📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Network Engineer
Company: Highbury Defense Group
Location: San Diego, California, United States
Job Type: On-site
Category: Network Infrastructure
Date Posted: 2025-08-02
Experience Level: 5-10 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves leading complex networking efforts, requiring significant experience and proficiency in military C4I systems and secure operational networks. It demands strong initiative, resourcefulness, and the ability to work independently.
Lead and manage network design processes, working with US Government engineers to set up and configure networks.
Analyze and administer the technical architecture of Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs).
Troubleshoot network issues, restore services, and determine root causes.
Develop and integrate various Cisco products in a network engineering sandbox.
Design and implement complex network solutions.
Investigate and recommend security products, focusing on integration of management and monitoring platforms.
Serve as a networking subject matter expert, providing guidance to engineers, technicians, and IT specialists.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a deep understanding of network infrastructure, protocols, and security, with a focus on supporting Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programs.
Lead the network design process and manage existing networks, collaborating with US Government network engineers, cyber/IA engineers, and other professionals.
Analyze and administer the technical architecture of LANs and WANs.
Troubleshoot network issues, isolate problems, restore services, and determine root causes.
Develop and integrate various Cisco products in a network engineering sandbox.
Design and implement complex network solutions, considering security and performance optimization.
Investigate and recommend security products, focusing on integration of management and monitoring platforms.
Serve as a networking subject matter expert, providing guidance to engineers, technicians, and IT specialists in planning, distributing, coordinating, and monitoring networking work assignments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.

Experience: Five years of Network Engineering experience in the following areas:

Proficient in Cisco network devices, including switches, routers, and firewalls.
Proficient in designing, implementing, and maintaining complex network infrastructures utilizing Cisco products.
Advanced knowledge of TCP/IP, MPLS, OSPF, EIGRP, and DMVPN/mGRE.
Experience using network performance/load testing tools (e.g., Spirent, T-Berd).
Ability to diagnose and resolve network hardware and software problems associated with data center infrastructure.

Required Skills:

Experience with documenting network designs.
Ability to create documents for use in training operations personnel.

Preferred Qualifications:

Active CCNP, CCNP Security, or CCIE certification.
Skilled in implementing network security solutions, including firewalls and intrusion prevention systems.
Familiarity with cybersecurity tools like Splunk, Vectra Networks, and Security Onion.
Deep understanding of IPSEC and 802.1X.
Familiarity with virtualization platforms involving Network Function Virtualization and VMware ESXi or Microsoft Hyper-V.
Strong project management skills, including team building, staff training, and scheduling.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Detailed network diagrams and architecture documentation showcasing your design and implementation skills.
Case studies demonstrating your ability to troubleshoot network issues, restore services, and determine root causes.
Examples of network security solutions you've implemented, including firewalls and intrusion prevention systems.
Documentation of network performance testing and optimization efforts.

Technical Documentation:

Code snippets or scripts used for network configuration and automation.
Version control and deployment processes documentation.
Network monitoring and performance metrics documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $100,000 - $120,000 per year. The listed pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this position and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Other compensation considerations may include job responsibilities, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, or other applicable factors.

Benefits:

Paid Time Off
Paid Company Holidays
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Optional HSA and FSA
Base and Voluntary Life Insurance
Short Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
401k Matching
Employee Assistance Program

Working Hours: Full-time, with up to 25% OCONUS travel required to support integration and testing activities.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense and National Security. Highbury Defense Group, an Accelint company, provides technical, cybersecurity, logistics, and program management support to US Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of State (DoS) agencies and select foreign governments and militaries.

Company Size: Medium to Large. Accelint companies employ a diverse range of professionals, from retired and separated military to seasoned defense contractors to new graduates.

Founded: Accelint was founded in 2002, with Highbury Defense Group established as a subsidiary in 2010.

Team Structure:

Network Engineering team, consisting of senior, mid-level, and junior engineers.
Collaboration with US Government network engineers, cyber/IA engineers, and other professionals.
Cross-functional collaboration with logistics, program management, and other teams.

Development Methodology:

Agile project management methodologies, with a focus on iterative development and continuous improvement.
Collaboration and communication with stakeholders, including US Government agencies and foreign governments.
Regular network performance testing and optimization efforts.

