1

Network Automation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Network Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Support network automation, scripting, and orchestration efforts where applicable Qualifications HIgh School diploma and 9+ years (or commensurate experience) Required Skills and Experience

Foundational knowledge of routing protocols, IP addressing, subnetting, and common network services, with exposure to SDN and network automation concepts. * Experience implementing or supporting ...

Communication Network, High Availability (Inactive), Network Automation, Routing and Switching, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Certifications: None Experience: 10 + years of related experience ...

Senior Network Tool Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Experience with network automation and orchestration tools, specifically Cisco Network Services Orchestrator (NSO). The job duties are as follows: * Install, configure, and maintain Cisco Network ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Network Automation information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$108.1K

$156.6K

How much do network automation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for network automation in Virginia is $108,104.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,200.00 and $132,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace CCNA jobs?

Network automation roles, including those requiring CCNA certification, involve managing and configuring network devices, which AI can assist but not fully replace. AI tools can automate routine tasks, but skilled network professionals are needed for complex troubleshooting, design, and security. Continuous learning and certification updates help maintain job relevance amid technological advances.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior network engineers or network architects with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in automation tools can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or large organizations. These roles often require strong skills in network design, scripting, and automation platforms like Cisco, Juniper, or cloud environments.

How much does a network automation engineer make?

A network automation engineer's salary typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as Cisco or Juniper. Professionals with advanced skills in scripting, network protocols, and automation tools like Ansible or Python tend to earn higher salaries.

What is a Network Automation job?

A Network Automation job focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining automated solutions to manage network infrastructure efficiently. Professionals in this role use programming, scripting, and network protocols to streamline operations, reduce manual tasks, and enhance network reliability. They work with tools like Ansible, Python, and APIs to configure devices, monitor performance, and troubleshoot issues. This role is essential for improving scalability, minimizing human errors, and optimizing network performance in modern IT environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Network Automation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Network Automation, you need strong skills in networking protocols, scripting (such as Python), and a solid understanding of network infrastructure, often backed by a relevant IT degree or certifications like Cisco CCNA/CCNP or CompTIA Network+. Familiarity with automation tools (like Ansible, Puppet, or Cisco NSO), version control systems (such as Git), and REST APIs is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this field. These skills enable professionals to efficiently automate network tasks, reduce manual errors, and contribute to agile, reliable network operations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Network Automation roles?

Professionals in Network Automation often encounter challenges such as integrating automation across diverse network environments, managing legacy systems, and ensuring reliability and security when deploying automated solutions. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including network engineers, security specialists, and software developers—can also present unique communication and workflow challenges. Staying current with evolving tools and best practices is important for continued effectiveness in the role. However, overcoming these challenges helps drive innovation, improves network efficiency, and opens up excellent opportunities for continuous professional development.

What does network automation do?

Network automation involves using software tools and scripts to automatically configure, manage, and monitor network devices and infrastructure. It helps improve efficiency, reduce manual errors, and streamline network operations, often utilizing platforms like Cisco, Juniper, or Ansible. Professionals in this field typically need knowledge of networking protocols and scripting languages such as Python.
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Automation jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Network Automation jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Network Automation jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Network Automation jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Network Automation jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Network Automation job openings:
LAN/WAN Engineering Subject Matter Expert IV

LAN/WAN Engineering Subject Matter Expert IV

Invictus International Consulting, LLC

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Title: LAN/WAN Engineering Subject Matter Expert IV

Location: Alexandria, VA

Clearance: TS/SCI with the ability to obtain and maintain a CI polygraph

Job Overview: The LAN/WAN Engineering SME is a recognized technical leader with deep expertise

in service provider and enterprise networking, architecture, and automation, who is capable of guiding complex, high-risk programs and delivering cutting-edge solutions.

Job Duties:

  • Lead the design, engineering, and automation of large-scale service provider and enterprise network infrastructures, including: SD-WAN, Spine-Leaf architectures, and VXLAN/EVPN fabrics, Juniper SSR and multi-vendor environments, Layer 2/3 encryption technologies
  • Serve as a SME providing advanced analysis, research, and solutions for exceptionally complex networking challenges
  • Provide strategic guidance to executive-level project teams, offering technical direction on architecture, integration, and system implementation
  • Architect and implement routing and network virtualization solutions, including IS-IS, OSPF, MP-BGP, VRFs, Segment Routing, EVPN, VXLAN
  • Develop and lead network automation and orchestration initiatives using Python, Bash, Ansible, Cisco NSO, Juniper Paragon/Routing Director, AI-assisted tooling and automation pipelines, Linux-based environments
  • Oversee end-to-end system engineering lifecycle, including requirements analysis, system architecture, and interface design, integration, testing, and validation of complex hardware/software systems, and lifecycle optimization
  • Provide leadership in network infrastructure design, including routers, switches, encryption devices, and supporting hardware/software systems
  • Mentor technical teams as necessary, while establishing state-of-the-art engineering practices
  • Coordinate closely with government stakeholders to ensure mission alignment and successful delivery
  • Drive Agile-based development workflows, leveraging tools such as ServiceNow for workflow automation and operational process improvement

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institute in a technical discipline; an additional 4 years of may be substituted in lieu of a degree
  • Minimum eight (8) years of directly related technical experience
  • Strong expertise in service provider/enterprise network design, including SD-WAN, Spine-Leaf, VXLAN/EVPN, and Layer 2/3 encryption
  • Advanced knowledge of routing and network virtualization (IS-IS, OSPF, MP-BGP, VRFs, EVPN, VXLAN, Segment Routing)
  • Experience with multi-vendor platforms (Cisco IOS-XR/XE, Juniper JUNOS)
  • Proficiency in network automation and programmability (Python, Bash, Ansible; Cisco NSO, Juniper Paragon preferred)
  • Solid understanding of network infrastructure, hardware, and encryption technologies, with experience in Linux environments
  • Familiarity with Agile/DevOps practices, ServiceNow, and automation pipelines/AI-assisted tooling
  • Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems and serve as a technical leader on high-impact programs
  • DoD 8570 IAT II and CCNP (or equivalent) certifications
  • Experience working in a DoD or IC
  • Current active TS/SCI clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain a CI polygraph

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veteran/Disabled


Job Posted by ApplicantPro