Network Architecture Manager

Location: On-site in Covington, LA with a strong preference for local candidates (relocation may be considered).

Schedule: On-call rotation approximately once every six weeks.

Innovative leader in space-based telecommunications needs an expert to architect and advance its high-stakes network infrastructure. This role combines technical mastery with leadership acumen, driving key network initiatives, setting technical excellence benchmarks, and safeguarding the reliability and integrity of a far-reaching, globally dispersed network ecosystem.

This role offers the rare opportunity to make a significant impact - both as a hands-on contributor and as a mentor to a growing team. You'll work in a dynamic setting where innovation meets reliability, leading the charge on next-gen networking and cloud connectivity initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate a team of network engineers, ensuring effective delegation, performance feedback, and productivity.
• Architect and oversee deployment of complex networking solutions across enterprise environments, including LAN/WAN, firewalls, VPNs, and cloud connectivity.
• Manage high-priority projects, balancing timelines, budgets, and resources with multiple stakeholders and vendors.
• Monitor network performance, ensure high availability, and serve as escalation point for critical incidents.
• Optimize network configurations and lead capacity planning for future growth and scalability.
• Maintain up-to-date documentation, disaster recovery protocols, and compliance with regulatory and internal standards.
• Support integration with adjacent teams in cybersecurity, DevOps, and infrastructure engineering.
• Evaluate and recommend emerging networking technologies and tools to drive innovation.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in enterprise network engineering with deep knowledge of Cisco technologies (Catalyst/Nexus series).
• 5+ years of experience driving technical teams and projects.
• Strong grasp of core networking protocols and services (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, STP, LACP).
• Demonstrated experience with enterprise firewalls and security platforms (Fortinet, Cisco ASA, Check Point).
• Familiarity with cloud networking strategies and tools (AWS, Azure, hybrid models).
• Proficiency with monitoring platforms such as SolarWinds or Kentik.
•  Active CCNP and PMP certifications required.

Preferred Experience

• Prior involvement with network automation (Python, Ansible) and infrastructure-as-code practices.
• Hands-on experience with SD-WAN architectures and vendor solutions.
• Exposure to DevOps environments, especially related to network/cloud integration.
• Additional certifications such as CCIE, AWS Certified Advanced Networking, or Azure Network Engineer are a plus.

What’s in It for You

Competitive base salary with potential flexibility for top performers.

Strong benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement matching, and more.

Join a team committed to technical excellence and building next-generation solutions in communications technology.

About Blue Signal:  

Blue Signal is an award-winning, executive search firm specializing in various specialties. Our recruiters have a proven track record of placing top-tier talent across industry verticals, with deep expertise in numerous professional services. Learn more at bit.ly/46Gs4yS