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Computer Network Architect Jobs in Washington, DC

Network Architect

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$195K - $209K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical discipline ... Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture, with a ...

Network Architect

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$195K - $209K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical discipline ... Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture, with a ...

Network Architect

Mclean, VA · Hybrid

$130K - $144K/yr

Possesses Bachelor's degree in network engineering, computer science, or related field. * Minimum 8 years of network architecture experience with demonstrated expertise in enterprise network design.

Network Architect

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$195K - $209K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical discipline ... Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture, with a ...

Network Architect

Mclean, VA · Hybrid

$130K - $144K/yr

Possesses Bachelor's degree in network engineering, computer science, or related field. * Minimum 8 years of network architecture experience with demonstrated expertise in enterprise network design.

Network Architect (SME)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

This role is focused on future-state network architecture rather than day-to-day operations and the ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Cybersecurity, Network ...

Network Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$73.25 - $98.25/hr

Undergraduate or graduate degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering * 5+ years of network engineering and network architectural design experience * Expert level ...

Network Architect

Mclean, VA · On-site

$130K - $144K/yr

Possesses Bachelor's degree in network engineering, computer science, or related field. * Minimum 8 years of network architecture experience with demonstrated expertise in enterprise network design.

Network Architect (SME)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180 - $225/hr

This role is focused on future-state network architecture rather than day-to-day operations and the ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Cybersecurity, Network ...

Network Architect (SME)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

As a Network Architect SME with AMERICAN SYSTEMS, you will have the opportunity to: * Support ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Cybersecurity, Network ...

Network Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$68.50 - $91.75/hr

Undergraduate or graduate degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering * 5+ years of network engineering and network architectural design experience * Expert level ...

Network Architect

Laurel, MD · On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Network Architect t o perform as a consultant for leading ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, engineering science, or related ...

Network Architect

Laurel, MD · On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Network Architect t o perform as a consultant for leading ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, engineering science, or related ...

Network Architect

Laurel, MD · On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Network Architect t o perform as a consultant for leading ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, engineering science, or related ...

... Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience). Years of Required Work-Related ... network engineering or network architecture roles. Required Certification: - Cisco Certified ...

Network Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$68.50 - $91.75/hr

Undergraduate or graduate degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering * 5+ years of network engineering and network architectural design experience * Expert level ...

... Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience). Years of Required Work-Related ... network engineering or network architecture roles. Required Certification: - Cisco Certified ...

Network Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Duties may include providing specifications for network architecture, evaluating, and recommending ... Required Qualifications: * BS in computer science or related field degree, from an accredited ...

Showing results 41-60

Computer Network Architect information

See Washington, DC salary details

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How much do computer network architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer network architect in Washington, DC is $79.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68.85 and $92.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by computer network architects in their daily work?

Computer Network Architects often encounter challenges such as designing scalable networks to support evolving business requirements and ensuring robust cybersecurity across complex infrastructures. Staying current with rapidly changing technologies and troubleshooting unexpected network issues can also be demanding aspects of the role. Collaboration with IT teams, vendors, and management is a regular part of the job, requiring clear communication and coordination. These challenges make the role both dynamic and rewarding for professionals who enjoy problem-solving and continuous learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the computer network architect position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Network Architect, you need deep knowledge of network design, security principles, and infrastructure protocols, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Cisco, Juniper, or Arista platforms, alongside certifications such as CCNP or CCIE, is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication are important soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure reliable, secure, and scalable network solutions that meet organizational needs.

Can a computer network architect work from home?

Computer network architects can often work from home, especially if their role involves designing, planning, and analyzing network systems using remote collaboration tools. However, some tasks may require on-site presence for equipment installation or troubleshooting, depending on the employer's policies and project requirements.

Is a computer network architect a good career?

A computer network architect designs and implements complex network systems, often requiring strong technical skills and certifications such as Cisco or CompTIA. It is considered a stable and well-paying career with opportunities for advancement in various industries. The role typically involves working in office environments and staying updated on emerging networking technologies.

What does a computer network architect do?

A computer network architect designs, plans, and implements computer networks for organizations, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. They analyze an organization’s needs, select appropriate hardware and software, and ensure network security and performance, often using tools like network simulation software and earning certifications such as Cisco CCNA. Their work involves collaborating with IT teams and maintaining network infrastructure to support business operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Network Architect jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Computer Network Architect jobs in Washington, DC are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Network Architect jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Network Architect jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Computer Network Architect job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $170,287 per year, or $81.9 per hour.