Company Website: Highbury Defense Group

📝 Enhancement Note: Highbury Defense Group operates in a dynamic and challenging environment, requiring adaptability, resourcefulness, and strong communication skills. The company values initiative, innovation, and a commitment to delivering mission-critical solutions to its customers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Network Engineering Career Level: Senior Network Engineer roles involve leading complex networking efforts, requiring significant experience and expertise in military C4I systems and secure operational networks. They demand strong initiative, resourcefulness, and the ability to work independently.

Reporting Structure: Senior Network Engineers typically report directly to the Network Engineering Manager or Director of Engineering. They may oversee mid-level and junior network engineers and provide guidance to other technical teams.

Technical Impact: Senior Network Engineers play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and maintaining secure and reliable network infrastructure for defense and national security missions. Their work directly impacts the ability of military and government personnel to communicate, collaborate, and access critical information.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Growth: Pursue advanced certifications (e.g., CCIE) and specialize in specific network technologies or domains (e.g., network security, data center networking, or software-defined networking).
Leadership Growth: Develop project management, team leadership, and mentoring skills to take on more senior roles within the Network Engineering team or transition into a management or architecture-focused position.
Career Transition: Leverage your extensive network engineering experience to explore opportunities in related fields, such as cybersecurity, IT consulting, or vendor product management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Highbury Defense Group offers opportunities for professional growth and development, with a focus on technical expertise, leadership, and career transition. The company values initiative, innovation, and a commitment to delivering mission-critical solutions to its customers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, with a focus on collaboration, communication, and knowledge sharing among team members and stakeholders.

Office Location(s): San Diego, California, United States. Highbury Defense Group's headquarters are located at 2725 Congress Street #2M, San Diego, CA 92110.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Workspace: Open-plan office spaces designed to facilitate teamwork, communication, and information exchange.
Specialized Workspaces: Dedicated network engineering labs and testing environments for developing, integrating, and testing various Cisco products.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Regular interaction with other technical teams, such as cybersecurity, logistics, and program management, to ensure seamless integration and delivery of mission-critical solutions.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with up to 25% OCONUS travel required to support integration and testing activities. Flexible working hours may be available to accommodate project deadlines and maintenance windows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Highbury Defense Group's work environment emphasizes collaboration, communication, and knowledge sharing, with a focus on delivering mission-critical solutions to its customers. The company offers opportunities for professional growth and development, with a commitment to technical expertise, leadership, and career transition.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Technical Phone Screen: A brief phone or video call to assess your technical proficiency and cultural fit with the Highbury Defense Group team.
On-Site Technical Interview: A full-day on-site interview consisting of:
- Technical deep dive into your network engineering experience, focusing on your understanding of Cisco products, network protocols, and troubleshooting skills.
- Case study or scenario-based exercises to evaluate your ability to design, implement, and maintain complex network solutions.
- Behavioral and situational interviews to assess your problem-solving skills, initiative, and resourcefulness.
Final Review: A final review of your application materials, technical assessment, and cultural fit with the Highbury Defense Group team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your network design, implementation, and troubleshooting skills through detailed network diagrams, case studies, and documentation.
Demonstrate your understanding of network security principles and best practices, including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and secure network design.
Showcase your ability to work collaboratively with other technical teams, stakeholders, and US Government agencies.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your knowledge of Cisco products, network protocols, and troubleshooting techniques.
Familiarize yourself with the Highbury Defense Group company culture, mission, and values.
Prepare for case study or scenario-based exercises by practicing network design, implementation, and troubleshooting scenarios.

ATS Keywords: [List of relevant ATS keywords, organized by category]

📝 Enhancement Note: Highbury Defense Group's application and interview process focuses on assessing your technical proficiency, problem-solving skills, initiative, and cultural fit with the company. The company values technical expertise, collaboration, and a commitment to delivering mission-critical solutions to its customers.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Networking Technologies:

Cisco network devices (routers, switches, firewalls)
Cisco network management platforms (e.g., Cisco Prime, Cisco DNA Center)
Network protocols (TCP/IP, MPLS, OSPF, EIGRP, DMVPN/mGRE)
Network performance/load testing tools (e.g., Spirent, T-Berd)

Security Technologies:

Firewalls (e.g., Cisco ASA, Palo Alto Networks)
Intrusion prevention systems (e.g., Snort, Suricata)
Cybersecurity tools (e.g., Splunk, Vectra Networks, Security Onion)

Virtualization Platforms:

Network Function Virtualization (NFV)
VMware ESXi or Microsoft Hyper-V

Project Management Tools:

Agile project management methodologies (e.g., Scrum, Kanban)
Collaboration and communication tools (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack)

