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Software Defined Networking Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

IT Network Engineer

Holbrook, AZ · On-site

$69K - $86K/yr

Knowledge of Software Defined Networking Concepts. Knowledge of Meraki wireless and VPN technologies. Knowledge of basic Analog Phone communications. Knowledge of VoIP Gateways/SBCs and Teams Direct ...

Network Operations Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Hands-on experience with VMware NSX or software-defined networking (SDN) * Experience building and enforcing network security policies * Proficiency with network troubleshooting and monitoring tools ...

Network Engineer Senior

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$97K - $142K/yr

Experience with Software Defined Networking * Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise or higher * Cisco Certified Internet Expert (CCIE) Job Contributions * Design, configure, test ...

... Software Defined Network and Firewall infrastructure. o 3+ years of experience as a system administrator working with Data Center migrations, server upgrades, O/S and firmware patching, and system ...

Cloud Security Engineer Manager

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$142K/yr

Familiarity with technologies such as Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and containers. * Experience designing and managing firewalls or other network segmentation ...

Cloud Security Engineer Manager

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$137K/yr

Familiarity with technologies such as Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and containers. * Experience designing and managing firewalls or other network segmentation ...

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Showing results 1-20

Software Defined Networking information

What is software defined networking (SDN)?

Software Defined Networking (SDN) is a network architecture approach that separates the control plane from the data plane in networking equipment. This means that the network intelligence and policy-making are centralized in a software-based SDN controller, rather than being distributed across individual hardware devices. SDN allows for easier network management, programmability, and automation, making it possible to quickly adapt to changing business needs and optimize network resources. Organizations use SDN to improve network efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enable innovation in network services.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in software defined networking (SDN)?

Professionals in Software Defined Networking often encounter challenges such as integrating SDN solutions with existing legacy infrastructure, ensuring network security in dynamically programmable environments, and keeping up with rapidly evolving protocols and technologies. Collaboration between network engineers, software developers, and IT security teams is critical for successful deployment and management of SDN systems. Staying current with industry standards and effective troubleshooting are also important daily aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software defined networking (SDN) engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Defined Networking (SDN) Engineer, you need a strong background in computer networking, programming (such as Python or Java), and a relevant degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Familiarity with SDN controllers (like OpenDaylight or ONOS), virtualization platforms, and certifications such as Cisco CCNP or equivalent are highly valued. Excellent problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help set professionals apart in designing and managing complex, dynamic networks. These skills and qualifications are vital for building scalable, automated networks that support business agility and innovation.

What is the difference between Software Defined Networking vs Network Engineer?

AspectSoftware Defined NetworkingNetwork Engineer
Primary FocusAutomating and centralizing network management through softwareDesigning, implementing, and maintaining physical and virtual networks
Required SkillsNetworking protocols, virtualization, scripting, software developmentNetworking protocols, hardware configuration, troubleshooting
CertificationsCisco CCNA/CCNP, VMware, Cisco DevNetCCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentData centers, cloud environments, software development teamsCorporate offices, data centers, client sites

While Software Defined Networking focuses on software-based network management and automation, Network Engineers handle the physical and virtual network infrastructure. Both roles require networking knowledge, but SDN emphasizes programming and software skills, whereas Network Engineers focus on hardware and network configuration.

What are popular job titles related to Software Defined Networking jobs in Arizona?

For Software Defined Networking jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Defined Networking jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Defined Networking jobs in Arizona are:

Infographic showing various Software Defined Networking job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Network Operations Engineer

SwitchThink Solutions LLC

Phoenix, AZ • Hybrid

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Who We Are  

SwitchThink Solutions is a fast-growing technology company supporting our parent organization, Desert Financial Credit Union, and more than 175 external credit unions nationwide. Our solutions are built on the Correlation Keystone Platform and complemented by managed services, cloud hosting, disaster recovery, business intelligence, and AI offerings.   

Our clients trust us. We have maintained zero customer churn for eight years and consistently earn strong client advocacy, with an NPS of 84. Our employees are equally committed, bringing a collaborative, team-oriented mindset and a shared passion for excellence. Backed by the financial strength of Desert Financial Credit Union, we offer stability alongside meaningful growth opportunities.  

Who We Are Looking For 

The Network Operations Engineer is responsible for maintaining and monitoring functional and secure computer networks, including local area and multi-tenant networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), the internet, intranets, and other data communication systems. Maintains standards, tests, and evaluates networks and security. This is a hybrid role located in Phoenix, Arizona. 

What you will do here:

  • Maintains network and security solutions maintaining highly available, standardized, and regulated datacenters and distributed networks.
  • Implement highly secure network solutions leveraging networking tools including VMware, Cisco IOS, Palo Alto Firewalls, Load Balancers, wireless access points, and SD-WAN solutions.
  • Support CUSO Client VPN implementations and support vendor and client connectivity.
  • Analyze, isolate, and remediate issues and monitor networks to ensure security, availability, and performance,
  • Leverage advanced networking protocols to strategically drive the networking environment to drive scalable solutions.
  • Support multi-carrier WAN network connecting 50+ branch locations and a growing number of external clients located across the country.
  • Implements and supports CUSO client VPNs implementation for vendors and client location connectivity.
  • Protecting data, software and hardware by coordinating, planning, and implementing network security measures.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

What you will need:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or other related topic (preferred) OR equivalent combination of education and experience required.
  • 6+ years Network Operations, Network Engineering, Data Center Management required.
  • 4+ years experience with Management of Palo Alto Firewalls required.
  • 4+ years experience working in a regulated environment providing SOX, PCI, SSAE, NCUA, or FDIC governance required.
  • 1+ years experience in Server administration, Security administration, Cloud and emerging technologies such as Software Defined Networks required.
  • Deep understanding of routing and switching protocols in a highly available data center environment required.
  • Deep knowledge of supporting infrastructure related disaster recovery scenarios
  • Expertise managing Software defined networking leveraging VMWare NSX required.
  • Expertise constructing security policies using Palo Alto Firewalls required.
  • Technical problem solving ability using tools including WireShark, vRealize Network Insight, and Panorama required.
  • Demonstrated ability to work well within a team environment required.
  • Excellent communication skills required.
  • Cisco CCNA, CCNP, or CCIE required.
  • Palo Alto PCNSA required.
  • Cisco VoIP or other technical certifications preferred.

What We Offer  

  • A collaborative, people-first environment where your expertise directly shapes technology solutions that support credit unions and the communities they serve. At SwitchThink, you’ll work alongside experienced, mission driven professionals who value curiosity, thoughtful problem-solving, and delivering meaningful outcomes for clients. 
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, paired with strong opportunities for professional growth and long-term career development. 
  • Flexibility that supports real work life balance, including generous paid time off, paid holidays, and flexible scheduling. 
  • Exposure to modern, enterprise scale technology solutions, including cloud platforms, business intelligence, and AI enabled services within a regulated financial services environment. 
  • Ongoing investment in your development through training, certifications, continuous learning, and clearly defined career pathways—supported by the stability of our credit union foundation and the innovation of a growing technology organization. 

Job Location: Phoenix, Arizona

Job Type: Hybrid 

Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. 

Unlock the possibilities!  

For additional information about our organization, careers, and benefits visit: https://jobs.desertfinancial.com/switchthink/us/en/search-results 

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

#LI-Hybrid