Lead Network Engineer - DNS

📍 Job Overview

• Job Title: Lead Network Engineer - DNS
• Company: Vanguard
• Location: Wayne, PA (with remote/hybrid options for other locations)
• Job Type: Full-Time
• Category: DevOps/Infrastructure
• Date Posted: June 11, 2025

🚀 Role Summary

• DNS Infrastructure Leadership: Design, implement, and maintain DNS infrastructure, ensuring high availability, security, and performance.
• Collaboration & Cross-Functional Teamwork: Work closely with network operations teams to align DNS services with business objectives and drive the DNS hosting and product roadmap strategy.
• Problem-Solving & Optimization: Monitor DNS performance, identify bottlenecks, and optimize services for improved performance and reliability.
• Emerging Technologies & Best Practices: Stay up-to-date with emerging DNS technologies, trends, and best practices, and incorporate them into the DNS environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong technical leader with a deep understanding of DNS protocols, server software, and network architecture. The ideal candidate will have experience in DNS engineering, network engineering, or a related field and be capable of driving the direction of the DNS hosting and product roadmap strategy.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

• DNS Infrastructure Management:

  • Design, implement, and maintain DNS infrastructure, including DNS servers, DNSSEC, and DNS load balancing.
  • Configure and troubleshoot DNS zones, records, and delegations.
  • Ensure DNS security, including DNSSEC, DNS amplification attacks, and DNS tunneling.

• Collaboration & Strategy:

  • Collaborate with network operations teams to ensure DNS services align with business objectives.
  • Drive the direction of the DNS hosting and product roadmap strategy, in collaboration with architects.

• Performance Optimization & Monitoring:

  • Monitor DNS performance, identify bottlenecks, and optimize DNS services for improved performance.
  • Develop and implement DNS disaster recovery and business continuity plans.

• Problem-Solving & Support:

  • Troubleshoot DNS-related issues and participate in team on-call rotations.
  • Stay up-to-date with emerging DNS technologies, trends, and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure. The ideal candidate will have experience in DNS engineering, network engineering, or a related field and be capable of making critical decisions in high-pressure situations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Networking, or a related field.

Experience: At least 5 years of experience in DNS engineering, network engineering, or a related field.

Required Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of DNS protocols (DNS, DNSSEC, EDNS), DNS server software (BIND, PowerDNS, Microsoft DNS, FRR), DNS management tools, and DNS routing techniques.
• Strong understanding of network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, ICMP) and network architecture.
• Experience with scripting languages (Python, Perl, Bash) and automation tools (Ansible, Terraform).
• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure.

Preferred Skills:

• DNS-related certifications (e.g., Certified DNS Engineer).
• Experience with cloud-based DNS services (e.g., Amazon Route 53, Google Cloud DNS).
• Knowledge of emerging DNS technologies (e.g., DNS over HTTPS, DNS over TLS).
• Experience with DNS security, including DNSSEC, DNS amplification attacks, and DNS tunneling.
• Experience with DevOps practices and tools (e.g., Git).

📝 Enhancement Note: While not strictly required, having relevant certifications and experience with emerging DNS technologies can demonstrate a strong commitment to professional development and staying current with industry trends.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience in DNS infrastructure design, implementation, and maintenance through relevant projects and case studies.
• Showcase problem-solving skills and ability to optimize DNS performance through specific examples.
• Highlight experience with DNS security, including DNSSEC, DNS amplification attacks, and DNS tunneling.
• Display proficiency in scripting languages (Python, Perl, Bash) and automation tools (Ansible, Terraform) through code samples or live demonstrations.

Technical Documentation:

• Prepare a comprehensive document outlining your approach to DNS infrastructure management, including security measures, performance optimization techniques, and disaster recovery plans.
• Include examples of DNS troubleshooting, problem-solving, and optimization strategies from previous projects.
• Highlight your understanding of network protocols, DNS server software, and DNS management tools through detailed explanations and use cases.

📝 Enhancement Note: As this role focuses on DNS infrastructure management, your portfolio should emphasize your technical expertise in DNS protocols, server software, and network architecture. Include examples of complex DNS environments you've managed and the challenges you've overcome.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 per year (based on experience and location)

Benefits:

• Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with company match.
• Generous time-off policies, including vacation, sick time, and holidays.
• Employee stock purchase plan.
• Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities.
• Employee discounts on Vanguard products and services.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexibility for on-call rotations and maintenance windows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is based on industry standards for network engineering roles and regional cost of living. Vanguard offers a comprehensive benefits package to support the well-being and professional growth of its employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services

Company Size: Large (over 20,000 employees)

Founded: 1975

Team Structure:

• The DNS team is part of the broader Network Engineering group, which consists of multiple sub-teams focusing on different aspects of network infrastructure.
• The team works closely with network operations teams, architects, and other stakeholders to ensure DNS services align with business objectives and drive the DNS hosting and product roadmap strategy.
• The team follows Agile methodologies, with regular sprint planning, code reviews, and quality assurance practices.

