and their components according to given guidelines.

• Is responsible for overseeing change management for the relevant infrastructure components.

• Documents outages and errors and administers actions to solve problems across internal and external teams.

• Monitors systems availability/performance and takes adequate actions for problem prevention in own area of responsibility.

• Performs incident, problem, and escalation management for own area of responsibility.

• Maintains methods, tools, and standards to maintain data center and/or network availability and performance.

• Supports business projects to ensure consistent design and implementation within the existing (planned) infrastructure.

• Educates and trains new data center/network employees.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree in Information Technology and 6 or more years of experience in the Information Technology area OR

• High School Diploma or Equivalent in Information Technology and 8 or more years of experience in the Information Technology area OR

• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an Associate Degree in Information Technology and 6 or more years of experience in the Information Technology area

Preferred Qualifications:

• Wi-Fi design, deployment and support – preferably with Cisco equipment

• Experience with SDWan – preferably with Cisco

• Experience with IP required, ideally including experience with IPv6

• Experience with routing protocols and approaches (including experience with eBGP)

• Overall strong understanding of network security best practices and approach

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Customer service experience

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

At Zurich, compensation for roles is influenced by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the specific office location, role, skill set, and level of experience. In compliance with local laws, Zurich commits to providing a fair and reasonable compensation range for each role. For more information about our Total Rewards, please clickhere ( . Additional rewards may encompass short-term incentive bonuses and merit increases. We encourage candidates with salary expectations beyond the provided range to apply as they will be considered based on their experience, skills, and education. The compensation indicated represents a nationwide market range and has not been adjusted for geographic differentials pertaining to the location where the position may be filled. The proposed salary range for this position is $124,410.00 to $203,610.00, with short-term incentive bonus eligibility set at 20%.

As an insurance company, Zurich is subject to 18 U.S. Code § 1033.

A future with Zurich. What can go right when you apply at Zurich?

Now is the time to move forward and make a difference. At Zurich, we want you to share your unique perspectives, experiences and ideas so we can grow and drive sustainable change together. As part of a leading global organization, Zurich North America has over 150 years of experience managing risk and supporting resilience. Today, Zurich North America is a leading provider of commercial property-casualty insurance solutions and a wide range of risk management products and services for businesses and individuals. We serve more than 25 industries, from agriculture to technology, and we insure 90% of the Fortune 500®. Our growth strategy is not limited to our business. As an employer, we strive to provide ongoing career development opportunities, and we foster an environment where voices are diverse, behaviors are inclusive, actions drive equity, and our people feel a sense of belonging. Be a part of the next evolution of the insurance industry. Join us in building a brighter future for our colleagues, our customers and the communities we serve. Zurich maintains a comprehensive employee benefits package for employees as well as eligible dependents and competitive compensation. Please clickhere ( to learn more.

Zurich in North America is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Zurich does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Any unsolicited resume will become the property of Zurich American Insurance. If you are a preferred vendor, please use our Recruiting Agency Portal for resume submission.

Location(s): AM - Schaumburg

Remote Working: Hybrid

Schedule: Full Time

Employment Sponsorship Offered: Yes

Linkedin Recruiter Tag: #LI-AW1 #LI-ASSOCIATE

EOE Disability / Veterans

Job Description

RRD has an immediate opening for a Junior Network Architect to join our team!

Position Summary

Supports the design, development, and implementation of enterprise network solutions under the guidance of senior architects and network engineering teams. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the reliability, scalability, and security of the organization’s network infrastructure. Help troubleshoot and resolve network issues across data centers and remote sites. Support the evaluation of new technologies and solutions for improving network performance, security, and reliability. Maintain diagrams, documentation, and inventories related to network architecture and configurations.

