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Remote Sonet Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Network Engineer Level 5

Arlington, VA · Remote

$160K - $200K/yr

TS/SCI Potential for Remote Work: ORA_HYBRID Description SAIC is seeking a seasoned Network ... SONET/SDH,FDDI, OTN (ITU-T G.709, OTU4, OTU2). * Hardware Expertise: Hands-on experience with ...

Remote Sonet information

What is a remote SONET engineer?

A Remote SONET engineer is a telecommunications professional who specializes in managing, monitoring, and maintaining Synchronous Optical Networking (SONET) systems from a remote location. SONET is a standardized protocol that transfers multiple digital bit streams over optical fiber using lasers or LEDs. Remote SONET engineers ensure the network's reliability, troubleshoot issues, and often work with service providers to optimize data transmission. Their role is crucial in supporting high-speed telecommunication networks for businesses and service providers.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a remote SONET engineer?

To thrive as a Remote SONET Engineer, you need a strong background in telecommunications, network engineering, and a solid understanding of SONET/SDH protocols, usually backed by a degree in a related field. Expertise in network management systems, fiber optic testing equipment, and certifications like CCNA or similar are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for remote troubleshooting and collaboration. These abilities ensure reliable network performance, minimal downtime, and effective coordination across geographically distributed teams.

What are common challenges faced by remote SONET engineers and how can they be addressed?

Remote SONET (Synchronous Optical Networking) engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting network issues without direct physical access to hardware and ensuring seamless communication with on-site teams. These challenges can be addressed by leveraging advanced remote monitoring tools, maintaining detailed network documentation, and establishing clear protocols for remote and local collaboration. Regular virtual meetings and thorough handoff procedures also help ensure efficient issue resolution and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Remote Sonet vs Remote SONET Technician?

AspectRemote SonetRemote SONET Technician
CertificationsNetworking certifications (e.g., Cisco, CompTIA)Networking certifications, often with specific focus on SONET technology
Work EnvironmentRemote, primarily office-based or home-basedRemote, with some on-site troubleshooting or installation
Industry UsageTelecommunications, networkingTelecommunications, network maintenance
Job FocusDesign, configuration, and management of SONET networksInstallation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of SONET equipment

Remote Sonet roles focus on network design and management, while Remote SONET Technician positions emphasize hands-on maintenance and troubleshooting of SONET systems. Both require networking certifications and are common in telecommunications industries, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sonet jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Sonet jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Remote Sonet jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Remote Sonet job openings:

Network Engineer Level 5

SAIC

Arlington, VA • Remote

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2616439

Location: Arlington, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-09-02

Category: Information Technology

Subcategory: Network Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 25% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: Top_Secret

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: TS/SCI

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_HYBRID


Description

SAIC is seeking a seasoned Network Engineer to join our Network Team. You will be responsible for the architecture, design, deployment, and optimization of our high-traffic, carrier-grade network infrastructure. The ideal candidate has deep, hands-on experience maintaining five-nines (99.999%) availability in a dedicated infrastructure (utilizing dark fiber, wavelength services), service provider, and/or large-scale data center. You will lead complex troubleshooting, ensure robust security, and drive network modernization, including advanced L0 optimization, IPv4/IPv6 transition and SDN (L0-L3) automation physical transport, data link, and network layers simultaneously. This position is remote with travel. 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Architecture & Design: Design, implement, and maintain high-performance, scalable, and resilient IP network infrastructure (MPLS, IP/Ethernet).
  • Operations & Troubleshooting: Provide Tier 3/4 escalation support, conducting deep-packet inspection and root cause analysis (RCA) for complex outages.
  • Routing & Switching: Manage and optimize advanced routing protocols including BGP, OSPF, and ISIS, specifically focusing on traffic engineering and internet peering.
  • Carrier Grade Technologies: Implement and manage carrier-grade NAT (CGNAT) for IPv4/IPv6 transition, AAA/RADIUS infrastructure, and high-capacity wireless/mobility cores.
  • Performance Optimization: Maximize network performance through continuous monitoring and capacity planning to handle high-traffic volumes.
  • Automation: Develop and implement automation scripts using Python, Ansible, or Terraform to streamline configuration, provisioning, and MOP (Method of Procedure) execution.
  • Security & Compliance: Ensure compliance with security standards (e.g., ISO27001, PCI-DSS) and implement network-level security, such as DDoS protection and lawful intercept.
  • Documentation: Create and maintain detailed network diagrams, MOPs, and technical documentation.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications & Experience:

  • Masters Degree in Network Engineering or related field + 8 years experience or Bachelors Degree in Network Engineering or related field + 10 years experience. 5+ years experience with provisioning 1/carrier class networks.

Required Skills & Experience

  • U.S. citizenship and an active Top-Secret clearance, with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI.
  • Experience: 5 -15+ years in network engineering, specifically within a service provider, ISP, or carrier-grade data center environment.
  • Technical Proficiency (L2-L3): TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, ISIS, MPLS, IKE, IPSEC, VPNs, and VLANs.
  • Technical Proficiency (L0-L2): SONET/SDH,FDDI, OTN (ITU-T G.709, OTU4, OTU2).
  • Hardware Expertise: Hands-on experience with carrier-grade platforms (e.g., Ciena, Cisco ASR/NCS/Nexus, Juniper MX/Mist, Nokia, or Arista).
  • Automation/Scripting: Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Python or Ansible.
  • Linux/Unix: Strong Linux CLI skills.
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
  • Certifications: CCNP/CCIE (Service Provider or Routing & Switching) preferred, but no required.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with CGNAT platforms (e.g., F5 BIG-IP, A10 Networks).
  • Knowledge of 5G core networking or virtualized platforms (VMware, OpenStack).
  • Experience with Fiber transport technologies (DWDM, ROADM, WSS, PON).

Why Join Us

  • Work on one of the largest infrastructure deployments in the region.
  • Direct influence on network architecture and modernization projects.
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including 401(k) matching.

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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