SUMMARY:

PDS Tech Commercial is seeking a Sr. Principal Network Engineer to support a leading aerospace company in San Diego, CA. In this role, you will help design, integrate, and optimize advanced network systems that power some of the nation’s most critical aerospace and defense programs. Your expertise will directly contribute to groundbreaking innovations that protect and connect our world—today and for generations to come.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, or related field with 8+ years of experience

(OR Master’s with 6 years, OR PhD with 4 years, OR 4 additional years of experience in lieu of degree).

• Proven expertise in network design, architecture, and equipment selection.
• Strong knowledge of IPv4/IPv6, IP sub-netting, BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP.
• Skilled in configuring and troubleshooting Cisco IOS/IOS-XE.
• Familiarity with advanced network features such as GRE, IPSEC, QoS, VLANs, and multicast.
• Understanding of SNMP, SSH, syslog, RADIUS/TACACS.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• DoD 8570 Security certification (Sec+, CASP, CISSP, etc.).
• Cisco certifications (CCNA/CCNP/CCIE or equivalent).
• Experience with network management tools such as Splunk, FMC, or Cisco ISE.
• Knowledge of Risk Management Framework, STIGs, and security controls.
• Familiarity with Windows, Linux, and VMware environments.
• Experience with military COMSEC/CRYPTO equipment, tactical/military radio networks, and SATCOM systems.
• Expertise in Cisco Unified Communications, VoIP, VTC, and network simulation tools like CML/VIRL.

• Collaborate with engineers and technicians in a hands-on lab environment.
• Integrate emerging network technologies into mission-critical systems.
• Implement engineering changes to ensure optimal system performance.
• Analyze and translate technical requirements into robust, end-to-end architectures.
• Configure complex network systems and coordinate with SMEs, peers, and government engineers.
• Occasionally travel to support program needs (up to 10%).