Responsibilities

• Provide deep technical expertise, guidance and support to Network Engineering and operations team members and Architecture peers across several key network infrastructure environments, including Data Center Core, Cloud networks, Remote Access, Security zone designs, Security standards and practices, application performance, network monitoring and management tools.
• Architect and lead deployments for secure, resilient LAN/WAN environments using Cisco, Palo Alto and Aruba technologies.
• Manage our existing Netscaler environment as well as conduct training for other members of the team.
• Anticipate associated technical issues affecting the architecture and communicate issues to appropriate team member(s).
• Work with data architecture and physical infrastructure teams to ensure that data, infrastructure and applications architectures are aligned.
• Collaborate with principal customers and business analysts in applications, enterprise infrastructure, business technology, and other key departments, to define current architectures, identify real or potential problem areas, and facilitate consensus on integration, nature and timing of changes.
• Provide direction and mentoring to the team to ensure consistent architectural approaches are utilized.
• Document infrastructure and change control according to strict compliance standards
• Performs other related duties and participates in special projects as assigned.

Qualifications:
Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in discipline related to functional work or role with 8-10 years of relevant work experience.
• Solid experience in planning/architecture development and support, with experience
• Must have demonstrates expertise, understanding, or knowledge in some of following:

- System analysis and design techniques

- Technical architecture, current information systems supporting the enterprise

- Providing architectural risk assessments and architecture reviews of software systems.

- Functional analysis at the enterprise level

- Data analysis and modeling at the enterprise level

- In-depth knowledge and proficiency of networking protocols and solutions: TCP/IP, BGP, VLANs, SDWAN, Palo Alto Firewalls, SolarWinds, Citrix NetScaler, DUO, Cisco and HPE/Aruba

• Able to consistently contribute effort, leadership, and creative thinking to solving complex and significant problems in a collaborative fashion.
• Able to communicate complex concepts, problems and solutions clearly and effectively to all levels within the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to perform at the highest level of proficiency in utilizing tools and applications to complete assignments.
• Able to work on special projects to enhance internal system functionality from the operational business perspective.
• Cisco or Palo Alto certification is preferred.

Additional Information

RRD's current salary range for this role is $105,900 to $69,500 / year. The salary range may be adjusted based on the applicable geographic location of the hired employee, and the range may change in the future. At RRD, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions may vary based upon, but not limited to education, skills, experience, proficiency, performance, shift and location. Depending on the role, in addition to base salary, the total compensation package may also include participation in a bonus, commission or incentive program. RRD’s benefit offerings include medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, disability insurance, 401(k) with company match, life insurance and other voluntary supplemental insurance coverages, plus parental leave, adoption assistance, tuition assistance and employer/partner discounts.

#RRD-Dice

#LI-RRD

#LI-Hybrid

All employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of both a pre-employment background and drug screen.

RRD is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans

Compensation:
$1 5,900- 105,900 per year

Cognizant
Location - Chicago, IL (No Remote as this is client facing)
Start Date - Immediately
Rate - Competitive
Client - McDonalds(Confidential)
Kindly go through the JD
20+ years experienced professional and practice leader in Cloud and Infrastructure Services, responsible for fostering and maintaining relationships with key client stakeholders including Sr. Directors and VPs.
Primarily responsible for growth of the infrastructure portfolio, overseeing the current ops (including delivery), establishing a sense of overall accountability, providing the thought leadership oversight and governance.
Deep technical understanding and appreciation of business challenges leading to be a key enabler and to become a trusted adviser to executive leadership.
A thought leader, an enterprise architect, a mentor for the team with an expertise around solution designing, pre-sales and consulting, practice and competency development, service delivery etc.
Core areas of technical expertise include network services, service creations and driving the automation platform enhancements keeping end user experience at the core.
Also building business aligned solutions involving converged IT & OT networks, leveraging advanced technologies such as SD-WAN, SD-LAN, SASE, 5G, Next Gen WiFi.
Should have led large & complex multi-tower pursuits/deals as an Enterprise Architect including Digital Work Place, Networks, DC, Cloud and Application services.
Experience in below areas:
oCloud Eco-System: Cloud Enablement, Data Services & Cloud Shared Services
oInfrastructure & Network Services: Enterprise Network Architecture, Network Standards and Solutions.
oEnd User Infrastructure & Operations
oPreferably some experience around Restaurant Infrastructure and Operations

Network Architect
Remote
Contract
Client will be discussed with Candidate

Candidate must work PST Hours

Job Title: Network Service Architect x2
Location: Remote work, preferably candidates that are located in Seattle or Mountain View that can work in Korea time zone (3pm-9pm PST) at least 2 days a week.