Development Methodology:

• The team follows Agile/Scrum methodologies, with regular sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and sprint retrospectives.
• Code reviews and pair programming are encouraged to ensure code quality and knowledge sharing.
• Deployment strategies include continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, with automated testing and monitoring tools in place.

Company Website: Vanguard

📝 Enhancement Note: Vanguard is a large, established financial services company with a strong focus on innovation and client-centered culture. The company values collaboration, continuous learning, and driving meaningful change in the financial services industry.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Senior/Lead

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Manager of Network Engineering and has no direct reports.

Technical Impact: The Lead Network Engineer - DNS plays a critical role in ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of Vanguard's DNS infrastructure. Their decisions and actions directly impact the user experience and overall performance of Vanguard's web applications and services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Growth: Deepen expertise in DNS technologies, network architecture, and emerging trends in network engineering.
• Leadership Development: Gain experience in driving strategic initiatives and collaborating with cross-functional teams to align DNS services with business objectives.
• Architecture & Design: Contribute to the design and implementation of Vanguard's DNS hosting and product roadmap strategy, working closely with architects and other stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for technical growth and leadership development. The ideal candidate will be eager to take on new challenges, stay current with emerging technologies, and drive strategic initiatives that enhance Vanguard's DNS infrastructure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid (onsite and remote work options available)

Office Location(s):

• Wayne, PA (onsite)
• Scottsdale, AZ (onsite)
• Charlotte, NC (onsite)
• Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX (onsite)

Workspace Context:

• The onsite workspace is designed to facilitate collaboration and learning, with multiple monitors, testing devices, and comfortable workspaces available.
• The team encourages knowledge sharing, technical mentoring, and continuous learning, with regular training sessions, workshops, and brown bag lunches.
• The work schedule is flexible, with a focus on delivering results and maintaining work-life balance.

Work Schedule: 40 hours per week, with flexibility for on-call rotations and maintenance windows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vanguard offers a flexible, collaborative work environment that supports the professional growth and well-being of its employees. The company values work-life balance and provides employees with the tools and resources they need to succeed.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

1. Phone Screen: A brief conversation to assess communication skills, cultural fit, and initial technical competency.
2. Technical Deep Dive: A comprehensive technical discussion focused on DNS protocols, server software, network architecture, and problem-solving skills.
3. Behavioral & Situational Questions: An in-depth exploration of your problem-solving approach, decision-making processes, and ability to work under pressure.
4. Final Interview: A conversation with the hiring manager and other key stakeholders to assess cultural fit, career goals, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight your experience in DNS infrastructure management, including design, implementation, and maintenance.
• Include examples of complex DNS environments you've managed and the challenges you've overcome.
• Showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to optimize DNS performance through specific examples.
• Demonstrate your understanding of DNS security, including DNSSEC, DNS amplification attacks, and DNS tunneling.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

• Brush up on your knowledge of DNS protocols, server software, and network architecture.
• Practice explaining complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.
• Prepare for behavioral and situational questions by reflecting on your past experiences and the lessons you've learned.

ATS Keywords: DNS, DNSSEC, EDNS, BIND, PowerDNS, Microsoft DNS, FRR, network protocols, network architecture, scripting, automation, problem-solving, attention to detail, cloud-based DNS services, DevOps, network engineering, DNS management tools, emerging DNS technologies, DNS security, DNS amplification attacks, DNS tunneling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is designed to assess your technical competency, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your experience in DNS infrastructure management, network architecture, and emerging DNS technologies in detail.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

DNS Infrastructure:

• DNS servers: BIND, PowerDNS, Microsoft DNS, FRR
• DNS management tools: Vanguard's proprietary tools, third-party tools (e.g., Infoblox, BlueCat)
• DNS routing techniques: Anycast, Unicast, Multicast

Network Infrastructure:

• Network protocols: TCP/IP, UDP, ICMP
• Network architecture: Vanguard's proprietary network design, industry-standard best practices
• Network management tools: Vanguard's proprietary tools, third-party tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Nagios)

Automation & Scripting:

• Scripting languages: Python, Perl, Bash
• Automation tools: Ansible, Terraform, Vanguard's proprietary tools

Monitoring & Alerting:

• Monitoring tools: Vanguard's proprietary tools, third-party tools (e.g., Prometheus, Grafana)
• Alerting tools: Vanguard's proprietary tools, third-party tools (e.g., PagerDuty, OpsGenie)

📝 Enhancement Note: Vanguard uses a combination of proprietary and third-party tools to manage its DNS and network infrastructure. Familiarity with these tools and a willingness to learn new technologies are essential for success in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Vanguard's Core Values:

• Put clients first.
• Know your client.
• Be consistent.
• Reach for excellence.
• Act with integrity.

