Network Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Position Overview 

We are seeking an experienced Network Subject Matter Expert (SME) to design, implement, secure, and optimize complex enterprise network environments. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in advanced routing and switching technologies, data center and WAN architecture design, modern network security, and SDN solutions. This role involves leading critical Layer 3 escalations, performing deep packet inspection, and guiding strategic improvements across the global network. 

Key Responsibilities 

Network Architecture & Design 

• Design scalable and resilient data centre, WAN, and campus network architectures aligned with business and operational requirements. 
• Develop and maintain highavailability network solutions supporting enterprise applications, cloud workloads, and hybrid environments. 
• Provide architectural guidance on VLAN segmentation, QoS policies, and hierarchical network models. 

Advanced Routing & Switching 

• Configure and troubleshoot BGP, OSPF, MPLS, VRFs, STP, HSRP/VRRP, and other routing/switching protocols. 
• Optimize routing policies for performance, redundancy, and traffic engineering. 
• Lead complex Layer 2/Layer 3 investigations, including root cause analysis using deep packet inspection tools (Wireshark/TCPdump). 

Network Security & Zero Trust 

• Manage and optimize enterprise-grade security technologies including firewalls (Palo Alto/Cisco/Checkpoint), VPNs, IPS/IDS, and network access control. 
• Support and guide Zero Trust architectural principles across network components. 
• Ensure compliance with industry security frameworks and internal security policies. 

Modern Network Technologies 

• Support and design solutions leveraging Software-Defined Networking (SDN) technologies such as:  
• Cisco ACI 
• VMware NSX 
• Integrate cloud networking constructs (AWS/Azure/GCP) with onprem infrastructure. 
• Utilize basic scripting and network automation (Python, Ansible, Terraform) to streamline configuration and operational tasks. 

Operational Excellence 

• Serve as the primary escalation point for highseverity network issues, driving resolution and postincident analysis. 
• Develop detailed engineering documentation, SOPs, and topology diagrams. 
• Collaborate with crossfunctional teams including security, cloud, compute, application, and operations teams. 
• Mentor network engineers and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. 

Required Skills & Experience 

• 8+ years of experience in enterprise networking, with significant handson expertise in routing, switching, and network security. 
• Strong understanding of BGP, OSPF, MPLS, QoS, VLANs, and Layer 2/Layer 3 technologies. 
• Hands-on experience with firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, and modern security frameworks. 
• Experience with SDN technologies (ACI, NSX) and cloud network integration. 
• Familiarity with automation frameworks (Python scripting, Ansible, or similar). 
• Advanced troubleshooting skills and proficiency with packet analysis tools. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Professional certifications such as CCNP/CCIE, JNCIP/JNCIE, PCNSE, or cloud networking certifications. 
• Experience designing large-scale global enterprise networks. 
• Prior involvement in Zero Trust or segmentation transformation programs. 

Soft Skills 

• Strong analytical and problemsolving ability. 
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management. 
• Ability to lead crossfunctional technical discussions and influence network strategy.