Job Description Job Description Connection Services is seeking a Lead Network Engineer / Architect to join our Technical Staffing Division for a contract opportunity onsite in Niles, IL. This is a contract opportunity with benefits. We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Network Engineer / Architect to design, implement, and manage a global enterprise network infrastructure centered around Cisco technologies. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a balance of technical depth, strategic vision, and leadership, ensuring a secure, scalable, and high-performing network environment that supports global business operations. Key Responsibilities: Lead the architecture, design, and deployment of Cisco enterprise network solutions, including routers, switches, and firewalls (IOS, NX-OS, ASA/FTD). Architect and administer Cisco Meraki environments across MX, MS, and MR platforms, with a focus on SD-WAN design, policy enforcement, and cloud-based management. Design and integrate Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) for advanced authentication, authorization, and accounting across wired and wireless infrastructures. Manage and optimize Cisco Umbrella and other cloud-delivered security platforms to enhance enterprise protection and compliance. Oversee Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) systems, ensuring performance, resiliency, and seamless VoIP operations. Perform complex troubleshooting, packet analysis, and root cause diagnostics to maintain optimal uptime and reliability. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to execute infrastructure modernization, migration, and network upgrade projects. Maintain comprehensive network documentation, topology diagrams, and configuration standards. Provide technical mentorship to junior engineers and contribute to architectural roadmaps and best practices. Enforce network and security compliance standards across all environments. Required Skills & Qualifications: 8+ years of progressive experience in enterprise network engineering and architecture. Expert-level knowledge of Cisco IOS, NX-OS, ASA/FTD, and Meraki platforms. Proven hands-on experience with Cisco ISE (policy creation, profiling, AD/LDAP integration). Strong understanding of Cisco Umbrella and cloud security models. In-depth experience with CUCM, VoIP, and unified communications. Proficiency in routing and switching protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, STP, Layer 2/3). Familiarity with network performance monitoring tools (SolarWinds, NetFlow, etc.). Relevant Cisco certifications such as CCNP or CCIE strongly preferred. Excellent analytical, communication, and documentation abilities. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with network automation and scripting (Python, Ansible). Exposure to cloud networking (AWS, Azure). Familiarity with SD-Access, Software-Defined Networking (SDN), and modern enterprise architectures. Understanding of ITIL frameworks and change management processes.

Required qualifications:

• 8+ years of progressive experience in enterprise network engineering and architecture
• Expert-level knowledge of Cisco IOS, NX-OS, ASA/FTD, and Meraki platforms
• Proven hands-on experience with Cisco ISE (policy creation, profiling, AD/LDAP integration)
• Strong understanding of Cisco Umbrella and cloud security models
• In-depth experience with CUCM, VoIP, and unified communications
• Proficiency in routing and switching protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, STP, Layer 2/3)
• Familiarity with network performance monitoring tools (SolarWinds, NetFlow, etc.)
• Relevant Cisco certifications such as CCNP or CCIE strongly preferred
• Excellent analytical, communication, and documentation abilities

Desired qualifications:

• Experience with network automation and scripting (Python, Ansible)
• Exposure to cloud networking (AWS, Azure)
• Familiarity with SD-Access, Software-Defined Networking (SDN), and modern enterprise architectures
• Understanding of ITIL frameworks and change management processes