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Backbone Network Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Network Architect

Chevy Chase, MD · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Network Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Network Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

... core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet, including cybersecurity services, network ... Duties may include providing specifications for network architecture, evaluating, and recommending ...

Network Architect

Arlington, VA · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Network Architect

Glen Echo, MD · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Network Architect

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Network Architect

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Network Architect

Rockville, MD · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Network Architect

Takoma Park, MD · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Network Architect

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

Network Architect

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

$47.75 - $64/hr

The Position As an HPC Network Solutions Architect, you will design, integrate, and optimize high-performance networking architectures that form the backbone of HPC, AI/ML, and data-intensive ...

Network Architect

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Under SMIT, the Leidos team will deliver the core backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI ... network/HW/SW security architecture, network topology, IT device integrity, and common security ...

$47.75 - $64/hr

The Position As an HPC Network Solutions Architect, you will design, integrate, and optimize high-performance networking architectures that form the backbone of HPC, AI/ML, and data-intensive ...

New

HPC Network Architect

Dallas, TX · On-site

$64 - $85.75/hr

The Position As an HPC Network Solutions Architect, you will design, integrate, and optimize high-performance networking architectures that form the backbone of HPC, AI/ML, and data-intensive ...

Showing results 41-60

Backbone Network Architect information

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$71

$93

How much do backbone network architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for backbone network architect in the United States is $71.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62.26 and $83.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backbone network architect?

A Backbone Network Architect is a professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the core infrastructure that connects various networks within an organization or between organizations. They ensure high-speed data transmission, scalability, and reliability of network backbones, which are essential for supporting large volumes of traffic and mission-critical applications. These architects work closely with network engineers and IT teams to create robust network frameworks and resolve complex networking issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backbone network architect?

To thrive as a Backbone Network Architect, you need deep expertise in network design, routing protocols (like BGP and OSPF), and strong analytical skills, typically backed by a degree in computer science or engineering and relevant experience. Familiarity with network hardware (Cisco, Juniper), network management systems, and certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, or JNCIE are frequently required. Strategic thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help distinguish top professionals in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring reliable, scalable, and secure network infrastructures that support organizational growth and data integrity.

How does a backbone network architect typically collaborate with other IT teams during large-scale network upgrades?

Backbone Network Architects play a central role in coordinating with various IT teams, such as network engineers, security specialists, and data center managers, especially during major network upgrade projects. They are responsible for designing the overall network infrastructure and ensuring all components are compatible and optimized for performance, reliability, and security. Effective communication and regular meetings are common, as architects must gather requirements, address technical constraints, and ensure the deployment aligns with organizational goals. Collaboration is key to resolving issues quickly and maintaining smooth network operations throughout the upgrade process.

What are popular job titles related to Backbone Network Architect jobs?

For Backbone Network Architect jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Network Engineer, Deployment & Support

Papillion, NE • On-site

Meta
Internet and IT • 10K+ employees

$106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Meta rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Meta is looking for an Optical Network Deployment Engineer to join a team responsible for planning and executing network deployments and migrations across one of the world's largest and most complex backbone, edge, and optical networks. As a member of this team, you will have a unique opportunity to work on projects related to the planning, implementation, and scaling of Meta's AI network infrastructure. This team is responsible for planning and executing network migrations for one of the world's largest AI backbone and edge networks. As a Network Deployment Engineer, you will propose new ideas, gather constructive feedback from others, and drive these ideas to implementation.
Network Engineer, Deployment & Support Responsibilities:
  • Proactively partner with backbone engineering, capacity planning, business, and operations teams to synthesize complex cross-functional requirements into scalable infrastructure solutions
  • Plan, schedule, and execute complex deployments and migrations across Meta's optical backbone network, including long-haul terrestrial, regional metro, and subsea segments connecting data centers and PoP sites
  • Make independent, high-impact technical and planning decisions affecting backbone network deployment and operations
  • Provide technical expertise on network deployment and migration across data centers and POPs, spanning space & power, configuration, testing, and production handoff
  • Collaborate on strategic road mapping and organizational initiatives to prioritize scalable, efficient, and reliable network migrations aligned with business goals
  • Contribute to Optical Transport Network (OTN) deployment/migration strategies of network architecture spanning data centers, backbone, edge, and cloud platforms
  • Create and analyze network code, automate network configurations and migrations through scripting, and leverage AI to enhance network operations
  • Work cross-functionally to generate implementation plans including Method of Procedure (MOP), Bill of Materials (BOM), and Engineering Design Packages (EDP)
  • Maintain standards for all builds and design packages for metro, regional and long-haul DWDM rings/systems
  • Serve as a representative in large-scale program initiatives, driving alignment and execution across teams and stakeholders
  • Manage partner engineering team relationships to enable the team(s) to effectively meet business needs
  • Manage key vendor relationships including contract negotiations, pricing, and evaluation of current and potential partnerships
  • Drive alignment on workflow management tooling requirements, focusing on efficiency and automation roadmaps
  • Leverage a data driven approach to influence business and network health metrics

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Currently has, or is in the process of obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, relevant technical field, or equivalent practical experience. Degree must be completed prior to joining Meta
  • 5+ years of experience in optical network engineering, design, or deployment with expertise in DWDM, ROADM, OTN (G.709), and coherent optics (400G/800G)
  • Experience with optical line systems and transponder platforms (e.g., Ciena, Nokia, Infinera, or equivalent)
  • Demonstrated expertise in architecting and deploying complex network solutions across data centers, backbone, edge, and public cloud environments
  • Experience with field-based work in 3rd Party Network Collocation Facilities, Internet Exchanges, Data Center, Central Offices, etc
  • Track record of defining and executing successful network strategies with measurable, organization-wide impact
  • Experience analyzing technical data to inform decisions, communicating risks and trade-offs to technical and non-technical stakeholders, and collaborating across teams to deliver results in large-scale network environments
  • Experience in communicating risks and action plans to stakeholders as well as building relationships and collaboration within a cross-functional team and business leaders
  • Willingness to travel approximately 10% of the time

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews)
  • Experience with process improvement and systems development, leveraging automation to streamline repetitive workflows
  • Experience working in a Data Center, DC architecture and issues related to data center networks
  • Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies
  • Experience building automation solutions (e.g., Python, Go) and working with network configuration management tooling
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements)
  • Working knowledge of Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning models
  • Advanced degree (Master’s, PhD) in Computer Science, Engineering, or related discipline

About Meta:
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.
Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@meta.com.
$106,995/year to $159,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits
Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

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