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Chief Network Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

mcts

NETWORK ARCHITECT

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$82K - $97K/yr

Chief Information Officer Salary Range: $82,500- $97,000 **Employment eligibility to work for ... The Network Architect is responsible for the design, modernization, maintenance, monitoring ...

mcts

NETWORK ARCHITECT

Milwaukee, WI

$82K - $97K/yr

Chief Information Officer Salary Range: $82,500- $97,000 **Employment eligibility to work for ... The Network Architect is responsible for the design, modernization, maintenance, monitoring ...

Procom Services

Network Architect

New York, NY · On-site

$70.75 - $95/hr

... Network Services Risk Management & Compliance Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Security ... The Chief Technical Architect designates the IT Architect as a member of the technical architecture ...

MKS2 Technologies

Network Architect

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$210K - $225K/yr

Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible network engineering experience, including at least 7 years as a senior architect, chief engineer, technical lead, or comparable authority in complex DoD ...

MKS2 Technologies

Network Architect

Honolulu, HI

$210K - $225K/yr

Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible network engineering experience, including at least 7 years as a senior architect, chief engineer, technical lead, or comparable authority in complex DoD ...

MKS2 Technologies

Network Architect

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$210K - $225K/yr

Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible network engineering experience, including at least 7 years as a senior architect, chief engineer, technical lead, or comparable authority in complex DoD ...

Aeris

Network Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$190K - $209K/yr

... CTO-level customer leaders. Key Responsibilities 5G SA Deployment Leadership * Lead end-to-end ... Architecture & Technical Strategy * Guide Aeris network evolution strategies in support of global ...

Leidos

Network Architect

Camp Springs, MD · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

... advisor to Chief Architect and other senior IT managers. Don't miss out on this exciting ... Network Project Engineer primary responsibilities: * Conduct Site Survey's when needed. * Serve as ...

Leidos

Network Architect

Orlando, FL · On-site

$116K - $210K/yr

Manage SD-WAN architecture, including operational and security updates. * Lead planning and ... Coordinate with the C2NSOC DI-Network Manager Team Lead and chief engineer to manage issues and ...

Amatriot Group, LLC

Network Architect (Senior)

Aiea, HI

$130K - $180K/yr

... Network Architect will support the Special Operation Command Information Technology Enterprise ... the CIO/J6 organization, and ultimately the end-user who operate around the globe 24x7x365. The ...

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Chief Network Architect information

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$104.5K

$177.6K

$253K

How much do chief network architect jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief network architect in the United States is $177,571.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $150,000.00 and $195,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief network architect do?

A Chief Network Architect is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining an organization’s data communications networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. They develop high-level network strategies, ensure network security, and oversee upgrades to meet business needs. Additionally, they collaborate with other IT professionals and executive leadership to align network infrastructure with organizational goals. This role often involves evaluating new networking technologies and leading teams of network engineers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief network architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Network Architect, you need deep expertise in network design, protocols, cybersecurity, and infrastructure, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or a related field. Proficiency with network management tools, cloud platforms, and certifications such as Cisco CCIE or AWS Certified Solutions Architect is highly valued. Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills help drive cross-functional teams and align network solutions with business objectives. These capabilities are critical for building secure, scalable networks that support organizational growth and technological innovation.

How does a chief network architect typically collaborate with other IT leaders and departments within an organization?

A Chief Network Architect works closely with IT leadership, such as CIOs, CTOs, and security officers, to align network strategies with business goals and security requirements. They often lead cross-functional teams, coordinating with network engineers, security analysts, and application developers to design scalable, secure, and reliable network infrastructures. Regular meetings and project reviews are common to ensure all stakeholders are informed and that solutions meet organizational needs. This collaborative approach helps bridge technical and business objectives, making strong communication and leadership skills essential in this role.

What is the difference between Chief Network Architect vs Network Engineer?

AspectChief Network ArchitectNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; certifications like CCNP, CCIE, or Cisco Certified ArchitectBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related; certifications like CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, design, and oversight of network infrastructure at an organizational levelImplementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network systems
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large enterprises, telecom companies, and organizations with complex networksCommon across various industries, including IT firms, service providers, and corporate IT departments

The Chief Network Architect focuses on designing and overseeing the entire network infrastructure, often at a strategic level, while the Network Engineer handles the day-to-day implementation and maintenance of network systems. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their responsibilities differ significantly in scope and focus.

Are chief network architects in demand?

Chief Network Architects are in high demand due to the increasing need for secure and reliable network infrastructure in organizations. They typically require advanced technical skills, certifications, and experience in network design, security, and cloud technologies, making their expertise valuable across various industries.
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Chief Network Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Network Architect job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $177,571 per year, or $85.4 per hour.

