Network Operations Lead at Csciconsulting

Job Description CSCI Consulting is looking for a Network Operations Lead to support our Federal client. In this role, the consultant will be responsible for overseeing the operation, performance, and security of the client's enterprise network environment. This role provides technical leadership across network infrastructure, Zero Trust enforcement, and secure connectivity services, ensuring reliable and compliant access to enterprise systems across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments. The Network Operations Lead collaborates with Infrastructure, ITSM, Service Desk, and Engineering teams to support mission-critical operations while maintaining alignment with Zero Trust architecture principles and federal security requirements. Responsibilities • Lead network operations activities supporting enterprise LAN/WAN, firewall, wireless, and secure access platforms • Provide technical oversight for Cisco routing/switching, Palo Alto firewalls, Zscaler (ZIA/ZPA), and Aruba wireless infrastructure • Ensure network operations align with Zero Trust principles, including identity-aware access, segmentation, and continuous monitoring • Oversee network incident monitoring, response, and resolution, including participation in Major Incident bridges for Priority 1 events • Coordinate network change management activities (ERB/CCB), including impact analysis, implementation, validation, and rollback planning • Manage firewall policy lifecycle, ensuring least-privilege enforcement, documentation, and compliance with security requirements • Monitor and optimize network performance, availability, latency, throughput, and capacity across enterprise systems • Ensure integration of network operations with ServiceNow ITSM processes, including incident, change, and CMDB management • Support continuous monitoring, alerting, and logging activities across network and security platforms • Coordinate cross-tower activities with Infrastructure, Service Desk, Security, and Engineering to resolve complex issues and improve service delivery • Develop and maintain network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, runbooks, and SOPs • Support network continuity, disaster recovery operations, and recovery execution in coordination with other task areas • Track and report performance against SLAs, KPIs, and operational metrics • Drive continuous improvement by identifying recurring network issues and implementing long-term solutions Minimum Requirements • Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience) • 10+ years of IT experience with at least 5 years in network operations, engineering, or infrastructure roles • Demonstrated experience supporting enterprise network environments, including routing, switching, and firewall operations • Strong knowledge of Zero Trust architecture, network segmentation, and secure access technologies • Experience with Cisco networking technologies, Palo Alto firewalls, Zscaler (ZIA/ZPA), and Aruba wireless infrastructure • Hands-on experience with network monitoring, incident response, and performance optimization tools • Experience supporting Change Management processes (ERB/CCB) and ITSM frameworks using ServiceNow • Ability to analyze network incidents and conduct root cause analysis for complex issues • Strong communication skills with ability to present technical issues and solutions to leadership and stakeholders • Eligibility to obtain required federal clearance (Public Trust) • Creativity and adaptability in problem-solving • Ability to work with clients to understand their needs • Strong organizational and time-management skills • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Professional presence Preferred Skills • Relevant certifications (e.g., Cisco CCNP/CCIE, Palo Alto PCNSE, Zscaler certifications, ITIL v4) • Experience supporting Zero Trust network implementations and identity-integrated access controls • Familiarity with ServiceNow integration across ITSM and CMDB processes • Experience with network monitoring, logging, and analytics tools (e.g., SNMP, NetFlow, Syslog) • Experience in federal IT environments with compliance, audit, and cybersecurity requirements • Background in hybrid cloud networking (Azure, Microsoft 365 integration) • Experience supporting disaster recovery and continuity of operations for enterprise networks • Strong analytical skills with ability to identify trends and drive network performance improvements • Ability to work in a team environment, as well as independently • Strong customer and vendor relationship skills • Demonstrated ability to comply with data standards and policies • Motivation to learn new technologies and methodologies that demonstrate value • Past experience working with a Federal agency • Federal network experience is a plus! About CSCI CSCI is an award-winning information technology and financial management consulting firm founded on one simple philosophy: “Do what is right, always.” We apply this philosophy across all elements of our growing business, from delivering world-class services for customers to providing an environment where associates thrive both personally and professionally. At CSCI, work and fun aren’t diametrically opposed! At CSCI, our goal is to hire people with proven track records and retain them with an energizing, diverse company culture. We value each associate’s natural drive to excel, and we provide them with the freedom to do things their way. CSCI seeks the best and brightest in the industry—those who are ready to move their lives and career forward. Join us today and get excited about Mondays again! Benefits of Working at CSCI • Competitive salaries • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) package • Paid holidays aligned to the Federal calendar • Full health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance • 401(k) retirement plan • Team building events • Professional development support Legal CSCI complies with all applicable Federal, state, and local employment regulations. Please reach out to [Upgrade to PRO to see contact] with any questions. Equal Employment Opportunity All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. CSCI provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act. If you require an accommodation, please contact CSCI Human Resources for further assistance. For questions regarding the qualifications listed above, please contact the CSCI Recruiting Team. E-Verify CSCI participates in E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. For more information, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify. California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) Notice As part of the application and recruitment process, CSCI Consulting, Inc. may collect personal information as described under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). This information is collected solely for employment-related purposes, including evaluating your qualifications, processing your application, and complying with legal obligations. By applying to this position, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the following notice regarding the collection of your personal information as a job applicant: • Categories of Information Collected: Personal identifiers, employment history, educational information, and any other information provided in your application or as part of the interview process. • Purposes for Collecting Information: To review your application, assess your qualifications, and manage the hiring process. • Retention and Security: Information collected will be retained indefinitely and will be securely stored and handled in accordance with CCPA guidelines and CSCI Consulting, Inc. policies. • Rights of Applicants: Under CCPA, California residents have the right to request information about the personal data we collect, delete it, and request restrictions on certain uses. However, some information may be retained as required by law. For further information, or to exercise your rights under the CCPA, please contact CSCI’s HR team. Disclaimer The above declarations are not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job described, nor are they intended to be such a listing of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Rather, they are intended only to describe the general nature of the job.