IT Network Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking an IT Network Engineer (IT Network Engineer Staff IV/V) to architect and implement cutting-edge Enterprise LAN, WAN, and Data Center network infrastructure in an all-Cisco environment. Our enterprise networks span 24 sites nationwide, with primary hubs in El Segundo, CA; Chantilly, VA; and Colorado Springs, CO.

In this role, you'll join a team of highly skilled network engineers, firewall engineers, and network services engineers supporting both Corporate classified and unclassified networks. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact on mission-critical infrastructure supporting national security initiatives.

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, onsite at our location in Chantilly, VA.

What You'll Be Doing

• Architect next-generation networks: Design and implement high-availability enterprise WAN solutions utilizing SDWAN technology (Cisco SDWAN/IWAN, ASR/ISR Routers, Cisco Firewalls) with dual WAN links (MPLS & Internet)
• Build scalable data center infrastructure: Design and deploy high-availability, scalable data center networks leveraging Cisco SDN technologies (ACI, Nexus Dashboard)
• Ensure robust security: Develop secure network segments (enclaves, DMZs) using Cisco Firepower Firewalls, Cisco ASA Firewalls, and other advanced Cisco network security products
• Innovate in our DevOps lab: Perform setup, configuration, and testing of network designs in our state-of-the-art DevOps lab located in El Segundo
• Lead strategic initiatives: Coordinate with network staff on implementation tasks and schedules, ensuring project milestones and deadlines are met
• Partner with stakeholders: Interface directly with the user community to understand connectivity requirements and collaborate on design solutions, implementation costs, and annual operations budgets
• Drive fiscal planning: Assist in developing Network Services Department fiscal year budget requests for capital expenditures, overhead, and maintenance
• Stay ahead of the curve: Track industry trends and maintain expertise in emerging technologies

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for IT Network Engineer Staff IV:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field AND 10+ years of professional experience with all aspects of enterprise CONUS network operations
• Active TS/SCI clearance (issued by the US government; US citizenship required)
• Demonstrated expertise in Cisco SDWAN/IWAN technology and network automation
• Expert-level experience with Cisco ACI and Nexus Data Center switches
• Extensive hands-on experience with firewall theory, design, and configuration
• Deep knowledge of Cisco ASA and Firepower firewalls
• Experience with Cisco Catalyst Center/DNA Center
• CompTIA Security+ CE or CISSP certification (DoD 8570 requirements)

In addition to the above, IT Network Engineer Staff V candidates must have:

• 15+ years of professional experience with all aspects of enterprise CONUS network operations
• Experience troubleshooting and configuring KG-175F and other encryption devices
• Proven experience working with and troubleshooting EIGRP and BGP routed network deployments

How You Can Stand Out

We'd be especially impressed if you have one or more of these:

• 15+ years of relevant experience with a Bachelor's degree
• Cisco CCIE or CCNP Enterprise certification
• Hands-on experience with Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers
• TS/SCI/SSBI clearance (already active)

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change   
• Engage with Impact   
• Foster Innovation   
• Deliver Results  

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include:

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

• Flexible spending accounts

• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

• Relocation assistance

• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

• Education assistance programs

• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.