Network Automation Subject Matter Expert
Alexandria, VA

IT Veterans is currently seeking a Network Automation Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the modernization and automation of enterprise networking for a mission-critical federal program. This role requires deep technical expertise in automating network infrastructure, scripting, and orchestration, as well as a strong foundation in traditional networking, particularly with Juniper and/or Cisco technologies.

The SME will provide Tier 3/4-level support to engineering teams, serve as a trusted advisor for network automation strategies, and work closely with infrastructure teams to drive the design and implementation of Infrastructure as Code (IaC) solutions.

Responsibilities:

Provide expert-level support and guidance in network automation, orchestration, and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) principles.
Develop, maintain, and optimize automation scripts and playbooks (e.g., Python, Ansible) for provisioning, configuration, and monitoring of network infrastructure.
Integrate automation solutions with network APIs and management platforms.
Support the transition from manual network operations to automated workflows in collaboration with system architects and engineers.
Assist with network configuration compliance, drift detection, and version control using Git-based workflows.
Participate in architectural discussions and technical reviews to ensure automation aligns with mission requirements and cybersecurity standards.
Troubleshoot complex network automation issues and mentor junior engineers on best practices.
Document processes, playbooks, and automation pipelines for repeatability and knowledge transfer.

Required Qualifications:

Active TS/SCI clearance.
Must possess current DoD 8570 IAT II certification and CCNP, JNCIP, or equivalent.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field (an additional four years of experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree).
Minimum of eight (8) years of relevant experience, in addition to educational qualifications.
In-depth knowledge of Cisco and/or Juniper networking platforms.
Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and version control.
Experience with REST APIs and network management protocols.
Strong understanding of routing and switching fundamentals.
Proven ability to design and implement scalable, secure automation solutions in production environments.
Experience developing network architectures using both COTS and open-source automation platforms, supporting both vendor-specific and vendor-agnostic environments.
Proficiency with open-source automation tools, including:
- Python-based API servers (e.g., Flask, uWSGI)
- Diagnostic and provisioning tools such as Ansible, NAPALM, and PyEZ
Hands-on experience with COTS automation platforms, such as:
- GitLab for automation workflows and API services
- Cisco NSO, and Juniper Paragon Automation Suite
Experience integrating automation tools with IT Service Management (ITSM) platforms like ServiceNow and IP address management systems such as Infoblox via APIs.
Experience working in multi-vendor environments, specifically involving Juniper, Cisco, and Arista networking platforms.

Preferred Qualifications:

Certifications such as Cisco DevNet, JNCIA-DevOps, CCNP/CCIE, or equivalent.
Experience working in a DoD or Intelligence Community (IC) environment.
Background in Agile or DevSecOps practices.

At IT Veterans LLC, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We believe that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success.