Principal Network Engineer
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for skilled network engineers has skyrocketed, with a 25% increase in job postings over the past year. As companies like Akamai continue to expand their digital presence, the need for experts in network design and automation has never been more pressing. With over 12 years of experience and a strong background in IP network design, you could be the perfect fit for this Principal Network Engineer role. Before applying, consider the evolving landscape of remote work and how your skills can translate to a global network infrastructure. Akamai's commitment to innovation and employee development makes this a unique opportunity for career growth.
Job Description
About the Role
The Principal Network Engineer role at Akamai is a senior technical position that requires a deep understanding of network infrastructure design, implementation, and automation. As a key member of the Global Network Engineering team, you will lead efforts in designing, building, and maintaining Akamai's global network infrastructure. Your expertise will be crucial in addressing complex issues in routing, data center fabrics, and automation, ensuring the scalability, reliability, and security of the network.The network engineering team is a highly skilled group of individuals who work on various technologies to build, configure, and maintain network infrastructure in support of Akamai's global platform. As a Principal Network Engineer, you will partner with cross-functional teams to drive the evolution of network infrastructure, from initial architecture through to implementation. Your technical expertise and leadership skills will be essential in guiding the team and ensuring the success of network infrastructure projects.
Akamai's global network infrastructure is a critical component of the company's products and services, and as a Principal Network Engineer, you will play a key role in ensuring its continued growth and development. With the increasing demand for digital services, the need for skilled network engineers has never been more pressing. If you have a passion for network design, automation, and leadership, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
What You Will Do
- Design, build, and maintain Akamai's global network infrastructure, including data center fabrics and overlay technologies
- Develop and maintain Akamai's core network configuration templates using Jinja2
- Implement new hardware platforms and network features within the automation framework
- Serve as a subject matter expert for complex network issues, performing deep-dive troubleshooting and analysis
- Create and maintain clear documentation and procedures for network infrastructure
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive the evolution of network infrastructure
- Develop and manage network configuration templates utilizing automation tools like Python, Ansible, and Jinja2
- Understand end-to-end data flows and traffic patterns to optimize network performance
- Manage and troubleshoot multi-vendor environments, including Juniper, Cisco, Arista, and routing platforms like BIRD, FRR, and Cumulus
- Build and maintain relationships with internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with business objectives
What We Are Looking For
- 12 years of relevant experience in network engineering, with a focus on IP network design and implementation
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related technical field
- Extensive experience in managing and troubleshooting multi-vendor environments
- Strong understanding of data center architecture, including CLOS Fabric and overlay technologies like VxLAN and EVPN
- Experience with automation tools like Python, Ansible, and Jinja2
- Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to guide technical teams and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders
- Experience with network configuration templates and automation frameworks
- Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to perform deep-dive troubleshooting and analysis
- Understanding of end-to-end data flows and traffic patterns to optimize network performance
Nice to Have
- Experience with cloud-based network infrastructure and services
- Knowledge of emerging technologies like SDN and NFV
- Experience with containerization and orchestration tools like Docker and Kubernetes
- Strong understanding of network security principles and practices
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and bonus structure
- Equity awards and Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
- Comprehensive health insurance and benefits package
- Generous PTO and vacation policy
- Flexible remote work arrangements and stipend
- Opportunities for career growth and professional development
- Access to cutting-edge technologies and tools
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
How to Stand Out
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with network design and automation, and how you have applied these skills in previous roles.
- Make sure to highlight your understanding of data center architecture and overlay technologies like VxLAN and EVPN.
- Familiarize yourself with Akamai's products and services, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's goals and objectives.
- Consider creating a portfolio of your work, including examples of network infrastructure design and automation projects you have led or been a part of.
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with automation tools like Python, Ansible, and Jinja2, and how you have used these tools to optimize network performance.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions during the interview process, and be prepared to discuss your long-term career goals and how they align with Akamai's vision and mission.
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