WAN Architect SME - Remote

We are seeking a highly skilled WAN Architect SME to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of Wide Area Network (WAN) infrastructure in support of the USCIS enterprise network environment. The SME will provide expert-level architectural guidance to modernize and secure USCIS's distributed network systems across data centers, field offices, and cloud environments.

This role includes evaluating current WAN architecture, developing future-state designs, supporting cloud connectivity (e.g., AWS, Azure), ensuring compliance with DHS cybersecurity mandates, and serving as a trusted advisor to senior USCIS IT leadership on all WAN-related matters.

Responsibilities

Lead the architectural design, planning, and implementation of WAN infrastructure to support USCIS enterprise systems and field office connectivity.

Provide SME-level guidance for routing, switching, MPLS, SD-WAN, VPN, and cross-domain connectivity (on-prem to cloud).

Design and support secure, scalable, and highly available WAN architectures that meet mission and performance requirements.

Conduct WAN performance analysis, capacity planning, failover analysis, and network optimization.

Collaborate with cybersecurity, infrastructure, and cloud teams to ensure secure and compliant data transmission in accordance with DHS / USCIS policy.

Evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., SASE, ZTNA, IPv6) and recommend enhancements aligned with modernization and Zero Trust initiatives.

Develop and maintain WAN architecture documentation including topology diagrams, design artifacts, SOPs, and standards.

Support enterprise initiatives such as cloud migration, telework enablement, application modernization, and disaster recovery planning.

Interface with USCIS stakeholders, DHS OCIO, and external carriers to coordinate WAN service delivery, performance SLAs, and issue resolution.

Support the development of WAN-related ATO packages, security assessments, and change control documentation.

Qualifications

U.S. Citizenship (required for federal contract compliance).

Active DHS Public Trust clearance or ability to obtain; Secret / Top Secret preferred.

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).

10+ years of experience in network engineering or architecture, with a strong focus on WAN infrastructure.

Expert knowledge of WAN technologies and protocols, including :

MPLS, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, QoS

SD-WAN technologies (e.g., Cisco Viptela, Silver Peak, Meraki, Fortinet)

IPsec VPNs, GRE, DMVPN

Experience designing and supporting large-scale enterprise or federal WANs.

Familiarity with cloud-based networking (AWS Direct Connect, Azure ExpressRoute) and hybrid networking strategies.

Deep understanding of network security architecture, encryption, and DHS TIC (Trusted Internet Connections) 3.0 guidelines.

Strong communication and documentation skills for both technical and executive-level audiences.

Desired Qualifications :

Experience supporting DHS, USCIS, or other federal civilian agencies.

Professional certifications such as :

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or Expert (CCIE - Enterprise Infrastructure or Security).

Juniper Networks Certified Specialist (JNCIS) or higher.

AWS or Azure Networking Specialty Certification.

CompTIA Security+, CASP+, or CISSP.

Experience with SDN (Software-Defined Networking), network automation, and orchestration tools (e.g., Ansible, Python scripting).

Knowledge of ITIL, NIST SP 800-53, RMF, and FISMA compliance processes.

Familiarity with Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), SASE, and DHS reference architectures.

Job ID

2025-19835

Work Type

On-Site

Company Description

Work Where it Matters

Truestone, an Akima company, is not just another federal lifecycle solutions contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.

At Truestone, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.

For our shareholders , Truestone provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.

For our government customers , Truestone delivers everything from requirements and design to operations, logistics, and support at every lifecycle stage for complex systems and networks.

As a Truestone employee , you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

We are an equal opportunity employer and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. All applicants will receive consideration for employment, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender or gender-identity, age, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability, pregnancy or parental status, or any other basis prohibited by law. If you are an individual with a disability, or have known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us at job-assist@akima.com or 571-353-7053 (information about job applications status is not available at this contact information).