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Lead Network Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General information Job Posting Title Lead Network Architect Date Wednesday, June 3, 2026 City Springfield State VA Country United States Working time Full-time Description & Requirements Maximus is ...

General information Job Posting Title Lead Network Architect Date Wednesday, June 3, 2026 City Springfield State VA Country United States Working time Full-time Description & Requirements Maximus is ...

Entarian is seeking a Lead Network Architect will support a complex space mission operations capability supporting DoD mission requirements. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in ...

Lead Network Architect

Denver, CO · On-site

$165K - $206K/yr

Entarian is seeking a Lead Network Architect will support a complex space mission operations capability supporting DoD mission requirements. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in ...

Lead Network Architect

Denver, CO · On-site

$165K - $206K/yr

Entarian is seeking a Lead Network Architect will support a complex space mission operations capability supporting DoD mission requirements. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in ...

Entarian is seeking a Lead Network Architect will support a complex space mission operations capability supporting DoD mission requirements. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

The Lead Network Architect works on problems of diverse scope and complexity ranging from moderate to substantial. The Lead, Network Architect Provides Level 3 design, engineering implementation ...

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Lead Network Architect information

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How much do lead network architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead network architect in the United States is $62.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.08 and $73.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead network architect do?

A lead network architect designs, implements, and manages complex network infrastructure to ensure reliable and secure data communication within an organization. They oversee network planning, evaluate new technologies, and coordinate with teams to optimize performance, often requiring certifications like Cisco CCNP or CCIE. Their role involves strategic decision-making and leadership in network projects.

Is network architect in demand?

Network architects are in high demand due to the increasing need for secure and efficient network infrastructure in organizations. They typically require strong skills in network design, security, and familiarity with tools like Cisco or Juniper, and employment prospects are strong across various industries.

How does a Lead Network Architect typically collaborate with other IT teams during large-scale network projects?

A Lead Network Architect works closely with cross-functional IT teams—including security specialists, systems engineers, and project managers—to ensure that network designs align with organizational goals and technical requirements. During large-scale projects, they facilitate communication between stakeholders, oversee design reviews, and provide technical guidance to implementation teams. Effective collaboration is essential for troubleshooting, integrating new technologies, and maintaining network security and performance standards throughout the project lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Network Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Network Architect, you need deep expertise in network design, security, and troubleshooting, typically backed by a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field and significant hands-on experience. Familiarity with enterprise networking hardware, protocols, cloud infrastructure, and certifications such as CCNP or CCIE are highly valued. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set top candidates apart, enabling them to guide teams and liaise with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial to designing robust, scalable networks that support business objectives and ensure seamless connectivity.

How much does a network architect get paid?

A network architect typically earns between $90,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in cloud networking or security can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as bonuses and professional development opportunities.

What is the highest paid architect job?

The highest paid architect roles are often senior or specialized positions such as Chief Architect or Enterprise Architect, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in designing complex systems or infrastructure.

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

AspectLead Network ArchitectNetwork Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires Cisco, CCNP, or CCIE certifications, along with extensive experienceOften holds Cisco or CompTIA certifications, with less experience required
Work EnvironmentDesigns and oversees complex network infrastructure, often in strategic rolesMaintains, implements, and troubleshoots network systems on a day-to-day basis
ResponsibilitiesArchitects network solutions, leads projects, and sets technical standardsConfigures hardware, monitors network performance, and resolves issues

The Lead Network Architect focuses on designing and leading network strategies, requiring advanced certifications and experience. In contrast, the Network Engineer handles the implementation and maintenance of network systems, often with less strategic responsibility. Both roles are essential in network management but differ in scope and seniority.

More about Lead Network Architect jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Lead Network Architect jobs? The top employers for Lead Network Architect jobs are:
What states have the most Lead Network Architect jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Network Architect jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lead Network Architect job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,747 per year, or $62.4 per hour.
Lead Network Architect

Lead Network Architect

Maximus

Springfield, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Maximus rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 297 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

