Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a skilled Network Architect with experience in assessing, designing, and architecting data center network infrastructures (Cisco-centric) and AWS cloud environments. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in creating both high- and low-level technical solutions and establishing robust technical architectures. Expertise in evaluating, designing, and implementing Cisco network solutions, data center architecture, and a strong understanding of modern networking technologies like automation, SDN, and virtualization is essential.

Indicative Activities

Collaborate with stakeholders to understand the requirements for the data center's network, such as capacity, scalability, redundancy, and security.
Coordinate with physical infrastructure teams to ensure that cabling and other physical elements align with the network design.
Asses, design and implement scalable and high-performance network architectures using Cisco Nexus switches considering factors such as redundancy, fault tolerance, and load balancing.
Plan for high availability, including redundant power supplies, network links, and devices to minimize downtime.
Asses, design and implement security controls, including segmentation, firewalls, and intrusion prevention systems (IPS), ensuring data center infrastructure is resilient to cyber threats.
Ensure the network design supports scalability to accommodate future growth in terms of bandwidth, devices, and traffic.
Ensure the network is capable of handling projected data traffic growth by planning for bandwidth, latency, and connectivity requirements.
Prepare comprehensive documentation for the network design, including topologies, configurations, and network management plans.
Ensure the network design supports both physical and virtualized environments (e.g., virtual machines, containers) and integrates with storage, compute, and security systems.
Create a detailed network topology, including Leaf and Spine architecture, considering factors like redundancy, failover, and load balancing.
Decide on the type of network protocols and technologies (e.g., SDN, VLAN, BGP, MPLS).
Select appropriate hardware (switches, routers, network interfaces) and software (network management tools, security solutions, etc.).
Estimate the required number of network devices (e.g., switches, routers) and other networking resources.
Choose vendors based on compatibility, cost, and performance.
Configure and deploy Cisco Nexus switches to support the data center network’s needs.
Implement a spine-leaf architecture or other modern network fabrics to optimize network performance and scalability.
Implement segmentation strategies, such as VLANs, VXLAN, VRFs, and ACLs, to ensure security and compliance within the data center.
Evaluate and recommend solutions for network monitoring, management and automation.
Establish network configuration standards and best practices for deployment.
Oversee the installation and configuration of network devices and software, ensuring that they are properly integrated.
Conduct network performance testing (e.g., throughput, latency, fault tolerance) to ensure that the design meets requirements.
Run stress tests to simulate traffic and ensure the network can handle peak loads.
Work with management to estimate the cost of network infrastructure and ensure it aligns with budget constraints.

Technical Skills

Must Have:

Minimum of [14 years] of experience experienced in network architecture, design, and implementation, with a focus on data center networks specifically banking domain.
In-depth understanding of IP addressing, subnetting, and routing concepts.
Expert level knowledge in Routing & switching specially around Cisco Nexus.
Expertise in routing between different networks, especially in large-scale data centers.
Knowledge of interior and exterior gateway routing protocols used in large networks.
Strong Knowledge of network security concepts and technologies
Proficiency with enterprise-grade firewalls (e.g., Palo Alto, Cisco, Fortinet) and security appliances for protecting data center networks.
Ability to segment networks logically to improve security, manageability, and performance.
Domain knowledge of SP technologies like MPLS, Dark Fiber, Metro ethernet, Segment routing
Understanding how MPLS enables efficient routing and traffic engineering.
Domain knowledge in both hardware and software load balancing (e.g., F5, NGINX) and high-availability architectures for distributing network traffic efficiently.
Knowledge of overlay network protocols (VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN) for creating scalable, multi-tenant virtual networks.
Knowledge of network cabling types (e.g., CAT5e, CAT6, fiber optics) and their proper implementation in a data center environment.
Maintain comprehensive documentation for network designs, configurations, policies, and operational procedures.
Solution walkthrough with clients and co-ordinate with SMEs to implement the same.

Good To Have

Asses, design and implement scalable and high-performance network architectures using ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure). considering factors such as redundancy, fault tolerance, and load balancing.
Knowledge of managing Infoblox, F5 and other network security devices
Familiarity with SDN principles for network automation, flexibility, and programmability.
Familiarity with automating network configuration and management tasks.
Understanding how AI/ML can be applied to optimize network performance, predict failures, and enhance security.
Familiarity with how new technologies like 5G and edge computing can influence data center network designs.

Process Skills

Preparing Bill of material, solution presentation, solution document.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to define the solution roadmap and milestones.
Work on strategic projects that enhance current solution concepts and/or the creation of new ones.
Contribute to the knowledge base of solutions and services by sharing best practices and lessons learnt with clients.
Engage in change management and capacity planning activities.

Behavioral Skills

Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the capacity to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Adaptability and a keen aptitude for learning in a dynamic environment.
Effective time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently.

Qualification

A professional with a minimum of 14 years of experience in assessing, designing, and architecting network infrastructure, AWS Cloud solutions, and Data Center environments (with a focus on Cisco technologies).
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field.
Preferred certifications in CCIE or Equivalent.
Preferred prior experience working for Large Enterprise banking client.

Skills: mpls,load balancing,aws cloud,configuration management,vlan,nexus,security,cisco nexus,routing,vxlan,f5,switching,network monitoring,sdn,virtualization,documentation,cisco,automation,data center network design,network architecture,network security

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