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Senior Principal Network Engineer Jobs in Springfield, VA

Cherokee Federal

Network Engineer SME

Herndon, VA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Senior Network Consultant * Network Solutions Expert * Principal Network Specialist * Lead Network Engineer Keywords: * Network Design & Optimization * Cisco Technologies * BGP/OSPF/EIGRP Protocols

ECS

Network Engineer Senior

Washington, DC · On-site

$158K - $176K/yr

Everforth ECS Federal is seeking a Senior Network Engineer to support a mission-focused federal IT program in Washington DC . Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award. Salary ...

ECS

Network Engineer - Senior

Washington, DC · On-site

$158K - $176K/yr

Everforth ECS Federal is seeking a Senior Network Engineer - Secure Communications to support a mission-focused federal IT program in Washington DC . Please Note: This position is contingent upon ...

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All JobsPrincipal Network Engineer JobsSenior Principal Network Engineer JobsSenior Principal Network Engineer Jobs in Springfield, VA

Senior Principal Network Engineer information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$21.9K

$139.2K

$213.6K

How much do senior principal network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior principal network engineer in Springfield, VA is $139,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,200.00 and $165,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Principal Network Engineer vs Network Architect?

AspectSenior Principal Network EngineerNetwork Architect
CredentialsBS in Computer Science or related, Cisco/Juniper certificationsSimilar certifications, often with additional design or architecture credentials
Work EnvironmentHands-on network management, troubleshooting, and optimizationDesigning network solutions, planning infrastructure, and strategic development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across large enterprises, telecoms, and tech companiesCommon in organizations focusing on network infrastructure design and planning
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on technical expertise and operational rolesFocuses on design, planning, and high-level network architecture

The Senior Principal Network Engineer primarily handles advanced network operations and troubleshooting, while the Network Architect focuses on designing and planning network infrastructure. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in large organizations, but they differ in scope—one is more operational, the other strategic.

How does a senior principal network engineer typically collaborate with other IT teams within an organization?

As a Senior Principal Network Engineer, collaboration with other IT teams is a key aspect of the role. You will regularly work alongside security, systems, and cloud engineering teams to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex network solutions. This often involves participating in cross-functional meetings, providing technical leadership on major projects, and ensuring network infrastructure aligns with organizational goals and security policies. Effective communication and strong interpersonal skills are essential, as you'll frequently serve as an advisor and mentor to both network team members and other departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior principal network engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Principal Network Engineer, you need deep expertise in network architecture, protocol design, troubleshooting, and extensive experience with large-scale enterprise networks, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in computer science or related field and advanced certifications like CCIE or JNCIE. Mastery of network management tools, automation platforms (e.g., Ansible, Python scripting), and security systems is essential. Exceptional problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of complex networks critical to organizational operations and innovation.

What is a senior principal network engineer?

Senior Principal Network Engineers are highly experienced professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex network infrastructures within organizations. They often lead large-scale networking projects, set technical standards, and provide strategic guidance to engineering teams. Their role involves troubleshooting advanced network issues, ensuring security and scalability, and advising on future network technologies. Typically, they collaborate with executives and other departments to align network strategies with business goals.
What are popular job titles related to Senior Principal Network Engineer jobs in Springfield, VA? For Senior Principal Network Engineer jobs in Springfield, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Principal Network Engineer jobs in Springfield, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Principal Network Engineer jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Senior Principal Network Engineer jobs? Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Senior Principal Network Engineer job openings:
Senior Principal Network Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Principal Network Engineer job openings in Springfield, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,176 per year, or $66.9 per hour.

Network Engineer SME

Cherokee Federal

Herndon, VA • On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description


Network Engineer - SME
This position requires an active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph clearance.
The Network Engineer - Subject Matter Expert (SME) provides advanced technical leadership in the design, implementation, and optimization of complex network infrastructures. The SME collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure secure, scalable, and resilient network solutions that align with organizational and mission-critical objectives.
Compensation & Benefits:
Estimated Starting Salary Range for Network Engineer - SME: $170,000.00 - $210,000.00
Pay commensurate with experience.
Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.
Network Engineer - SME Responsibilities Include:
  • Design, implement, and manage firewall solutions utilizing Cisco, Pala Alto, and Juniper network devices
  • Perform configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of firewall policies and rules
  • Monitor network traffic for potential security threats and proactively address vulnerabilities
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure network security standards align with business objectives
  • Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices in network security and firewall technologies
  • Ability to translate customer requirements into enterprise network solutions
  • Proven experience as a Network Engineer with a focus on firewall technologies
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Network Engineer - SME Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:
  • Minimum of 16 years' experience.
  • Bachelor's or Master's Degrees are preferred in one or more of the disciplines described below where specific skills may include the following:
  • Strong proficiency with Palo Alto & CISCO firewall platforms, Palo Alto firewall platforms is a plus
  • In-depth knowledge of network protocols, TCP/IP stack, and OSI model
  • Experience with firewall management software such as Cisco FTD and Palo Alto Panorama
  • Experience with a wide variety of network technologies and solutions architectures is a plus
  • Broad understanding of technical principles, theories and concepts in the networking field
  • Knowledge of state-of-the-art systems engineering principles and network design concepts
  • Cloud Service Provider and hybrid cloud experience (extending on-premise networks to cloud providers such as AWS, Azure, Oracle and Google)
  • Strong proficiency with Palo Alto and Cisco firewall platforms is a plus
  • Industry certifications such as CCNA Security, CCNP Security, Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE), or similar industry certifications are preferred
  • Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:
Cherokee Preting (Preting) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about Preting, visit cherokee-federal.com.
#CherokeeFederal #LI-CK4 #IntelCareers
Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.
Similar searchable job titles:
  • Network Infrastructure SME
  • Senior Network Consultant
  • Network Solutions Expert
  • Principal Network Specialist
  • Lead Network Engineer

Keywords:
  • Network Design & Optimization
  • Cisco Technologies
  • BGP/OSPF/EIGRP Protocols
  • Enterprise Network Security
  • Infrastructure Automation

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
Cherokee Federal logo

About Cherokee Federal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cherokee Federal - a division of Cherokee Nation Businesses - is a team of tribally owned federal contracting companies focused on building solutions, solving complex challenges, and serving the nation's mission around the globe for more than 60 federal clients. Our team of companies manages nearly 1,000 projects of all sizes across the construction, consulting, engineering and manufacturing, health, and technology portfolios. Since 2012, the Cherokee Federal team of companies has won more than $5 billion in government contracts. Our 3,000+ employees work in 26 countries, 50 states and 2 U.S. territories. Why choose Cherokee Federal? Visit our website and learn about the great reasons to join our team. cherokee-federal.com

Industry

Architectural services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tulsa, OK, US

Year founded

1969

Social media

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