Duration:6 months+
This Architect will lead the team of other Network Engineers for our Coupang project.
Network Lead needs to know the following:

• Nvidia SuperPod - DGX (HEAVILY preferred and if they don't have this they need to be solid on every other bullet point)
• Infiniband
• CulumlusOS
• BGP
• WAN Link integration
• Mellanox switches
• Fortinet Firewalls
• Nvidia SuperPod experience
• These resources should be subject matter experts on HPC networking Key Responsibilities:
• Underlay Network Design: Design and implement underlay network topologies for WAN, LAN, and VXLAN environments, ensuring robust, scalable, and fault-tolerant networks.
• Device Configuration: Configure and manage core network devices including switches, routers, and firewalls, with a focus on performance, security, and operational efficiency.
• SDN Integration: Implement and maintain Software-Defined Networking (SDN) solutions, ensuring the network is automated, flexible, and easily adaptable to evolving needs.
• Network Automation: Develop and deploy automation scripts and tools to streamline network provisioning, configuration, and management tasks.
• Performance Optimization: Monitor network performance and troubleshoot network issues across multiple layers to ensure low-latency, high-availability, and optimal traffic routing.
• Security Configuration: Ensure the network infrastructure adheres to best practices for security, including the configuration of firewalls, access control lists (ACLs), and other protective measures.
• Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation for network designs, configurations, troubleshooting steps, and automation processes.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other infrastructure teams (e.g., Cloud, DevOps, Systems, Security) to ensure seamless network integration and support for cross-functional projects.
• Incident Response: Participate in incident resolution and troubleshooting of network-related issues, providing root cause analysis and implementing solutions to prevent recurrence. Qualifications:
• Extensive experience in designing and managing underlay network infrastructure, including WAN, LAN, and VXLAN.
• Proven experience with SDN (Software Defined Networking) technologies and platforms (e.g., Cisco ACI, VMware NSX, etc.).
• Strong knowledge of network hardware, including switches, routers, and firewalls (Cisco, Juniper, Arista, Fortinet, etc.).
• Hands-on experience with network automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Python scripting, Cisco DNA, or other automation platforms).
• Deep understanding of IP networking concepts, routing protocols (OSPF, BGP, etc.), and network security best practices.
• Familiarity with network monitoring and troubleshooting tools (e.g., Wireshark, SolarWinds, Nagios, etc.).
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to resolve complex network issues across different network layers.
• Experience with cloud networking concepts and integration of on-premise networks with cloud environments (AWS, GCP, Azure).
• Solid understanding of network security protocols and firewall management (e.g., ACLs, VPNs, NAT).
• Excellent documentation and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams. Preferred Skills:
• Certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, JNCIP, or equivalent.
• Experience with large-scale enterprise or data center networks.
• Familiarity with network performance and monitoring tools like NetFlow, SNMP, and sFlow.
• Experience with DevOps and CI/CD methodologies in a network automation context.
• Familiarity with network telemetry and monitoring solutions (e.g., OpenTelemetry, Prometheus, Grafana).

