Network Architect

• Job Title: Network Architect
• Duration: Long Term 
• Location: San Diego, CA — candidate must be local (not a pure onsite role, but requires frequent office visits)
• Work Arrangement: Hybrid/as-needed onsite — local candidates only
• Rate: TBD — confirm with account team before submitting
• NO C2C

ROLE OVERVIEW
The client is seeking a highly experienced Network Architect to design, architect, and support enterprise networking solutions for clients across multiple industries. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in Cisco networking technologies, solution design, hardware and software licensing, and the ability to develop accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs) and quotes. This person will serve as a trusted advisor to customers and internal stakeholders while supporting complex managed services engagements.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Design and architect Cisco-based networking solutions for enterprise customers
• Lead technical discovery workshops and requirements-gathering sessions
• Develop High-Level Designs (HLDs) and Low-Level Designs (LLDs)
• Create solution BOMs, licensing models, and customer-facing quotations
• Review and approve network designs for scalability, security, and operational supportability
• Provide technical leadership to engineering, operations, and project delivery teams
• Assist network engineers in advanced troubleshooting during high-priority incidents
• Collaborate with Cisco, distributors, and third-party vendors on solution development
• Support RFPs, RFQs, and technical proposal development; participate in customer presentations and executive briefings
REQUIREMENTS / MUST-HAVES
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in network engineering, architecture, and solution design
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a Network Architect or Lead Network Engineer role
• Proven experience designing/implementing enterprise-scale Cisco networking solutions
• Experience working for a Managed Services Provider (MSP) or Master Service Provider supporting enterprise customers
• Expert-level Cisco: Catalyst Switching, Nexus Data Center Switching, Routing, Catalyst SD-WAN, Wireless, ISE, Firepower/Secure Firewall, DNA Center/Catalyst Center; ThousandEyes preferred
• Enterprise LAN/WAN/WiFi and data center networking architecture; cloud connectivity (Azure, AWS, GCP); HA design, segmentation, DR/BC planning
• Required: significant hands-on Cisco quoting and licensing experience — BOM development, hardware sizing, customer-ready quotes, working with Cisco account teams/distributors/partners
• Strong understanding of Cisco licensing models (DNA, Catalyst Center, SD-WAN, Security, subscription-based, Enterprise Agreements)
• Preferred certifications: CCNP Enterprise (required), CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure (preferred), Cisco Certified Specialist, AWS/Azure networking, ITIL Foundation