Network Operations Lead

TL;DR

Network Operations Lead (Zero Trust Networks): Overseeing operation, performance, and security of enterprise network environments across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid setups with an accent on Zero Trust enforcement, secure connectivity, and federal compliance. Focus on leading network ops activities, incident response, change management, and ITSM integration.

Location: Washington, DC (onsite, federal client, Public Trust clearance required)

Company

Award-winning IT and financial management consulting firm serving federal clients with a focus on world-class services and employee growth.

What you will do

• Lead network operations for enterprise LAN/WAN, firewalls, wireless, and secure access platforms including Cisco, Palo Alto, Zscaler, and Aruba.
• Ensure alignment with Zero Trust principles through identity-aware access, segmentation, and continuous monitoring.
• Oversee incident monitoring, response, resolution, and participation in major incident bridges.
• Coordinate change management, firewall policy lifecycle, and integration with ServiceNow ITSM processes.
• Monitor and optimize network performance, availability, and capacity while tracking SLAs and KPIs.
• Develop documentation, support disaster recovery, and drive continuous improvements across teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent + 10+ years IT experience, 5+ in network ops/engineering
• Demonstrated experience with enterprise networks, Cisco routing/switching, Palo Alto firewalls, Zscaler, Aruba wireless.
• Strong knowledge of Zero Trust, network segmentation, secure access, monitoring, incident response, and performance optimization.
• Experience with change management (ERB/CCB) and ServiceNow ITSM.
• Eligibility for federal Public Trust clearance
• Strong communication, problem-solving, organizational skills.

Nice to have

• Certifications: Cisco CCNP/CCIE, Palo Alto PCNSE, Zscaler, ITIL v4.
• Experience in federal IT, Zero Trust implementations, hybrid cloud (Azure/M365), disaster recovery.
• Familiarity with monitoring tools (SNMP, NetFlow, Syslog) and ServiceNow integrations.
• Past federal agency or network experience.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive salaries and generous PTO with federal holidays.
• Full health benefits: medical, dental, vision, life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan and professional development support.
• Team building events in an energizing, diverse culture valuing autonomy and excellence.