Network Architect

Zurich North America is currently hiring a Network Architect to work for its team out of our North American Headquarters in Schaumburg, IL. This position will provide expertise from a company perspective to various aspects of IT infrastructure. This includes being a trusted advisor for business and IT, providing clear technology and process direction to stakeholders, reviewing internal and external supplier proposals and quotations, and performing the technical validation of supplier solutions to ensure that they are in line with company technology standards. Responsible for the implementation and running of Zurich policies, standards and governance, managing the deployment and integration of operational IT services and solutions, and service management standards, and is aligned with operational process and policy compliance. Acts as driving force to promote cost effective services, through standardization and driving down run costs.
+ This person will work in a hybrid schedule in our North America HQ in Schaumburg, IL.
+ This is a Zurich North American role servicing the various ZNA business units.
+ All aspects of the role apply regardless of whether the relevant infrastructure and services are delivered in house or through third party contracts.
+ Provides expertise from a company perspective to various aspects of IT infrastructure. This includes being a trusted advisor for business and IT, providing clear technology and process direction to stakeholders, reviewing internal and external supplier proposals and quotations, and performing the technical validation of supplier solutions to ensure that they are in line with company technology standards.
Job Accountabilities:
+ Configures and maintains company´s IT infrastructure and its components where applicable.
+ Understands the relevant IT infrastructure technologies and services.
+ Is aware of and keeps abreast current technology directions trends and potential applicability of said technology to Zurich North America
+ Ensures information security based on defined security policies and guidelines relevant to the role
+ Collaborates with peers and suppliers about operational activities.
+ Acts as point of contact with other IT functions and third-party suppliers relevant to the respective role.
+ Operates daily to ensure the delivery of a consistent level of service provision to different customers around the world.
+ Plans and coordinates system maintenance activities.
+ Provides operational support in conjunction with our partners and helps drive resolution during outages
+ Administers and implements systems and their components according to given guidelines.
+ Is responsible for overseeing change management for the relevant infrastructure components.
+ Documents outages and errors and administers actions to solve problems across internal and external teams.
+ Monitors systems availability/performance and takes adequate actions for problem prevention in own area of responsibility.
+ Performs incident, problem, and escalation management for own area of responsibility.
+ Maintains methods, tools, and standards to maintain data center and/or network availability and performance.
+ Supports business projects to ensure consistent design and implementation within the existing (planned) infrastructure.
+ Educates and trains new data center/network employees.
Basic Qualifications:
+ Bachelors Degree in Information Technology and 6 or more years of experience in the Information Technology area OR
+ High School Diploma or Equivalent in Information Technology and 8 or more years of experience in the Information Technology area OR
+ Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an Associate Degree in Information Technology and 6 or more years of experience in the Information Technology area
Preferred Qualifications:
+ Wi-Fi design, deployment and support - preferably with Cisco equipment
+ Experience with SDWan - preferably with Cisco
+ Experience with IP required, ideally including experience with IPv6
+ Experience with routing protocols and approaches (including experience with eBGP)
+ Overall strong understanding of network security best practices and approach
+ Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
+ Customer service experience
+ Strong verbal and written communication skills
At Zurich, compensation for roles is influenced by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the specific office location, role, skill set, and level of experience. In compliance with local laws, Zurich commits to providing a fair and reasonable compensation range for each role. For more information about our Total Rewards, please clickhere ( . Additional rewards may encompass short-term incentive bonuses and merit increases. We encourage candidates with salary expectations beyond the provided range to apply as they will be considered based on their experience, skills, and education. The compensation indicated represents a nationwide market range and has not been adjusted for geographic differentials pertaining to the location where the position may be filled. The proposed salary range for this position is $124,410.00 to $203,610.00, with short-term incentive bonus eligibility set at 20%.
As an insurance company, Zurich is subject to 18 U.S. Code § 1033.
A future with Zurich. What can go right when you apply at Zurich?
Now is the time to move forward and make a difference. At Zurich, we want you to share your unique perspectives, experiences and ideas so we can grow and drive sustainable change together. As part of a leading global organization, Zurich North America has over 150 years of experience managing risk and supporting resilience. Today, Zurich North America is a leading provider of commercial property-casualty insurance solutions and a wide range of risk management products and services for businesses and individuals. We serve more than 25 industries, from agriculture to technology, and we insure 90% of the Fortune 500®. Our growth strategy is not limited to our business. As an employer, we strive to provide ongoing career development opportunities, and we foster an environment where voices are diverse, behaviors are inclusive, actions drive equity, and our people feel a sense of belonging. Be a part of the next evolution of the insurance industry. Join us in building a brighter future for our colleagues, our customers and the communities we serve. Zurich maintains a comprehensive employee benefits package for employees as well as eligible dependents and competitive compensation. Please clickhere ( to learn more.
Zurich in North America is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Zurich does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Any unsolicited resume will become the property of Zurich American Insurance. If you are a preferred vendor, please use our Recruiting Agency Portal for resume submission.
Location(s): AM - Schaumburg
Remote Working: Hybrid
Schedule: Full Time
Employment Sponsorship Offered: Yes
Linkedin Recruiter Tag: #LI-AW1 #LI-ASSOCIATE
EOE Disability / Veterans

