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Classified Network Engineer

RAND Corporation
Washington, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 17 Oct 2025
💰 $184,500/yr($120,900/yr$184,500/yr)

About the role

Job Type:

Regular

The Classified Network Engineer works as an integral part of the Security & Classified Operations team to engineer networks and infrastructure services in the RAND classified environments. Provide strategic technical expertise and leadership in anticipating and recommending emerging technologies for classified network technologies, including the use of Classified Cloud based technology.  Possess both expert-level knowledge and a breadth of experience and skill sets to develop comprehensive solutions and process improvements. Work independently, collaborate and engage with other experts in developing solutions and resolving problems.  Assess technical concepts; determine applicability to the classified environment, test and implement technologies, and pass on to technical users. 

Duties and Responsibilities

May perform any or all the following duties:

  • Provide expertise (SME) in day-to-day work for data, voice, LAN/WAN, Cloud and AV environments for Classified network environments.

  • Collaborate regularly with S&CO Systems Administration team and the Information Systems Security Managers on compliance and technical matters.

  • Work routine vulnerability patching and STIG application for all classified network equipment.  Participate in the change management process.

  • Investigate, troubleshoot and resolve network-related issues, working closely with S&CO and IS technical personnel.

  • Lead small-to-medium projects and technology implementations, network engineering and design tactical solutions for classified enterprises. 

  • Aid with technical staff, including the diagnosing and troubleshooting of systems networking, generating network diagrams and other IT domains.  Provide Tier 1-3 support to all classified networking operations.

  • Prepare for and participate in government inspections of classified technical environment for all RAND sites.

  • Partner with IS Networking resources on compliance, maintenance, and project workloads.

  • Based on user or company needs, evaluate and recommend enhanced network hardware and software systems/technologies and network designs for maximum functionality, security, and efficiency.

  • Provide classified LAN/WAN/WLAN Cloud efficiency analysis. Perform as an exclusive network SME resource and provide training and expertise and mentoring to various S&CO individuals in relation to network voice or data applications and systems.

  • Remain current with emerging technologies, maintaining professional relationships with relevant colleagues and attending occasional technology conferences.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Education

  • High School Diploma or GED required.

  • BS Preferred.

Certifications

  • Current Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is preferred; Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP) or Cisco Certified Architect (CCA) desirable.

  • Security+

  • COMSEC Training

Required Experience, Knowledge and Skills

  • 15+ years of experience working in a role supporting classified planning, design, implementation, administration, and troubleshooting of LAN/WAN/WLAN and cloud solutions for both DoD and IC environments. 

  • Team player with experience leading classified technical projects and solving problems. 

  • Familiarity with any technology that aligns with future operations strategy is a plus; Microsoft M365, Azure cloud, DoD Classified Environments, SD-WAN, IaaS/PaaS, datacenter to cloud transition, Cisco DNA, Cisco routers, Cisco ISE as along with BGP and OSPF protocols.

  • Thorough understanding of the Cybersecurity lifecycle model involving continuance monitoring.

  • Significant knowledge of the concepts involving DoD and IC classified cyber infrastructures.

  • Experience implementing requirements identified in the national policies as they relate to classified processing.

  • Experience with the Cyber Operational Readiness Requirements Assessment requirements along with DAPM, ICD-503 and CNSSI 1253 the JSIG manual and patch management regulations.

Security Clearance

  • Must meet eligibility requirements for access to U.S.  government classified information.

  • Active CI polygraph.

Location

  • Washington, D.C.

  • This position is 100% onsite.

Salary: $120,900-$184,500

RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to, the specific role and

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Company

RAND Corporation

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