Network Architect/Engineer Route/Switch & Optical

Durham, NC • On-site

MCNC
IT Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about MCNCexternal

$62.50 - $83.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
Join MCNC's Network Architecture and Management team to help support network architecture-based initiatives and the development of next-generation data-network service offerings to be delivered on the North Carolina Research and Education Network (NCREN). MCNC, via its wholly-owned state-of-the-art fiber and DWDM-based optical/IP/MPLS network, NCREN, supports North Carolina public K-12 schools, North Carolina public and private universities and colleges, North Carolina community colleges, healthcare, libraries, state and local government, nonprofit organizations, and public safety, among others.
We've created a dynamic work environment designed to provide our employees the freedom and support they need to achieve great things for the citizens of North Carolina and for their own future. The successful candidate will enjoy a competitive salary (commensurate with experience) and an industry-leading comprehensive benefits package. This is a hybrid work position and will report to the Director of Network Architecture and Management/Chief Network Architect, NCREN.
Key Roles and Responsibilities
  1. Participates or leads in the development of data networking/telecommunications service offerings within the MCNC service development framework.
  2. Participates or leads in proof-of-concept labs and associated activities.
  3. Participates or leads in the support of NCREN operations by:
  • o Ensuring the quality of network device software.
  • o Ensuring the quality of network device configurations.
  • o Ensuring the security posture of network devices.
  • o Ensuring that best current practices for data networking are being followed.
  1. Participates or leads in Pre-Sales Engineering activities as required.
  2. Participates or leads in the creation of network equipment "bills of material."
  3. Participates or leads in the development of network device capital budgets.
  4. Participates or leads in the creation of technical responses to RFPs/RFIs/RFQs/IFBs that MCNC is planning to respond to and/or the creation of technical requirements sections to RFPs/RFIs/RFQs/IFBs that MCNC may issue.
  5. Represents MCNC at Research & Education focused events (national and local) as required.
  6. Performs other duties as prescribed.

Qualifications and Education Requirements
  1. Has a Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of experience and education
  2. Has 5+ years of progressive experience in data networking in a service provider environment.
  3. Has hands-on experience designing data/telecommunications networks and/or developing data network/telecommunications service offerings.
  4. Possesses outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
  5. Possesses outstanding analytical skills.
  6. Can create detailed reports, diagrams, system documentation, white papers, solution briefs, etc.
  7. Has significant demonstrable experience with data networking in Internet Service Provider environments.
  8. Has demonstrable experience with one or more of the following technologies: Carrier Ethernet (E-LINE, E-LAN), BGP, IS-IS, EoMPLS, VPLS, MPLS Layer 3 VPN, Segment Routing, EVPN, GRE, BGP FlowSpec, etc.
  9. Has demonstrable experience with carrier class routers and switches, e.g., Cisco ASR 9000, Cisco 8000, Cisco NCS 540, Cisco ASR 920.
  10. Has demonstrable experience with IOS XR.
  11. Has demonstrable experience with IOS XE.
  12. Has demonstrable experience with Linux/Unix.
  13. Has demonstrable experience with scripting languages with an emphasis on network automation.
  14. Understands how to engineer solutions within the boundaries of budget and time constraints.
  15. Completes assignments on time or ahead of schedule.
  16. Is extremely detail oriented, but does not lose sight of the big picture.
  17. Is the ultimate team player, but works independently as required and is prepared to be a significant individual contributor.
  18. Is comfortable in a dynamic fast-paced environment where priorities change as required to meet customer demands.
  19. Must have a valid driver's license and will be required to drive a company vehicle on company business. Pre-employment and annual MVR checks will be required during your employment with the company for this position in order to be approved to drive a company-owned vehicle.
  20. Background and sex offender checks will be performed for pre-employment and annually during your employment with the company.
  21. This role will be required to adhere to the MCNC Substance Abuse policy, which may include drug/alcohol screening at hire and periodically or randomly during employment.
  22. The work location for this position will be hybrid. The successful candidate must live within reasonable commuting distance of the corporate headquarters located at 3021 East Cornwallis Road, Durham, NC 27713.
Preferred Qualifications/Specialties
  1. B.S. in electrical engineering or computer science or related field.
  2. 3+ previous years spent with a significant hands-on focus designing data/telecommunications networks and/or developing data.
  3. Experience with SD-WAN.
  4. Experience with BGP EVPN VXLAN.
  5. Experience programming in Python 3.
  6. Experience with QoS.
  7. Experience with Palo Alto firewalls.
  8. Experience with Microsoft Visio.
  9. Experience with Spirent (now Viavi) test tools such as TestCenter and CyberFlood
  10. Experience with DWDM-based optical networking:
  11. o Single mode fiber specifications and characteristics
  12. o Fixed frequency filters/passive muxing
  13. o Colorless ROADMs
  14. o Flex Grid
  15. o Coherent DWDM
  16. o OTN

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
MCNC is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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