Network Architect

About the Opportunity

JOB SUMMARY

Northeastern University is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Network Architect to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for architecting, designing, and documenting our network infrastructure to ensure optimal performance, security, and scalability. This role requires a deep understanding of network architecture, protocols, and technologies, as well as strong problem-solving and communication skills.

This role is hybrid and in the office a minimum of three days a week to facilitate collaboration and teamwork. In-office presence is an essential part of our on-campus culture and allows for engaging directly with staff and students, sharing ideas, and contributing to a dynamic work environment. Being on-site allows for stronger connections, more effective problem-solving, and enhanced team synergy, all of which are key to achieving our collective goals and driving success.

*Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University is unable to work sponsor for this role, now or in the future

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field.  Minimum of 5 years of experience in network architecture and design. 

• Strong architectural knowledge of network routing and switching protocols such as BGP, EVPN, and VXLAN. 

• Strong architectural knowledge of wireless LAN architecture and deployment. 

• Strong architectural knowledge of network automation. 

• Architectural experience with network hardware, including routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, IPAM, and wireless. 

• Strong architectural knowledge of network monitoring and management systems. 

• Strong working knowledge of cloud networking. 

• Strong working knowledge of infrastructure systems (network closet standards and fiber plant deployment). 

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.  Strong communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Relevant certifications, such as JNCIE-ENT, JNCIP-MistAI, CCIE routing, and CCIE wireless, are highly desirable.

24/7 business continuity:

• This role requires occasional availability outside of traditional working hours to address urgent business needs as they arise, including, but not limited to, responding to security incidents, supporting software deployments, resolving software issues or system breaks, and addressing other critical operational requirements.

• The ideal candidate must be proactive and adaptable, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations by promptly addressing any issues, regardless of time or day.

• Flexibility and a strong sense of urgency are essential for success in this position.

 Other duties as required:

• This role requires flexibility in performing duties outside of the primary responsibilities to support evolving business needs. The ideal candidate must be adaptable and willing to take on additional tasks or projects as required, ensuring smooth operations across the organization. This may include stepping in to assist with cross-functional teams, handling unexpected challenges, or contributing to initiatives that support business growth and success. A proactive mindset and the ability to pivot quickly are essential for thriving in this dynamic environment.

Hybrid work schedule:

This role is hybrid and in the office three days a week to facilitate collaboration and teamwork. In-office presence is an essential part of our on-campus culture and allows for engaging directly with staff and students, sharing ideas, and contributing to a dynamic work environment. Being on-site allows for stronger connections, more effective problem-solving, and enhanced team synergy, all of which are key to achieving our collective goals and driving success.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES

Architecture Development 40%

Develop architectures across all services and platforms that coherently interoperate as a single ecosystem across all campuses for the following services:

• • Campus LAN

  • Campus Wireless

  • Global Network Interconnectivity

  • IP Management

  • Network Security

  • Data Centers

  • Load Balancing

  • Research Network

Network security technologies 20%

Develop architecturally integrated network security technologies and mitigation approaches that meet policies solicited from the Information Security Office. Integrate those policy requirements into a university-wide network architecture and design standard which may include network hardware such as firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems.

Migration Plans 20%

• Develop technology migration plan(s) to seamlessly move to new architectures with minimal disruption to user community

• Develop a holistic monitoring and reporting paradigm that is integral with new architectures that enhances efficiency and effectiveness of network operations mission.

Network Solutions 20%

• Collaborate with IT and other departments to integrate network solutions with existing systems and applications.

• Develop and maintain network architecture and standard design documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and procedures with annotation to clearly explain and provide details of architecture and designs that can be executed upon by others in the network team.

• Provide mentorship to design and operational engineers as well as providing guidance to other IT team members and stakeholders.

Position Type

Information Technology

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

113S

Expected Hiring Range:

$112,180.00 - $162,662.50

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.