Lead Network Engineer - Routing & Switching

Description :Job Summary :We are looking for a highly skilled and experienced Lead Network Engineer to drive the design, architecture, implementation, and governance of enterprise and data center network infrastructure. This role requires a strong technical expert with proven leadership capabilities to manage complex network environments, lead strategic initiatives, and ensure high availability, security, and scalability of network systems across the organization.Key Responsibilities :- Lead end-to-end network architecture, design, and deployment for enterprise, data center, and WAN environments.- Define network strategy, standards, and best practices aligned with business objectives.- Oversee large-scale network transformation projects, upgrades, and migrations with minimal downtime.- Provide technical leadership in configuring and managing routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, and wireless infrastructure.- Ensure high availability, redundancy, scalability, and performance of network systems.- Drive network security initiatives including firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, zero-trust, and access control frameworks.- Lead advanced troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and resolution of critical network incidents.- Establish and manage network monitoring, alerting, and performance optimization processes.- Collaborate with cloud, security, infrastructure, and application teams for integrated solutions.- Mentor, guide, and develop network engineering teams; enforce technical excellence.- Own network documentation, architecture diagrams, SOPs, and compliance frameworks.- Lead disaster recovery (DR), business continuity planning (BCP), and audit readiness.- Manage vendor relationships, evaluate technologies, and drive cost optimization initiatives.Technical Skills & Expertise :- Deep hands-on experience with networking technologies: Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, Fortinet (or equivalent).- Strong expertise in LAN, WAN, SD-WAN, MPLS, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, TCP/IP.- Advanced knowledge of network security: Firewalls, VPNs (IPSec/SSL), NAC, ACLs, segmentation.- Data center networking expertise: Spine-Leaf architecture, VXLAN, EVPN.- Experience with network monitoring and analytics tools: SNMP, NetFlow, SolarWinds, etc.- Strong exposure to cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP).- Knowledge of automation and scripting (Python, Ansible, Terraform preferred).- Understanding of compliance standards and security frameworks.Qualifications :- Bachelors degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.- Certifications such as CCNP/CCIE, JNCIP/JNCIE, NSE, or equivalent are highly preferred.- 15+ years of experience in enterprise, telecom, or large-scale data center environments.Leadership & Soft Skills :- Proven leadership in managing network teams and large-scale projects.- Strong decision-making and problem-solving capabilities.- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.- Ability to drive strategic initiatives and influence organizational direction.- High ownership, accountability, and attention to detail. (ref:hirist.tech)