Lead Network Engineer

Lead Network Engineer – Cloud & Infrastructure Automation (Hybrid, Chicago)

Are you passionate about designing and running enterprise-grade networks that power business-critical systems? We're looking for an experienced
Lead Network Engineer
who thrives at the intersection of networking and automation. In this role, you'll help architect and maintain a resilient, secure, and scalable global network spanning both on-prem and cloud environments.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on engineering, forward-thinking design, and close collaboration across teams to deliver robust, high-performing connectivity solutions.

What You'll Do

• Design, implement, and support enterprise network environments across data centres and cloud platforms.
• Configure and optimize routing, switching, firewalls, load balancers, and related systems.
• Contribute to the evolution of hybrid networking strategies, ensuring alignment with security and governance standards.
• Lead technical troubleshooting for complex issues in collaboration with vendors and internal teams.
• Develop and maintain documentation, implementation plans, and architecture roadmaps.
• Participate in on-call rotations to ensure network reliability and continuity.

What You Bring

• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical topics for diverse audiences.
• A collaborative mindset with a focus on solving problems pragmatically and efficiently.
• Experience leading initiatives and mentoring peers in fast-moving environments.

Technical Skills & Experience

• Proven expertise with
  automation and DevOps tools
  such as Terraform, Ansible, Jenkins, and GitHub.
• Solid understanding of
  Infrastructure-as-Code
  concepts and implementation.
• Hands-on experience managing
  cloud networking
  (AWS preferred; Azure or GCP welcome).
• Deep knowledge of
  Layer 3 routing and switching
  , including protocols like BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP.
• Practical experience with
  Cisco technologies
  (IOS, NX-OS, XR).
• Familiarity with DNS/IPAM, VPNs, NAC, firewalls, DDoS mitigation, and packet analysis.
• Experience with
  Cisco ACI
  is a must.
• Background supporting
  mainframe and storage networking
  environments is required.

Why You'll Love Working Here

• Competitive salary:
  $140K–$170K
• 15% annual bonus
• 22 days of PTO
  plus paid holidays
• 6% 401(k) match
• Comprehensive
  health, vision, dental, and life insurance
• Hybrid schedule –
  Dallas-based
  (office presence required)
• Please note:
  Visa sponsorship is not available
  for this position.