Network Architect/Network Engineer

FTS International LLC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$66.25 - $88.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

FTS International, LLC (FTS) is committed to providing the Federal Government with quality consultants and support. To ensure mission success we focus on putting our customers first while minimizing corporate bureaucracy on our staff. We provide Subject Matter Experts (SME) free of Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCI) focused on independent analysis and mission support services within the disciplines of Engineering, Counter Terrorism Operations, Management, Information Technology, Signals Analysis, Administration, Cyber Security and Linguistics.
FTS has an opportunity for a Network Architect/Network Engineer in Chantilly, VA.
The Network Architect/Network Engineer will provide Systems Engineering Technical Assistance (SETA) support to a government acquisition office for space and ground acquisitions. This role will focus on providing expert advice, technical evaluations, technical assessments and alternative approaches to adaptive network solutions that can automatically reconfigure in response to changing conditions, ensuring optimal performance, security, and reliability.
Responsibilities
  • Deep knowledge of enterprise protocols, open frameworks, and industry standards to create interoperable, future-proof network solutions, combined with strong systems engineering capabilities to ensure comprehensive solution development from requirements through implementation and validation
  • Ensure network architectures are compatible with multiple systems and that all interfaces are comprehensively documented to enable seamless integration
  • Assess proposed architectures and implementations of advanced software-defined network (SDN) solutions that support dynamic mesh topologies with multi-system compatibility
  • Provide expert advice, technical evaluations and alternative approaches for network architectures, network models and adaptive network solutions under consideration
  • Apply systems engineering methodologies to network architecture development, including requirements elicitation, functional decomposition, and trade-off analysis
  • Develop comprehensive network requirements through stakeholder engagement and translate requirements into technical specifications
  • Conduct rigorous analysis of alternatives for network solutions, evaluating technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, performance modeling / analysis and alignment with strategic objectives
  • Advise, evaluate, assess and develop alternatives for:
    • Network automation frameworks that enable real-time topology adjustments based on traffic patterns, application demands, and system health
    • Network management solutions that provide comprehensive visibility and control into dynamic mesh environments
    • Network orchestration systems that optimize routing, load balancing, and resource allocation across distributed environments
    • Network security controls that maintain effectiveness across changing topologies
  • Develop test plans and acceptance criteria for network implementations to verify and validate methodologies for network designs
  • Create and maintain comprehensive interface control documents (ICDs) that precisely define all network interfaces, protocols, and data formats
  • Develop detailed network architecture documentation including topology diagrams, data flow models, and sequence diagrams
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure network designs support application requirements in fluid environments
  • Lead proof-of-concept initiatives for emerging network technologies and evaluate their potential for enterprise adoption
  • Document network architectures, automation workflows, and operational procedures for complex mesh deployments
  • Create and deliver technical presentations to leadership and stakeholders on network architecture decisions, roadmaps, and vendor selection
  • Participate in system design reviews, identify system risks and opportunities, and advise on mitigation strategies

Required Skills/Qualifications
  • TS/SCI with polygraph
  • BS degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Network Engineering, Electrical Engineering with a focus on Networking or a related field
  • 10+ years' relevant experience
  • Experience with:
    • Network Architecture design and Network Management techniques including Software defined networking
    • Optimizing network data flows
    • Modems
    • Mobile network standards and Network Routing Plans
    • Enterprise networking
    • Wireless 5G network design and data flow optimization
  • Demonstrated expertise in designing and implementing dynamic mesh network architectures
  • Strong knowledge of SDN controllers and frameworks
  • Deep understanding of routing protocols and their behavior in dynamic environments
  • Experience with network analytics platforms and telemetry systems for real-time monitoring
  • Experience designing networks that interface with multiple heterogeneous systems

Desired Skills/Qualifications
  • MS degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Network Engineering, Electrical Engineering with a focus on Networking or a related field
  • Experience in telecommunications environments such as:
    • Mobile network infrastructure (4G/5G, RAN, Core Network)
    • Large-scale enterprise network operations (10,000+ endpoints)
    • Mission-critical command and control systems
    • Tactical communications networks
  • Background in designing networks for high-availability (HA) environments (99.999% uptime)
  • Experience with AI/ML-driven network optimization and predictive analytics
  • Knowledge of graph theory as applied to network topology optimization
  • Background in large-scale network transformations from traditional to SDN architectures
  • Experience with multi-cloud networking and hybrid cloud connectivity solutions
  • Experience with model-based systems engineering (MBSE)
  • Experience with satellite communications integration with terrestrial networks
  • Experience with cross-domain solutions and multi-level security environments

Expected Salary Range: $195,000 - $210,000 per year. Placement within the range is determined by qualifications, job-related criteria, experience, internal equity and market considerations. In addition, FTS International, LLC has benefits offerings in addition to salary to include Health Insurance, Paid Time Off, Life Insurance, Short Term and Long-Term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.
FTS International, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer - vets/disabled.