Independent Software
Network Engineer, Level 3
Network Engineering - Annapolis Junction, MD - Full Time
What You Will Do:
At Independent Software, as a Network Engineer Level 3, you will design, implement, maintain, and optimize enterprise network infrastructure supporting mission-critical operations. You will work across the full network lifecycle—from design and architecture through deployment, troubleshooting, and performance optimization—within complex LAN, CAN, and WAN environments.
In this role, you will analyze system requirements, develop network solutions, and ensure secure, high-performance connectivity across distributed systems. You will collaborate with system engineers and mission stakeholders to support dataflow operations, minimize downtime, and maintain compliance with DoD and IC standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, implement, maintain, and upgrade enterprise network infrastructure across LAN, CAN, and WAN environments
- Analyze network design specifications and provide input to system and mission architecture
- Configure, test, deploy, and maintain network devices including routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers
- Optimize network performance by minimizing latency and maximizing throughput using monitoring and analysis tools
- Support network scheduling activities including system upgrades, migrations, and cutovers
- Design and implement secure network solutions including VPNs, firewall contexts, traffic shaping, VoIP, GRE tunneling, IPSec, NAT, and encryption technologies
- Integrate hardware and software solutions to meet ISO 9000 standards and DoD/IC regulatory requirements
- Develop, maintain, and update network diagrams, documentation, and accreditation artifacts
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues across infrastructure and application layers
- Coordinate with system engineering and dataflow teams to ensure reliable mission operations and data delivery
- Support end-to-end system performance and dataflow management across interconnected systems
- Conduct inspections of network equipment and report any suspected tampering or COMSEC incidents in accordance with policy
- Design, test, and deploy solutions to resolve network performance and operational issues
- Gather and analyze system performance data to define interface and performance requirements
- Lead and mentor junior engineers, including tasking, scheduling, and technical guidance
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Significant experience designing and supporting enterprise network infrastructure
- Strong experience with Cisco and/or Arista network technologies
- Experience supporting LAN, CAN, and WAN environments in secure, mission-critical settings
- Strong understanding of network protocols and technologies including VPNs, IPSec, GRE, NAT, VoIP, and traffic shaping
- Experience with network performance monitoring, optimization, and troubleshooting
- Familiarity with SSP documentation and STE/STN compliance requirements
- Experience integrating network solutions within DoD/IC environments and regulatory frameworks
- Strong understanding of network security principles and COMSEC awareness
- Ability to troubleshoot complex issues across network, system, and dataflow layers
- Strong documentation, communication, and collaboration skills
- Ability to work independently and lead technical efforts in a fast-paced environment
Education and Experience:
- Twelve (12) years of relevant professional experience providing Network Engineering support is required
- A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in System Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering Science, Engineering Management, or a related discipline is required
- A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Assurance, Information Security Systems Engineering, or a related discipline from an accredited college or university may be substituted for two (2) years of experience
- Five (5) additional years of relevant professional experience providing Network Engineering support may be substituted in lieu of a Bachelor’s degree
Certifications:
- DoD 8570.01-M compliant Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level III certification required
Clearance Requirement:
- Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role
Why Choose Independent Software:
At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.
When you join us, you will:
- Support critical national security missions that matter
- Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
- Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
- Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance
Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.
Apply today.
We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