259th of 454 rated business services


Job description

General information
Job Posting Title
Lead Network Architect
Date
Wednesday, June 3, 2026
City
Springfield
State
VA
Country
United States
Working time
Full-time
Description & Requirements
Maximus is a trusted federal partner supporting mission-critical programs across national security, defense, and public service delivery. Our work focuses on sustaining, operating, and improving essential government systems and services, with proven operational excellence, and a commitment to mission success for our customers.
Joining Maximus means becoming part of a collaborative, mission-driven organization where teamwork, accountability, and professional growth are core to how we operate. We invest in our workforce through training, education, and career development, empowering professionals to deliver high-impact solutions while contributing to outcomes that matter at a national scale.
This position is contingent upon contract award and position availability. Selected candidates will receive a contingent offer of employment, which will become final only upon successful contract award to Maximus, availability of the position, and receipt of authorization to proceed.
This role is hybrid, allowing for remote work, but requires the ability to work onsite when needed at one of the following locations in Northern Virginia: Springfield, Herndon, or Ashburn.Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust is required. An active Public Trust and/or DHS suitability is preferred. Must be a U.S. Citizen without dual citizenship.
Maximus TCS (Technology and Consulting Services) Internal Job Profile Code: TCS167, T5, Band 8
Job-Specific Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide advanced technical leadership across enterprise network architecture, supporting design, scalability, and operational excellence for nationwide LAN, WAN, wireless, and external connectivity environments.
- Lead complex troubleshooting and resolution efforts for high-severity network incidents, including S1/S2 events, ensuring rapid restoration of mission-critical services.
- Support operational leadership during major incidents and events by guiding response actions, coordinating escalations, and driving efficient restoration activities.
- Interface with agency service providers, external partners, and third-party organizations to support secure and reliable external connectivity across government, commercial, and private networks.
- Design, evaluate, and optimize network architectures to ensure performance, scalability, resilience, and alignment with enterprise and federal standards.
- Provide subject matter expertise on advanced networking technologies, including load balancing (F5), routing, switching, firewalls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems.
- Support network security integration by coordinating response actions for identified threats and vulnerabilities within the network domain.
- Collaborate with team leads and engineering teams to align architecture with operational requirements, service delivery objectives, and governance standards.
- Contribute to capacity planning, performance optimization, and modernization initiatives across a large-scale network infrastructure environment.
- Maintain and review architecture artifacts, design documentation, and network standards to support governance, compliance, and knowledge management.
Job-Specific Minimum Requirements:
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust is required. An active Public Trust and/or DHS suitability is preferred. Must be a U.S. Citizen without dual citizenship
- This role is hybrid, allowing for remote work, but requires the ability to work onsite when needed at one of the following locations in Northern Virginia: Springfield, Herndon, or Ashburn.
- Demonstrated experience leading, designing and supporting enterprise network architectures across LAN, WAN, wireless, and external connectivity environments.
- Proven expertise in advanced network troubleshooting and incident resolution, including high-severity (S1/S2) incidents.
- Hands-on experience with load balancing technologies and enterprise network infrastructure components (routers, switches, firewalls).
- Experience interfacing with external providers and partners to support secure connectivity and network integration.
- Strong knowledge of network security principles, including firewalls, IDS/IPS, and vulnerability response coordination.
- Experience supporting large-scale, geographically distributed network environments with high availability requirements.
- Ability to develop and maintain network architecture diagrams, design documents, and technical standards.
- Experience collaborating across architecture, engineering, and operations teams in a matrixed environment.
Minimum Education requirement:
- Bachelor's degree in Network Engineering, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Years of Required Work-Related Experience:
- 10-14 years of experience in network engineering or network architecture roles.
Required Certification:
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) required; CCIE or equivalent advanced certification preferred.
Preferred Skills and Qualifications:
- Experience supporting federal government environments.
- Deep expertise in F5 load balancing and application delivery controllers.
- Experience designing high-availability and resilient network architectures supporting 24/7/365 operations.
- Familiarity with hybrid cloud networking and external connectivity integration.
- Experience supporting VoIP and VTC network architectures.
- Knowledge of ITIL-based ITSM/ITOM processes and their integration with network operations.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills in complex, mission-critical environments.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage technical and non-technical stakeholders.
#LI-Remote #clearance #techjobs #veteranspage
Minimum Requirements
TCS167, T5, Band 8
#TSTECH
EEO Statement
Maximus is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics.
Pay Transparency
Maximus compensation is based on various factors including but not limited to job location, a candidate's education, training, experience, expected quality and quantity of work, required travel (if any), external market and internal value analysis including seniority and merit systems, as well as internal pay alignment. Annual salary is just one component of Maximus's total compensation package. Other rewards may include short- and long-term incentives as well as program-specific awards. Additionally, Maximus provides a variety of benefits to employees, including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays and paid time off. Compensation ranges may differ based on contract value but will be commensurate with job duties and relevant work experience. An applicant's salary history will not be used in determining compensation. Maximus will comply with regulatory minimum wage rates and exempt salary thresholds in all instances.
Accommodations
Maximus provides reasonable accommodations to individuals requiring assistance during any phase of the employment process due to a disability, medical condition, or physical or mental impairment. If you require assistance at any stage of the employment process-including accessing job postings, completing assessments, or participating in interviews,-please contact People Operations at applicantaccom@maximus.com.
Minimum Salary
$
90,000.00
Maximum Salary
$
140,000.00

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