Network Lead

Job Description Network Lead

Position Title: Network Lead Location: Goa Experience: 10–15 years Department: IT Infrastructure / Network & Security Reporting to: Network & Security Manager / IT Infrastructure Lead

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced and self-driven Senior Network Engineer to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of enterprise-level network infrastructure. The ideal candidate should possess deep hands-on expertise in Cisco Routing & Switching, Firewalls, Cisco SD-WAN, Cisco DNA Center (DNAC), and Wireless LAN Controllers (WLCs). This role demands a proactive approach to network performance, security, and scalability across large and complex environments.

Key Responsibilities

Design and deploy robust network architecture using Cisco routing, switching, and wireless technologies.

Lead the configuration, troubleshooting, and optimization of Cisco routers and switches (OSPF, BGP, EIGRP, HSRP, QoS).

Plan, implement, and manage Cisco SD-WAN solutions (vManage, vSmart, vBond) for secure and scalable WAN connectivity.

Operate and maintain Cisco DNA Center (DNAC) for network automation, assurance, telemetry, and Software-Defined Access (SD-Access).

Manage and troubleshoot Wireless LAN Controllers (WLCs) and associated Access Points (APs), ensuring optimal wireless performance.

Administer and secure perimeter and internal network using Cisco ASA / Firepower NGFW (ACLs, NAT, VPN, IPS/IDS).

Lead incident response, root cause analysis (RCA), and implement permanent corrective actions.

Collaborate with security, cloud, and server teams for integrated IT infrastructure deployments.

Create and maintain high-quality network documentation including topologies, IP schemas, and SOPs.

Stay updated with the latest in Cisco technologies and recommend best practices for continuous improvement.

Required Technical Skills

Cisco Routing & Switching: Deep understanding and hands-on experience with Layer 2/3 protocols (VLANs, STP, HSRP, VRRP, OSPF, BGP, etc.)

Cisco SD-WAN: Deployment, management, policy configuration, and monitoring via vManage.

Cisco DNAC: Experience with automation templates, device provisioning, assurance, and analytics.

Wireless Technologies: Strong experience with Cisco WLCs (e.g., 9800 series), RF tuning, SSID provisioning, and wireless security.

Firewalls: Proficiency in Cisco Firepower / ASA with experience in NAT, site-to-site VPNs, remote access VPNs, and firewall rule management.

Monitoring & Tools: Experience with SNMP, NetFlow, Syslog analysis, tools like SolarWinds, PRTG, or Cisco Prime Infrastructure.

Familiarity with network segmentation, zero-trust principles, and network access control (NAC) solutions.

Soft Skills & Expectations

Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills in complex environments.

Ability to lead projects independently and mentor junior team members.

Effective communicator – able to convey technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Proficient in documentation, change management, and risk assessment.

Comfortable working in 24x7 mission-critical environments (with possible on-call support).

Education & Certifications