Network Architect

About the Department

Position Duties

• Provides architectural oversight for networking components within capital projects, public works programs, and transportation system upgrades. Coordinates with civil engineering firms, construction teams, program managers, and external agencies to ensure technology requirements are incorporated into infrastructure designs, drawings, and specifications. Assesses and integrates network requirements for systems such as intelligent transportation systems (ITS), SCADA/ICS, communications-based systems, fare and revenue systems, wireless coverage, and field device networks. Reviews design submittals, fiber plans, site connectivity designs, and critical facility infrastructure to ensure technical compliance and future scalability. Design, develop, and deploy scalable, secure, and reliable network architectures that align with enterprise strategy, goals, and established architectural principles. Evaluate existing network environments and recommend improvements to enhance design, efficiency, performance, and security. Integrate diverse IT systems, applications, and infrastructure components into cohesive, optimized network solutions. Collaborate closely with project teams, software developers, and infrastructure engineers to understand business requirements and ensure architectural compatibility and performance. Implement and maintain robust network security measures, including firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection systems, and other protective technologies. Conduct regular security audits, identify vulnerabilities, and drive timely remediation efforts. Monitor network performance, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and optimize configurations to improve speed, reliability, and overall efficiency. Document network architectures, standards, configurations, and procedures; prepare clear reports and provide insights to management regarding performance, risks, and improvement opportunities. Provide direction, guidance, and definition for network architecture policies, standards, guidelines, and procedures to support enterprise-wide technology strategies. Offer technical leadership and serve as a key contributor in developing technology plans, reducing technical debt, and driving architectural initiatives that support organizational objectives. Serve as a subject matter expert for highly complex projects requiring deep expertise in network architecture and solutions integration; act as the final technical escalation point for network-related domains. Communicate effectively with stakeholders to gather requirements, translate them into technical solutions, and provide ongoing technical support and guidance to internal teams.
• Provides architectural oversight for networking components within capital projects, public works programs, and transportation system upgrades.
• Coordinates with civil engineering firms, construction teams, program managers, and external agencies to ensure technology requirements are incorporated into infrastructure designs, drawings, and specifications.
• Assesses and integrates network requirements for systems such as intelligent transportation systems (ITS), SCADA/ICS, communications-based systems, fare and revenue systems, wireless coverage, and field device networks.
• Reviews design submittals, fiber plans, site connectivity designs, and critical facility infrastructure to ensure technical compliance and future scalability.
• Design, develop, and deploy scalable, secure, and reliable network architectures that align with enterprise strategy, goals, and established architectural principles.
• Evaluate existing network environments and recommend improvements to enhance design, efficiency, performance, and security.
• Integrate diverse IT systems, applications, and infrastructure components into cohesive, optimized network solutions.
• Collaborate closely with project teams, software developers, and infrastructure engineers to understand business requirements and ensure architectural compatibility and performance.
• Implement and maintain robust network security measures, including firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection systems, and other protective technologies.
• Conduct regular security audits, identify vulnerabilities, and drive timely remediation efforts.
• Monitor network performance, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and optimize configurations to improve speed, reliability, and overall efficiency.
• Document network architectures, standards, configurations, and procedures; prepare clear reports and provide insights to management regarding performance, risks, and improvement opportunities.
• Provide direction, guidance, and definition for network architecture policies, standards, guidelines, and procedures to support enterprise-wide technology strategies.
• Offer technical leadership and serve as a key contributor in developing technology plans, reducing technical debt, and driving architectural initiatives that support organizational objectives.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for highly complex projects requiring deep expertise in network architecture and solutions integration; act as the final technical escalation point for network-related domains.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders to gather requirements, translate them into technical solutions, and provide ongoing technical support and guidance to internal teams.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of demonstrated experience as a Network Engineer, Network Architect, or in a similar role with a strong emphasis on network design and systems integration. In-depth knowledge of network protocols, routing, switching, and network security principles. Hands-on experience with network diagnostic, monitoring, and analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, SolarWinds). Strong understanding of cloud computing and virtualization technologies. Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work well under pressure. Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with team members and stakeholders. Desirable Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Relevant certifications (e.g., CCNP, CCDP, CISSP) are a plus. Experience with SD-WAN, SDN, and network automation tools. Familiarity with DevOps practices and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes). Experience in designing and implementing network solutions in large-scale enterprise environments. Project management skills and experience leading IT projects from conception to completion.
• Minimum of 10 years of demonstrated experience as a Network Engineer, Network Architect, or in a similar role with a strong emphasis on network design and systems integration.
• In-depth knowledge of network protocols, routing, switching, and network security principles.
• Hands-on experience with network diagnostic, monitoring, and analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, SolarWinds).
• Strong understanding of cloud computing and virtualization technologies.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work well under pressure.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with team members and stakeholders.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CCNP, CCDP, CISSP) are a plus.
• Experience with SD-WAN, SDN, and network automation tools.
• Familiarity with DevOps practices and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience in designing and implementing network solutions in large-scale enterprise environments.
• Project management skills and experience leading IT projects from conception to completion.

