Network Architect

Role : in capacity of Network Architect Place of posting: Chennai & Hyderabad Educational Qualification: BE/B.Tech (CSE, ECE/IT) or M.E/M.Tech or MCA/MSc (CS) with science background. Experience: Minimum post-qualification experience of 10 -15 years, in the relevant areas Job Summary: We are seeking a seasoned and technically sound Senior IT Networks to lead the architecture, implementation, modernization, and governance of our enterprise-wide network infrastructure. The role will focus strictly on networking technologies, with no involvement in server, storage, or compute domains. You will ensure secure, high-performance, and resilient connectivity across on-premises and cloud environments using cutting-edge technologies like SDN, SD-WAN, ACI, and cloud-native networking solutions. Key Responsibilities: 1. Network Strategy, Design & Implementation Lead the end-to-end design, deployment, and management of enterprise LAN, WAN, campus, and branch connectivity using next-generation networking architectures Architect and operationalize SD-WAN solutions to optimize branch and remote office connectivity with centralized control and dynamic path selection Deploy and manage SDN technologies (e.g., Cisco ACI, VMware NSX) for policy-based, application-aware networking within data centers and enterprise campuses Ensure highly available, low-latency connectivity for mission-critical financial applications, with strong emphasis on redundancy and failover Implement cloud-native and hybrid networking architectures, ensuring seamless and secure integration between on-premises infrastructure and public cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) Ensure adherence to network segmentation and zero-trust security models in all deployments 2. Network Security & Resiliency Design and enforce multi-layered network security using advanced firewalls (NGFWs), segmentation, access controls, and threat prevention systems Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to align with organization-wide security policies, regulatory compliance (RBI, IRDAI), and threat mitigation frameworks Implement high-availability architectures and dynamic routing to ensure 99.999% uptime for all core network functions 3. Network Operations & Automation Drive network automation for provisioning, configuration management, and monitoring using tools like Ansible, Python, Terraform, and REST APIs Integrate AI/ML-based network analytics platforms to enable predictive maintenance, auto-remediation, and performance tuning Continuously improve network observability using telemetry, SNMP, and flow-based tools (e.g., NetFlow, sFlow) 4. Vendor Management & Technology Leadership Lead RFP processes for selection of network equipment, SD-WAN providers, and cloud connectivity vendors Engage with OEMs like Cisco, Palo Alto, VMware, Fortinet, and Juniper to evaluate, adopt, and upgrade to the latest network innovations Drive PoCs for emerging technologies like SASE, AI-driven networking, and 5G-based enterprise connectivity Monitor the global networking landscape to future-proof the organizations connectivity strategy Essential Technical Skills: Protocols & Technologies: Deep expertise in BGP, OSPF, MPLS, QoS, VRF, EVPN, VXLAN, IPsec, GRE, NAT Software-Defined Networking: Cisco ACI, SD-WAN (Viptela/Meraki), NSX, intent-based networking Cloud Networking: AWS Transit Gateway, Azure Virtual WAN, cloud-native firewalls, VPNs, ExpressRoute, Direct Connect Security: NGFWs, segmentation, access control, zero-trust networking, network-level threat detection Automation & Monitoring: Python, Ansible, Terraform, NetConf, REST APIs, SNMP, telemetry tools Preferred Certifications: CCNA/CCNP/CCIE (Enterprise Infrastructure or Data Center) AWS/Azure/GCP Networking Certification Cisco DevNet, VMware NSX CISSP (for network security focus) Key Competencies: Strategic Leadership: Ability to define and execute long-term network modernization strategies aligned with business needs Hands-On Technical Expertise: Deep practical knowledge in configuring, troubleshooting, and optimizing complex networks Vendor & Partner Management: Strong negotiation and collaboration skills with OEMs and service providers Domain Knowledge: Solid understanding of financial services networking needs, including security, compliance, and real-time performance requirements