DNS Team Values:

• Expertise: Demonstrate a deep understanding of DNS protocols, server software, and network architecture.
• Collaboration: Work closely with network operations teams, architects, and other stakeholders to ensure DNS services align with business objectives.
• Innovation: Stay up-to-date with emerging DNS technologies, trends, and best practices, and incorporate them into the DNS environment.
• Reliability: Ensure high availability, security, and performance of Vanguard's DNS infrastructure.
• Continuous Learning: Foster a culture of knowledge sharing, technical mentoring, and continuous learning.

Collaboration Style:

• The DNS team encourages open communication, active listening, and constructive feedback.
• The team follows Agile methodologies, with regular sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and sprint retrospectives.
• The team values cross-functional collaboration, with regular interactions with network operations teams, architects, and other stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vanguard's culture is built on a foundation of client-centered values, with a strong emphasis on expertise, collaboration, and continuous learning. The DNS team embodies these values, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing, technical mentoring, and innovation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

• DNS Scalability: Design and implement DNS infrastructure that can scale to meet Vanguard's growing client base and service offerings.
• DNS Security: Ensure the security of Vanguard's DNS infrastructure, including DNSSEC, DNS amplification attacks, and DNS tunneling.
• Emerging Technologies: Stay up-to-date with emerging DNS technologies, trends, and best practices, and incorporate them into the DNS environment.
• Performance Optimization: Monitor DNS performance, identify bottlenecks, and optimize DNS services for improved performance and reliability.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Development: Deepen expertise in DNS technologies, network architecture, and emerging trends in network engineering.
• Leadership Development: Gain experience in driving strategic initiatives and collaborating with cross-functional teams to align DNS services with business objectives.
• Architecture & Design: Contribute to the design and implementation of Vanguard's DNS hosting and product roadmap strategy, working closely with architects and other stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant technical challenges and opportunities for growth. The ideal candidate will be eager to take on new challenges, stay current with emerging technologies, and drive strategic initiatives that enhance Vanguard's DNS infrastructure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

• DNS Protocols: Explain the difference between DNS, DNSSEC, and EDNS. Describe the DNS query process and the role of DNS servers in the DNS ecosystem.
• DNS Server Software: Compare and contrast BIND, PowerDNS, Microsoft DNS, and FRR. Describe the strengths and weaknesses of each server software and discuss their use cases.
• DNS Management Tools: Discuss the importance of DNS management tools in ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of DNS infrastructure. Describe your experience with Vanguard's proprietary tools and third-party tools (e.g., Infoblox, BlueCat).
• DNS Routing Techniques: Explain the difference between Anycast, Unicast, and Multicast. Describe the use cases for each routing technique and discuss their trade-offs.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Vanguard's Core Values: Explain how Vanguard's core values (Put clients first, Know your client, Be consistent, Reach for excellence, Act with integrity) apply to your approach to DNS infrastructure management.
• DNS Team Values: Describe how the DNS team's values (Expertise, Collaboration, Innovation, Reliability, Continuous Learning) influence your approach to DNS infrastructure management and your interactions with other teams.
• DNS Team Collaboration: Discuss your experience working with cross-functional teams, including network operations teams, architects, and other stakeholders. Describe how you ensure DNS services align with business objectives and drive the DNS hosting and product roadmap strategy.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• DNS Infrastructure Case Studies: Prepare detailed case studies of your experience in DNS infrastructure design, implementation, and maintenance. Highlight the challenges you faced and the solutions you implemented to ensure high availability, security, and performance.
• DNS Troubleshooting & Optimization: Include specific examples of DNS troubleshooting, problem-solving, and optimization strategies from previous projects. Describe your approach to identifying bottlenecks and optimizing DNS services for improved performance.
• DNS Security: Highlight your experience with DNS security, including DNSSEC, DNS amplification attacks, and DNS tunneling. Describe your approach to ensuring the security of Vanguard's DNS infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is designed to assess your technical competency, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your experience in DNS infrastructure management, network architecture, and emerging DNS technologies in detail.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Network Engineer - DNS position at Vanguard:

1. Review the Job Description: Carefully read and understand the job requirements, responsibilities, and qualifications outlined in this enhanced job description.
2. Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your relevant experience in DNS engineering, network engineering, or a related field. Emphasize your expertise in DNS protocols, server software, network architecture, and problem-solving skills.
3. Prepare Your Portfolio: Include specific examples of your experience in DNS infrastructure design, implementation, and maintenance. Highlight your problem-solving skills, ability to optimize DNS performance, and understanding of DNS security.
4. Research Vanguard: Familiarize yourself with Vanguard's core values, company culture, and the DNS team's values. Prepare for interview questions that assess your cultural fit and alignment with Vanguard's mission and values.
5. Practice Technical Interview Questions: Brush up on your knowledge of DNS protocols, server software, network architecture, and emerging DNS technologies. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.
6. Prepare for Behavioral & Situational Questions: Reflect on your past experiences and the lessons you've learned. Prepare for interview questions that assess your problem-solving approach, decision-making processes, and ability to work under pressure.
7. Apply Online: Submit your application through the application link provided on the Vanguard careers website.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.