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Senior Protocol Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Senior Protocol Officer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

... ing services and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ... The Senior Protocol Officer provides expert guidance to ensure all interactions adhere to ...

SAIC

Senior Protocol Officer

Springfield, VA

$160K - $200K/yr

... ing services and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ... The Senior Protocol Officer provides expert guidance to ensure all interactions adhere to ...

SAIC

Protocol Officer

Springfield, VA

$120K - $160K/yr

... systems engineering & integration, and solutions for the Intelligence Community, is seeking ... The mid-level Protocol Officer works under the guidance of senior protocol staff to manage a ...

SAIC

Protocol Officer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

The mid-level Protocol Officer works under the guidance of senior protocol staff to manage a ... ing services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ...

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Senior Protocol Engineer information

How does a Senior Protocol Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the protocol development lifecycle?

As a Senior Protocol Engineer, collaboration with cross-functional teams is essential throughout the protocol development lifecycle. You will work closely with product managers to understand requirements, coordinate with security engineers to ensure protocol robustness, and partner with frontend/backend engineers to support implementation. Regular communication, code reviews, and design discussions are common, as you’ll often serve as a technical lead, guiding architecture decisions and ensuring alignment across teams. This collaborative approach helps ensure the protocol meets both technical and business objectives while maintaining high standards for security and performance.

What does a protocol engineer do?

A protocol engineer designs, develops, and tests communication protocols used in networking and telecommunications systems. They analyze network traffic, troubleshoot issues, and ensure protocols operate efficiently and securely, often using tools like Wi-Fi analyzers and protocol analyzers. Strong knowledge of networking standards and programming skills are essential for this role.

What does a Senior Protocol Engineer do?

A Senior Protocol Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing communication protocols that enable secure and efficient data exchange over networks or within distributed systems. They work on developing new protocols or improving existing ones, often focusing on areas like blockchain, networking, or cryptography. Their role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, troubleshooting protocol-related issues, and ensuring that protocols are robust, scalable, and secure. Additionally, they may mentor junior engineers and contribute to open-source projects or standards bodies.

Are network engineers still in demand?

Network engineers, including senior protocol engineers, are in strong demand due to ongoing needs for reliable and secure network infrastructure. Skills in routing, switching, network security, and familiarity with tools like Cisco or Juniper are highly valued, and the role often requires certifications such as CCNA or CCNP. The demand is expected to remain steady as organizations continue to expand their digital and cloud-based networks.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Protocol Engineers or highly specialized network engineers with extensive experience and advanced certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives, and typically requires expertise in network architecture, security, and protocol development.

What is the difference between Senior Protocol Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectSenior Protocol EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like CCNP, CCIEBachelor's in Computer Science, certifications like CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and optimizing network protocols, often in R&D or specialized teamsManaging and maintaining network infrastructure, troubleshooting connectivity issues
Industry UsageTelecommunications, data centers, networking hardware companiesIT departments, service providers, enterprise networks

The Senior Protocol Engineer focuses on developing and optimizing network protocols, requiring deep technical expertise. In contrast, a Network Engineer manages and maintains network infrastructure, ensuring connectivity and performance. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Protocol Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Protocol Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of network protocols, distributed systems, cryptography, and strong programming skills, typically backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with protocol design tools, languages like Rust, Go, or C++, and experience with blockchain frameworks or RFC standards are often required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills help in leading teams and navigating complex technical challenges. These abilities are crucial for designing secure, efficient protocols and ensuring reliable communication within advanced technology ecosystems.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Protocol Engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in network security, and certifications like CCNP or CISSP, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with roles in large organizations, leadership positions, or those working in high-demand industries such as technology or telecommunications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Protocol Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Protocol Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Protocol Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Senior Protocol Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Protocol Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Protocol Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Protocol Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Protocol Engineer job openings:
Senior Protocol Engineer jobs near you
Senior Protocol Officer

Senior Protocol Officer

Science Applications International Corporation

Springfield, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 210 rated it services

Job description


SAIC® is a premier Fortune 500® mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, civilian and intelligence markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Protocol Officer who will serve as a principal advisor and the lead planner for all matters of official protocol, ceremony, and diplomatic etiquette. This position operates with a high degree of autonomy and is responsible for flawlessly planning and executing high-level visits, ceremonies, and special events involving senior leadership, foreign dignitaries, and other distinguished visitors. The Senior Protocol Officer provides expert guidance to ensure all interactions adhere to international norms, cultural sensitivities, and established precedents, thereby upholding the reputation and dignity of the organization on a global stage. This role requires strategic foresight, exceptional diplomatic tact, and the ability to manage complex logistics under pressure.
Work will be performed at the customer site in Springfield, VA.
The hiring of this position is contingent upon contract award. Anticipated award is fall of 2026.
Responsibilities will include the following:
  • Serve as the primary subject matter expert and principal advisor to senior leadership on all protocol-related matters, including order of precedence, flag etiquette, forms of address, and cultural customs.
  • Lead the comprehensive planning, coordination, and execution of distinguished visitor engagements, including creating detailed itineraries, arranging secure transportation, lodging, and official entertainment.
  • Direct all aspects of official ceremonies, conferences, and formal events, overseeing everything from venue selection and seating arrangements to scriptwriting and sequence of events.
  • Function as the primary liaison with foreign embassies, government agencies, military counterparts, and other external organizations to coordinate visits and events.
  • Manage the organization's official gift program, including the selection, procurement, and presentation of appropriate gifts for foreign and domestic counterparts.
  • Develop and maintain the organization's official protocol policies and provide training to staff and leadership to ensure consistent application.
  • Oversee crisis management from a protocol perspective, adapting plans quickly and discreetly in response to unexpected schedule changes or diplomatic incidents.
  • Manage the protocol office budget, resources, and supervise junior protocol staff, interns, or volunteers.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications include:
  • Active TS/SCI is REQUIRED.
  • Willing and able to obtain a Polygraph.
  • Education: A minimum of a Master's degree in Business, Political Science, International Relations, Public Administration, or a related field. In lieu of a master's degree, the candidate must have 15+ years of direct protocol experience. Desired completion of formal training in protocol or event management (e.g., The Protocol School of Washington, George Washington University Event Management Program, or equivalent program).
  • Experience: A minimum of 10 years of dedicated, full-time experience in a protocol- focused role within a diplomatic, military, government, or international corporate environment.
  • Leadership: Demonstrated experience leading the planning and execution of large-scale, high-visibility events (e.g., summits, state dinners, formal military ceremonies).
  • Advisory Role: Proven experience serving as a direct protocol advisor to Flag Officers, Ambassadors, Cabinet-level officials, or C-suite executives.
  • Demonstrated experience planning, coordinating, and executing communication and event planning related functions for senior leadership, foreign dignitaries, diplomats, foreign military personnel, legislative, and government officials.
  • Demonstrated experience in providing on-site logistical support for events including site preparation.

Desired Qualifications include:
  • Language Skills: Proficiency in one or more foreign languages.
  • Formal Training: Completion of a recognized protocol officer training course (e.g., from the Protocol School of Washington, George Washington University Event Management Program, or a similar institution).

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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