📝 Enhancement Note: Highbury Defense Group's technology stack focuses on Cisco networking products, with an emphasis on security, performance, and scalability. The company values technical expertise, collaboration, and a commitment to delivering mission-critical solutions to its customers.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Network Engineering Values:

Expertise: Demonstrate a deep understanding of network infrastructure, protocols, and security principles.
Innovation: Continuously seek out new technologies, best practices, and optimization techniques to improve network performance and security.
Collaboration: Work effectively with other technical teams, stakeholders, and US Government agencies to deliver mission-critical solutions.
Adaptability: Remain flexible and responsive to changing customer requirements, technologies, and network environments.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with other technical teams, such as cybersecurity, logistics, and program management, to ensure seamless integration and delivery of mission-critical solutions.
Knowledge Sharing: Actively participate in team meetings, training sessions, and mentoring opportunities to share your expertise and learn from your colleagues.
Mentoring: Provide guidance and support to junior network engineers, helping them develop their technical skills and advance their careers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Highbury Defense Group's network engineering team values expertise, innovation, collaboration, and adaptability. The company fosters a culture of knowledge sharing, mentoring, and continuous learning to support the professional growth and development of its team members.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Design, implement, and maintain secure and reliable network infrastructure for defense and national security missions.
Troubleshoot complex network issues, restore services, and determine root causes in high-pressure, time-sensitive environments.
Integrate and manage network security solutions, including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and secure network design principles.
Collaborate with US Government engineers, stakeholders, and other technical teams to deliver mission-critical solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: Pursue advanced certifications (e.g., CCIE) and specialize in specific network technologies or domains (e.g., network security, data center networking, or software-defined networking).
Leadership Development: Develop project management, team leadership, and mentoring skills to take on more senior roles within the Network Engineering team or transition into a management or architecture-focused position.
Career Transition: Leverage your extensive network engineering experience to explore opportunities in related fields, such as cybersecurity, IT consulting, or vendor product management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Highbury Defense Group offers opportunities for professional growth and development, with a focus on technical expertise, leadership, and career transition. The company values initiative, innovation, and a commitment to delivering mission-critical solutions to its customers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Cisco Products: Describe your experience with Cisco network devices, including switches, routers, and firewalls. Provide examples of network design, implementation, and troubleshooting scenarios involving Cisco products.
Network Protocols: Explain your understanding of network protocols, such as TCP/IP, MPLS, OSPF, EIGRP, and DMVPN/mGRE. Discuss your experience with network performance/load testing tools (e.g., Spirent, T-Berd).
Network Security: Demonstrate your knowledge of network security principles and best practices, including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and secure network design. Discuss your experience with cybersecurity tools like Splunk, Vectra Networks, and Security Onion.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Culture: Describe what you understand about Highbury Defense Group's company culture, mission, and values. Discuss how your personal values and work style align with the company's culture.
Team Collaboration: Explain your experience working with other technical teams, stakeholders, and US Government agencies. Discuss your approach to collaboration, communication, and knowledge sharing in a team environment.
Problem-Solving: Provide examples of complex network issues you've faced in previous roles and how you approached troubleshooting, restoration, and root cause analysis. Discuss your ability to work independently and make decisions under pressure.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Network Diagrams: Prepare detailed network diagrams and architecture documentation showcasing your design and implementation skills.
Case Studies: Develop case studies demonstrating your ability to troubleshoot network issues, restore services, and determine root causes. Highlight your understanding of network security principles and best practices.
Technical Deep Dive: Prepare a technical deep dive into your network engineering experience, focusing on your understanding of Cisco products, network protocols, and troubleshooting techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: Highbury Defense Group's interview process focuses on assessing your technical proficiency, problem-solving skills, initiative, and cultural fit with the company. The company values technical expertise, collaboration, and a commitment to delivering mission-critical solutions to its customers.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Network Engineer position at Highbury Defense Group:

Submit your application through the application link provided on the job listing.
Prepare a comprehensive portfolio showcasing your network design, implementation, and troubleshooting skills through detailed network diagrams, case studies, and documentation.
Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant network engineering experience, skills, and accomplishments.
Research Highbury Defense Group's company culture, mission, and values to ensure a strong cultural fit and alignment with your personal values and work style.
Prepare for the technical phone screen, on-site technical interview, and final review by brushing up on your knowledge of Cisco products, network protocols, and troubleshooting techniques. Familiarize yourself with the company's technology stack, security principles, and best practices.

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

Senior Network Engineer