Federal Network Support Engineer (Tier 1.5) - Swing

Intermediate Federal Network Support Engineer to provide intermediate-level technical infrastructure and software services support for the Azure Core Networking team within Government Cloud environments. This role bridges Tier 1 operational support with Tier 2 specialized technical expertise, supporting 24x7 operations (shift work) for critical networking infrastructure across secure federal facilities including PhysNet, FPN, ExpressRoute, VPN, and advanced network services. Work hours are 5PM-1:30AM - On-Site Only.

Key Responsibilities

Advanced Operational Support

• Lead triage and mitigation of moderate complexity Livesite incidents, customer-reported incidents, and deployment incidents
• Perform optical SPAN monitoring and mitigations for network performance optimization
• Support WAN incidents and coordinate resolution activities
• Execute end-to-end deployment of Microsoft ExpressRoute devices for specific sites, including onboarding to GWM
• Validate and troubleshoot buildout configurations before production deployment
• Support PulseVPN and Webportal implementations for Fairfax environments
• Coordinate HWProxy and Scripting Framework work supports for AZN Systems

Technical Problem-Solving

• Conduct root cause analysis on recurring incidents and develop preventive measures
• Issue Letters of Authorization (LOAs) and perform operational readiness tests with Microsoft partners
• Support Decom activities including networking decom for federal cloud environments
• Provide technical guidance to Tier 1 engineers during complex incidents
• Contribute advanced troubleshooting guides and technical documentation to knowledge base

Collaboration & Escalation Management

• Serve as primary escalation point for Tier 1 support teams
• Coordinate with Microsoft partners (ATT, BT, Verizon, Equinix, etc.) on capacity planning and onboarding
• Manage end-to-end contract sign-off process for new Microsoft Partners
• Escalate highly complex or specialized issues to Tier 2 with comprehensive documentation
• Participate in post-incident reviews and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives

Minimum Qualifications

• Associates Degree or equivalent relevant experience; Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or a related field preferred.
• 4+ years of experience in network operations or technical support

Security Requirements

• Active Secret level clearance
• Able to obtain CJIS background check
• US Citizenship; no dual citizenship.
• Active U.S. Passport booklet.

Required Certifications (One or more)

• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Security+
• Azure AZ-900

Preferred Qualifications

• Microsoft Azure certifications (Azure Network Engineer Associate or equivalent)
• Experience with federal government cloud environments
• Cisco CCNP or equivalent networking certification
• Prior experience in managed service provider (MSP) or cloud operations environment

Primary Job Specific Skills

• Understanding of enterprise networking concepts including routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), MPLS, VPN technologies
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Azure networking services (ExpressRoute, VPN Gateway, Virtual WAN)
• Experience with network monitoring tools and SPAN/packet capture analysis
• Experience with ticketing systems and incident management processes
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently in a 24x7 operational environment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to documentation standards
• Customer service orientation with ability to manage multiple priorities
• Familiarity with network automation concepts and scripting (PowerShell, Python) preferred

Other Job Skills

• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Operating Systems and products that include Microsoft Windows, Windows Servers, Microsoft Office365 and SharePoint, Microsoft Teams.
• Applies standard methodology, techniques, procedures and criteria.
• Ability to analyze, troubleshoot and resolve intermediate level system hardware, software or networking related problems.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing and to translate technical terminology into terms understandable to non-technical employees.
• Exceptional customer service skills.
• Experience preferred with cloud infrastructure, digital workspace, and storage technology