Description
We are seeking an experienced Network Architect to assess, optimize, and guide the future direction of our network infrastructure. This role is highly strategic-helping determine whether the organization needs additional FTEs, external support, or new solutions. You'll analyze network traffic, review reports, identify opportunities for improvement, and create documentation and mapping for all sites.
This is a unique opportunity to step in as an outside voice, provide clarity, and ensure the network continues to operate with stability and scalability across multiple distribution sites.
Key Responsibilities:
+ Review and analyze network reports, traffic, and performance.
+ Provide recommendations on resource needs (internal vs. external).
+ Map, document, and standardize network configurations across 11 distribution sites.
+ Support SD-WAN mesh environments, ensuring stability and scalability.
+ Collaborate with highly technical IT team members to identify gaps and unify practices.
+ Drive best practices in network design, security, and management.
Must-Have Experience:
+ Fortinet technologies - network gear, routers, firewalls, and WiFi access points.
+ Fortigate configuration - hands-on experience setting up and managing Fortinet products.
+ SD-WAN - design, implementation, and optimization.
Nice to Have:
+ Experience in manufacturing environments.
Environment Details:
+ 11 distribution sites
+ SD-WAN mesh
+ Largest sites located in Manitowoc and Ripon, WI
Why This Role?
This is an urgent, high-visibility role where you will shape the future of the organization's network strategy. The environment is stable, recently standardized, and primed for further optimization.
Requirements - At least 10 years of experience in network architecture and analysis.
- Hands-on expertise with Fortinet technologies, including FortiGate, FortiAnalyzer, and FortiManager.
- Proven ability to design, implement, and optimize SD-WAN environments.
- Strong background in configuring and managing network security protocols.
- Experience in documenting and mapping complex network infrastructures.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate with technical teams and drive unified practices.
- Familiarity with manufacturing environments is a plus.
- Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret network data and performance metrics. Technology Doesn't Change the World, People Do.®
Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.
Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app ( and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.
All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.
© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "Apply Now," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use ( .

