Sr. Network Architect
Description
Are you a motivatedNetwork Architect with technical, hands-on experience conceptualizing, designing, and simulating complex network architectures? Join us at the Leidos Innovations Center, Information and Data Science Division, with a group of highly skilled and innovative individuals and a variety of exciting R&D programs. As ourNetwork Architect, you will create and evaluate new network concepts based on current and emerging technologies across all domains (Wireline, RF, Free space optics). This position requires deep technical expertise in network protocols, security, and cloud technologies, as well as strong leadership and communication skills. You will work in a dynamic, high-impact environment that blends current state of the art with emerging technologies such as quantum communications.
Primary Responsibilities.
- Develop novel networking approaches and protocol concepts that blend traditional solutions with emerging technologies.
- Simulate and evaluate network architectures and protocols.
- Research and evaluate emerging network infrastructure technologies.
- Plan and design networks
- Produce technical documentation, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to knowledge transfer.
Basic Qualifications.
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related technical field.
- Minimum of 8 years of experience, with a significant portion focused on networking; master's with 6 - 10 years of prior relevant experience. May possess a Doctorate in technical domain. Additional education, experience or training will be considered in lieu of degree.
- Experience designing, implementing, and troubleshooting networks .
- Experience simulating and assessing networking protocols and architectures
- Detailed understanding of networking protocols: TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, VPNs, routing protocols (OSPF, BGP).
- In-depth knowledge of network security principles and best practices
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills and ability to work independently on complex tasks and lead technical efforts.
- Strong technical writing and communication skills.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance. (U.S. Citizenship is required)
Preferred Qualifications.
- Experience conceptualizing and implementing new networking approaches and protocols
- Experience developing software to implement novel or existing protocols
- Experience with quantum networking
- Active DoD Secret clearance is preferred
At Leidos, we don't want someone who "fits the mold"-we want someone who melts it down and builds something better. This is a role for the restless, the over-caffeinated, the ones who ask, "what's next?" before the dust settles on "what's now."
Want more jobs like this?
Get jobs in Arlington, VA delivered to your inbox every week.

If you're already scheming step 20 while everyone else is still debating step 2... good. You'll fit right in.
Original Posting:
August 20, 2025
At Leidos, we don't want someone who "fits the mold"-we want someone who melts it down and builds something better. This is a role for the restless, the over-caffeinated, the ones who ask, "what's next?" before the dust settles on "what's now."
If you're already scheming step 20 while everyone else is still debating step 2... good. You'll fit right in.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $104,650.00 - $189,175.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
- Health Insurance
- Health Reimbursement Account
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- FSA
- HSA
- Pet Insurance
- Mental Health Benefits
Parental Benefits
- Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
- Fertility Benefits
- Adoption Assistance Program
- Family Support Resources
Work Flexibility
- Flexible Work Hours
- Remote Work Opportunities
- Hybrid Work Opportunities
Office Life and Perks
- Company Outings
- On-Site Cafeteria
- Holiday Events
Vacation and Time Off
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Personal/Sick Days
- Volunteer Time Off
Financial and Retirement
- 401(K) With Company Matching
- Stock Purchase Program
- Performance Bonus
- Relocation Assistance
- Financial Counseling
- Profit Sharing
Professional Development
- Promote From Within
- Mentor Program
- Access to Online Courses
- Lunch and Learns
- Internship Program
- Leadership Training Program
Diversity and Inclusion
Company Videos
Hear directly from employees about what it is like to work at Leidos.