Other Qualifications

• Hybrid Work: KCIT works in a hybrid model, with days in the office as well as telecommuting. The ratio of remote to onsite work will be dependent on business needs and is subject to change. The primary onsite location is the Graybar Building, 410 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104. Employees must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements. King County has a robust collection of tools and resources to support working remotely. The individual selected for this opportunity will join an innovative and progressive team that is redefining how we work as we transition to the department's hybrid environment. Employees will be provided with a County-issued laptop and must maintain a home workspace with an internet connection where they can reliably perform work and remain available and responsive during scheduled work hours. Work Schedule: The normal workweek for this position is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Alternative schedules may be considered by your manager. FLSA Status: This position is FLSA Exempt and is not eligible for overtime pay Classification: Solutions Architect (Job code: 743801) Union: This position is represented by Protec17: Information Technology Who May Apply: This recruitment is open only to internal King County employees. Applications from external candidates will not be considered. We value diversity, diverse perspectives and life experience and encourage people of all background to apply. This recruitment may be used to fill additional vacancies that may occur. Application Process Applicants must complete the online application to include: Employment history going back at least seven years if possible (or more to include all relevant experience). A resume including all relevant experience. A cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience in network architecture. Please include examples of relevant projects and achievements. If you are interested in pursuing this position and supporting King County’s vision for unified, equitable, and high-performing government, please follow the application instructions carefully. Provide us with your work history as applicable, ensuring that you provide details that highlight your ability to fulfill the requirements for this position. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, or you would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process, please contact Shannon Hoeper at shoeper@kingcounty.gov King County's Vision, Mission, and ACTIVATE Values unite us. King County serves residents with a relentless sense of urgency, delivering on commitments with transparency and accountability. We are action-oriented, creative problem solvers who collaborate across roles, engage directly with communities, and challenge the status quo to achieve meaningful impact. As a unified team, we uphold high ethical and stewardship standards, embrace change, stay curious, and continuously improve. Across all interactions, we listen first, act quickly, and stay aligned as a team to earn and sustain public trust. Learn more about our Vision, Mission, and ACTIVATE Values here and visit our Why work at King County page here . King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on sex, race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religious affiliation, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age except by minimum age and retirement provisions, pregnancy, status as a family caregiver, parental status, marital status, military status or status as a veteran who was honorably discharged or who was discharged solely as a result of the person's sexual orientation or gender identity or expression, citizenship or immigration status, genetic information, or other protected class. However, to the extent that distinction or differential treatment on the basis of citizenship or immigration status is authorized by either federal or state law, regulation, or government contract, it is not an unfair practice. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
• Hybrid Work: KCIT works in a hybrid model, with days in the office as well as telecommuting. The ratio of remote to onsite work will be dependent on business needs and is subject to change. The primary onsite location is the Graybar Building, 410 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104.
• Employees must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements.
• King County has a robust collection of tools and resources to support working remotely. The individual selected for this opportunity will join an innovative and progressive team that is redefining how we work as we transition to the department's hybrid environment. Employees will be provided with a County-issued laptop and must maintain a home workspace with an internet connection where they can reliably perform work and remain available and responsive during scheduled work hours.
• Work Schedule: The normal workweek for this position is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Alternative schedules may be considered by your manager.
• FLSA Status: This position is FLSA Exempt and is not eligible for overtime pay
• Classification: Solutions Architect (Job code: 743801)
• Union: This position is represented by Protec17: Information Technology
• Who May Apply: This recruitment is open only to internal King County employees. Applications from external candidates will not be considered. We value diversity, diverse perspectives and life experience and encourage people of all background to apply. This recruitment may be used to fill additional vacancies that may occur.
• Application Process
• Applicants must complete the online application to include:
• Employment history going back at least seven years if possible (or more to include all relevant experience).
• A resume including all relevant experience.
• A cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience in network architecture. Please include examples of relevant projects and achievements.
• If you are interested in pursuing this position and supporting King County’s vision for unified, equitable, and high-performing government, please follow the application instructions carefully. Provide us with your work history as applicable, ensuring that you provide details that highlight your ability to fulfill the requirements for this position.
• If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, or you would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process, please contact Shannon Hoeper at shoeper@kingcounty.gov
• King County's Vision, Mission, and ACTIVATE Values unite us.
• King County serves residents with a relentless sense of urgency, delivering on commitments with transparency and accountability. We are action-oriented, creative problem solvers who collaborate across roles, engage directly with communities, and challenge the status quo to achieve meaningful impact. As a unified team, we uphold high ethical and stewardship standards, embrace change, stay curious, and continuously improve. Across all interactions, we listen first, act quickly, and stay aligned as a team to earn and sustain public trust. Learn more about our Vision, Mission, and ACTIVATE Values here and visit our Why work at King County page here .
• King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
• No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on sex, race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religious affiliation, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age except by minimum age and retirement provisions, pregnancy, status as a family caregiver, parental status, marital status, military status or status as a veteran who was honorably discharged or who was discharged solely as a result of the person's sexual orientation or gender identity or expression, citizenship or immigration status, genetic information, or other protected class. However, to the extent that distinction or differential treatment on the basis of citizenship or immigration status is authorized by either federal or state law, regulation, or government contract, it is not an unfair practice.
• Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.

Benefits

• King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs: Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what’s best for themselves and their eligible dependents Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan Transportation program and ORCA transit pass 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs For additional information about employee benefits, visit our Benefits, Payroll, and Retirement Page . This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails. NOTE: Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position. Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass. For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what’s best for themselves and their eligible dependents Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan Transportation program and ORCA transit pass 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan Transportation program and ORCA transit pass 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan Transportation program and ORCA transit pass 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Transportation program and ORCA transit pass 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
• Training and career development programs

Supplemental Questions