SkyGrid, a Boeing SparkCognition Company, exists to open the sky for autonomous flight. Based in Austin, Texas, SkyGrid builds high-assurance third-party services to enable the safe operations and airspace integration of autonomous aircraft. SkyGrid also acts as a key operational nexus for advanced air mobility, integrating and managing data, infrastructure, access, and traffic to support seamless and efficient air traffic services. 

The SkyGrid team is looking for a Principal Network Architect who will be responsible for the design and ownership of a robust hybrid, distributed, and cloud-based, network architecture in collaboration with IPT leads, Software and System architect..This role involves complete responsibility for network topology and conducting necessary trade studies to inform analysis and decision-making related to the system design deliverables. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in network architecture and experience leading complex systems integration in mission-critical environments in multidisciplinary environments.

Performance Objectives: 

- Complete the topology and technological trades associated to the network architecture.
- Complete t network architecture design, ensuring alignment with mission-critical requirements.
- Validate the architecture against the scalability, redundancy and security requirements. Provide support and evidence supporting the certification approach.

Responsibilities:  

- Network Architecture and Design:
- Design and implement network architectures that support mission-critical ground-based aerospace systems.
- Develop scalable, high-availability solutions to meet system requirements, including redundancy, failover, and load balancing.
- Ensure the network design adheres to aerospace industry standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA, ICAO).
- System Integration:
- Integrate the internet based and ground-based data (traffic, weather, aeronautical data) from supplier.
- Coordinate the network architecture effort across the teams.

Network Infrastructure Planning: Plan and design new network infrastructure expansions or upgrades, considering future scalability, bandwidth needs, and latency requirements. Collaborate with third-party vendors and internal teams to ensure that the network architecture aligns with hardware and software specifications. Complete the supplier evaluation and recommended services level agreements and hardware components.

Security Architecture: Design secure network architectures that meet stringent aerospace security requirements, ensuring data integrity, availability, and confidentiality. Implement security measures like encryption, intrusion detection systems (IDS), firewalls, and VPNs as part of the architecture. Ensure compliance with cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST, CIS).  Plan and execute the safety and security validation activities. Leadership Plan the activities and report the status of the execution to the CE and the CPM Coordinate the activities across the design IPT, qualification and simulation teams Coordinate the architecture design with System and Software architects Flow down the plan and the direction to the team.

Qualifications:  

- Bachelor’s degree in, Electrical, Computer, or related STEM degree from an accredited university or college.
- 15+ years of related experience, preferably in the aerospace or telecom industry.
- 7+ years of experience in leading multi-disciplinary team, SME, senior engineers and architects.
- Experience with network design and simulation tools like Cisco Packet Tracer, SolarWinds, GNS3, or equivalent tools.
- Experience with Visio or Lucid charts creating block diagrams, schematics, etc.
- Deep knowledge of routing and switching protocols (OSPF, BGP, MPLS).
- Experience with virtual LANs (VLANs) and network segmentation.
- Proficiency in firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, and other security technologies.
- Experience with securing network architectures, including encryption protocols, SSL/TLS, and multi-factor authentication.
- Proficiency in network monitoring and performance tools (e.g., Wireshark, SNMP, NetFlow).
- Ability to troubleshoot complex network issues using diagnostic tools.
- Familiarity with aviation-related networking standards and technologies (ADS-B, radar integration, real-time systems).
- Experience working with aerospace communication protocols.
- Experience with hybrid network designs that include both on-premises and cloud-based resources (AWS, Azure).
- Strong communication skills, self-driven and capable of participating in senior leadership discussions. 
- Strong presentation skills with the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. 
- Able to work effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications: 

- Advanced Engineering degree (Masters) from an accredited institution 
- Familiarity with DO-160/DO-280, DO-254, etc.

Join Our Team and Enjoy Exceptional Benefits:

- Comprehensive Health Coverage from Day One: Enjoy immediate access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, including HSA and FSA options.
- Generous Retirement Contributions: Benefit from an automatic company 401k contribution program, with no match required, plus an additional company matching program to boost your retirement savings.
- Headspace Annual Membership: Prioritize your mental health with complimentary access to mindfulness and meditation resources.
- Discounted ClassPass Membership: Stay active and healthy with access to thousands of fitness studios and gyms nationwide.
- Investment in Your Growth: Receive an annual stipend for learning and development to support your continuous education and skill development
- Engaging Team Activities: Participate in quarterly team-building events and celebrations organized by our dedicated culture committee.
- Fully Stocked Kitchen: Enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day.

SkyGrid jobs

Principal Network Architect