Computer Network Architect

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Network Architect to lead network engineering efforts at the Federal Highway Administration's Saxton Transportation Operations Laboratory. This hands-on role involves owning the OT/IT network infrastructure for our connected-vehicle testbed, encompassing administration, security authorization documentation, and vulnerability remediation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, configure, administer, and troubleshoot complex networks including switches, routers, firewalls, wireless systems, VPNs, and remote-site connectivity.
• Manage Layer 2/Layer 3 networking functions such as VLANs, routing, subnetting, ACLs, NAT, segmentation, and IP addressing.
• Maintain network services like DNS, DHCP, NTP, PTP/IEEE 1588, GPS timing, and remote connectivity solutions.
• Monitor network health metrics including availability, latency, and performance; utilize tools such as Wireshark/tcpdump, SNMP, syslog, and packet captures for advanced troubleshooting.
• Maintain comprehensive configurations, backups, firmware updates, certificates, device inventories, IP plans, port maps, and accurate network diagrams.
• Install and troubleshoot fiber/copper infrastructure to support connectivity for field-deployed RSUs, edge nodes, traffic systems, and remote sites.
• Schedule and execute network changes, upgrades, and equipment replacements adhering to established change-control practices.
• Operate and maintain the Smart Garage and connected-vehicle testbeds, integrating RSUs, OBUs, signal controllers, edge platforms, and research equipment.
• Configure and troubleshoot connectivity standards including C-V2X PC5/Uu, 5G NR, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, fiber, and cellular/backhaul networks.
• Translate complex research requirements into precise network configurations while maintaining environments in known, repeatable states for experiments.
• Support laboratory experiments, field testing, demonstrations, and troubleshooting across all layers from network to application.
• Maintain security posture by documenting the ATO (Authority to Operate) and ongoing RMF (Risk Management Framework) activities.
• Develop and maintain current architecture diagrams, boundary maps, data-flow charts, inventories, and authorization artifacts for compliance.
• Create, track, and close out network-related Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms), coordinating remediation efforts effectively.
• Analyze vulnerability findings affecting OS, network, and edge infrastructure; implement or coordinate fixes via patches, firmware upgrades, configuration changes, or compensating controls.
• Deploy security controls including segmentation, firewall/ACL policies, VPNs, secure administrative access, and IT/OT boundary protections.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity teams, ISSO/ISSM personnel on continuous monitoring and adherence to NIST SP 800-53/800-82 requirements.
• Provide support for testing across concurrent R&D projects, lab demonstrations, field deployments, and high-stakes stakeholder events.
• Maintain rigorous safety practices when working with network equipment, RF systems, vehicles, cabling, and roadside infrastructure during operations and special events.