Cisco Network Architect (CCIE)

About the Role

We are seeking a highly experienced Cisco Network Architect (CCIE) to design, implement, optimise and support complex enterprise and service provider networks.

This senior technical role requires extensive expertise in Cisco networking, advanced routing and switching, network security, high availability and enterprise network architecture. You will provide Level 3 and Level 4 escalation support while leading network transformation, infrastructure modernisation and complex troubleshooting initiatives.

Working closely with technical teams, solution architects, vendors and customers, you will deliver secure, resilient and high-performing network infrastructure. You will also help establish technical standards, review architectural designs and mentor fellow network engineers. The role calls for CCIE-level technical capability supported by strong hands-on engineering and delivery experience.

About the Client

You will be working with an established IT consultancy with more than two decades of experience delivering Cisco-focused technology solutions. The organisation is committed to simplifying complex IT challenges through practical, customer-focused consulting, high-quality service delivery and reliable network solutions that help businesses maximise the value of their technology investments.

Ideal Profile

Professional Experience

At least 8 years of hands-on experience in enterprise or service provider networking.

Extensive experience configuring, managing and troubleshooting Cisco enterprise infrastructure.

Proven ability to design and manage large, complex, multi-site networks.

Experience supporting international customers and collaborating with geographically distributed technical teams.

Background in an MSP, systems integrator or enterprise managed services environment is advantageous.

Networking & Technical Expertise

Advanced knowledge of routing, switching, network security and high availability.

Strong understanding of TCP/IP, OSI networking principles and enterprise network architecture.

Practical experience with BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, routing policies and network optimisation.

Proficiency in MPLS, VRF, VXLAN, QoS, multicast and resilient network design.

Hands-on expertise with Cisco Catalyst and Nexus platforms, including IOS, IOS XE and NX-OS.

Experience with Cisco ASA, Cisco Secure Firewall, VPNs and secure enterprise connectivity.

Knowledge of Cisco ISE, network segmentation and identity-based access controls.

Familiarity with network monitoring platforms such as Cisco Catalyst Center, SolarWinds, PRTG or equivalent.

Strong packet capture, protocol analysis and root cause investigation capabilities.

Automation & Emerging Technologies

Familiarity with Python, Ansible, REST APIs and network automation frameworks.

Understanding of configuration management, network programmability and infrastructure-as-code practices.

Exposure to software-defined networking initiatives.

Preferred Certifications & Additional Experience

Active CCIE certification, preferably in Enterprise Infrastructure, Security, Data Center or Service Provider, is highly desirable.

CCNP Enterprise, Security or Data Center, or CCDE certification.

Relevant Microsoft Azure or AWS cloud networking certifications.

ITIL Foundation or an equivalent service management certification.

Experience with Cisco Meraki, Catalyst SD-WAN, SD-Access and Cisco ACI.

Knowledge of hybrid cloud networking across Microsoft Azure and AWS.

Exposure to Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet or other enterprise security platforms.

Experience developing technical solutions, statements of work and implementation plans.

Proven involvement in major network migrations, upgrades and transformation projects.

Communication & Professional Capabilities

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Excellent analytical thinking and advanced problem-solving abilities.

High levels of ownership, accountability and customer service.

Ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Strong technical documentation and design review capabilities.

Effective collaboration with customers, vendors and distributed teams.

Ability to mentor other engineers and remain composed when managing critical incidents.

Responsibilities

Network Architecture & Design

Design enterprise, data centre, campus and WAN network solutions that align with business and technical requirements.

Lead network assessments, architecture reviews, capacity planning and infrastructure modernisation initiatives.

Develop high-level and low-level designs, network diagrams, implementation plans and configuration documentation.

Establish network standards, security baselines and consistent configuration practices.

Routing, Switching & Infrastructure Delivery

Deploy, configure and troubleshoot Cisco routing and switching infrastructure.

Design and resolve complex routing environments