**Sr. Network Architect**
Location : Chicago, IL
**Roles/Responsibilities**
The Sr. Infra. Architect will be responsible for designing and implementing robust network solutions using Cisco technologies. With a focus on Switching & Routing and Cisco Catalyst SDWAN (Viptela), the role requires a deep understanding of network architecture. The candidate will work from the office during day shifts, ensuring seamless network operations and contributing to the company's technological advancements.
The candidate must provide high and detailed Low Level designs for network and security, implementation skills and combine technical intelligence with communication and presentation abilities. This candidate needs to have strong hands-on experience in Cisco networking, Firewalls, Cisco Viptela SD-WAN , and Palo Alto Firewalls. This position requires candidate to do the specific device configuration of all networking equipment.
Candidate must be an individual contributor capable of self directed work to meet project schedules and task completion. Function as part of team demonstrating collaboration and client relationship skills, focused on timely completion of the complete network projects.
Candidate must be able to assume ownership of assigned task/project and make relevant design decisions needed to provide requested deliverable based on client requirements that meet the CIS Technical Standards. Typically reports to supervisor and Program managers during project phase, Works with CIS Architecture Review Board. . Works on advanced, complex technical projects or business issues requiring state of the art technical or industry knowledge. Works with overall Project management and timelines and communication. Will also provide a leadership role and individual contributor role for overall Network Architecture Projects.
The candidate must have a strong demonstrated skills full cycle assessment, Design, HLD, LLD, build or Implementation, testing, etc. responsibilities for with knowledge of below responsibility for
Datacenter/remote office and Stores,.
15+ years Cisco routing and switching, Carrier Netural Facilities (CNF)
Extensive Experience Virtualization and virtualized Cisco appliances
Extensive experience Cisco Viptela, vBond, vManage, vSmart, Policy based routing
Network appliances and firewalls Health Check Monitoring & Reporting
Configuring and Managing and Data (SD-WAN, MPLS, Internet, SIP Trunks)
Configuring and Managing routing tables
Cisco WLC 98XXX series controller
Managing network security infrastructure, proxies, web filters, ACLs, and network access control
Troubleshoot Network Performance issues related to latency and reduction of latency
Experience managing Firewall policies on of the following: Cisco ASA, Cisco Firepower FTD, Fortinet, Palo Altos, Site to Site IPSEC VPN, and device Access Control Lists
Experience with one or more SD-WAN, Cisco Viptela, Fortinet, Meraki, Aruba, Prisma SD-WAN, VeloCloud, etc.
Extensive experience Point to Point, MPLS, WAVE, Metro Ethernet, etc. WAN Troubleshooting
Extensive experience designing, configuring segmentation and VLANs, VxLANs,
Network appliance and firewall Firmware/Software Upgrades
Coordinating Vendor Dispatch Management
Configure Manage F5 or similar Load Balancer
Perform network traffic analysis as needed
Perform Bandwidth Management and Optimization latency reduction (WAN/SD-WAN/LAN and Wireless)
Some experience with Intrusion detection and IPS a plus
Automation experience is a plus, such as automated network device
Python or other scripting experience
Additional required Qualifications:
Exceptional communication both written and spoken skills - able to speak to top executives, business and technical leaders. Able to adapt vocabulary and style for each situation; able to represent complex ideas with effective documents and visuals and to adapt presentations to the expectations and background of the audience
Demonstrated collaboration and stakeholder management skills - able to work effectively with others on common tasks; build rapport, gain support, instill confidence, take actions which respect the needs and contributions of others; find common ground; negotiate win-win solutions; and share credit with others; all while achieving the objectives of both the team and stakeholders
Solid understanding of security controls and frameworks
Some applied knowledge of cloud networking technologies (AWS, Azure, Private cloud, etc.)
Applied knowledge of high availability networking infrastructure designs and methodologies
Applied knowledge of systems monitoring and incident handling, capacity planning and performance tuning
Familiar with SOX, PCI-DSS, HIPAA regulatory compliance. Understanding and experience with FDA compliance and/or Good Manufacturing Process (GMP) a plus
Proficient in Word, Excel and Visio, PowerPoint
Education and Certifications:
Minimum of 15+ years' experience in networking both datacenters and remote offices including leading complex network projects
Nice to have current technical certifications preferred (CISSP, CCSP, HPE , Aruba, Fortinet , Cisco (CNP, CCIE),)
Bachelor's degree in computer science, business, information systems or related discipline
Salary and Benefits:
The annual salary for this position is between ($131,000 to $161,000) depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.
This position is also eligible for Cognizant's discretionary annual incentive program and stock awards, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant's applicable plans.
Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
+ Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
+ Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
+ 401(k) plan and contributions
+ Long-term/Short-term Disability
+ Paid Parental Leave
+ Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Disclaimer: The benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.
Why Cognizant ?
+ Collaborate with a community of experts to enhance and expand your skills
+ Join a team where global culture embraces diversity of thought and background.
+ Find balance with our hybrid model that prioritizes your health, safety and well-being.
+ Opportunity to work for leading global companies while advancing your career.
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Our client is a global leader in telecommunications innovation, seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead 5G Network Architect to join their advanced technology division. This is a fully remote, principal-level position that requires a visionary individual to design, develop, and oversee the implementation of cutting-edge 5G network infrastructure. You will be at the forefront of shaping the future of wireless communication, focusing on core network functions, radio access networks (RAN), and edge computing solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a deep technical expertise in 5G standards (3GPP), cloud-native architectures, network virtualization (NFV/SDN), and IP networking. Responsibilities include defining the 5G network strategy, creating detailed architectural designs, evaluating new technologies and vendors, leading technical discussions with cross-functional teams, and ensuring the scalability, reliability, and security of the network. You will also mentor junior engineers, troubleshoot complex network issues, and contribute to the development of intellectual property. A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field is required, along with a minimum of 10 years of experience in telecommunications network design and architecture, with a significant focus on 5G. Proven experience in designing and deploying large-scale, mission-critical networks is essential. Strong understanding of RAN technologies (O-RAN, vRAN), core network elements (AMF, SMF, UPF), and transport networks is required. Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes) is highly desirable. Excellent leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills are paramount for this role. This is a unique opportunity to drive innovation in the 5G space from anywhere in the US.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain the overall 5G network architecture roadmap.
• Design and document detailed network solutions for 5G core, RAN, and transport.
• Evaluate and select new technologies and vendors to meet strategic objectives.
• Lead technical design reviews and provide architectural guidance.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure successful implementation of network designs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex network performance and interoperability issues.
• Define network security policies and ensure compliance.
• Mentor and guide junior network engineers and architects.
• Develop technical proposals and present solutions to stakeholders.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in 5G and related technologies.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in telecommunications network architecture and design.
• Extensive knowledge of 5G NR, 3GPP standards, and 5G core network functions.
• Strong expertise in NFV, SDN, and cloud-native network principles.
• Experience with O-RAN, vRAN, and related open networking concepts.
• Proficiency in IP networking, routing protocols, and security.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization is a plus.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead complex technical projects.

Our client is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at all levels.

Our client, a dynamic and innovative leader in the telecommunications industry, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Network Architect to join their world-class engineering team. This is a critical remote-first role where you will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing robust, scalable, and secure network infrastructures that support our cutting-edge services. You will play a key role in shaping the future of our network architecture, ensuring its reliability, performance, and efficiency.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing and documenting complex network architectures, including LAN, WAN, and cloud-based solutions.
• Leading the evaluation and selection of new network technologies and vendors.
• Developing and enforcing network standards, policies, and procedures.
• Providing technical leadership and mentorship to junior network engineers.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to define network requirements and ensure successful project delivery.
• Troubleshooting and resolving advanced network issues.
• Staying abreast of emerging network technologies and industry best practices.
• Contributing to the development of disaster recovery and business continuity plans.
• Managing vendor relationships and ensuring adherence to service level agreements.
• Architecting solutions for high availability and fault tolerance.

This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute from anywhere in the US. The team collaborates extensively using virtual tools, making remote work seamless. While the role is remote, there will be an emphasis on serving our extensive client base and operations across the metropolitan area, including but not limited to Chicago, Illinois, US . We are looking for a visionary leader with a strong analytical mindset and exceptional problem-solving skills. A minimum of 8 years of experience in network engineering and architecture, with at least 3 years in a lead or architect role, is required. Expertise in routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), switching technologies, firewalls, load balancers, and network security is essential. Experience with SDN, NFV, and cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP) is highly desirable. A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required; master's degree or equivalent experience preferred. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for effective collaboration in a remote setting.