Network Engineer III in Portland, Oregon - #71958 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 71958

Network Engineer III
Our client is seeking a senior-level Network Engineer to serve as a technical leader and subject matter expert within a complex, high-availability environment. This individual will play a critical role in shaping network architecture, mentoring team members, and ensuring reliable, secure connectivity across a 24/7 operation. The ideal candidate brings both deep technical expertise and a collaborative, team-first mindset, with the ability to influence, guide, and elevate those around them.

This role is a hybrid model in Portland, Oregon.

Network Engineer III Responsibilities

• Lead the design and evolution of enterprise network architecture, including large-scale, high-availability environments and modern overlay technologies (e.g., VXLAN).
• Serve as a technical leader and escalation point for complex network issues, driving root cause analysis and long-term solutions.
• Act as a subject matter expert for network infrastructure, partnering cross-functionally with server, cloud, and security teams.
• Design, implement, and optimize routing, switching, and firewall solutions across primarily Cisco environments, with growing exposure to Palo Alto.
• Support and enhance network security posture through firewall management, segmentation strategies, and best practices.
• Collaborate closely with a diverse technical team (including wireless, cabling, and program management) to deliver reliable network services.
• Mentor and guide junior team members, fostering a positive, knowledge-sharing team culture.
• Contribute to infrastructure planning and modernization efforts, including cloud connectivity (AWS, O365) and evolving network standards.
• Support a 24/7 operational environment, ensuring uptime, resilience, and performance across critical systems.
• Participate in occasional after-hours work tied to upgrades, maintenance, or incident response.

Network Engineer III Qualifications

• 10+ years of network engineering experience, including at least 5 years in a senior or lead-level capacity.
• Experience designing and supporting large-scale or service provider-style networks with high uptime requirements.
• Strong expertise in routing, switching, and firewall technologies (Cisco preferred; Palo Alto or Fortinet experience is a plus).
• Hands-on experience with modern network design concepts such as VXLAN or similar overlay technologies.
• Background supporting 24/7 environments (e.g., healthcare, utilities, transportation, or other mission-critical operations).
• Ability to operate as a technical leader, mentor, or SME within a collaborative team environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a diplomatic, team-oriented approach to sharing ideas and driving improvements.
• Experience working cross-functionally with infrastructure, cloud, and security teams (AWS and O365 exposure preferred).
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in dynamic, real-world environments.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent professional experience.

Compensation: $60-$70/hr. (DOE)

VanderHouwen Contractors Enjoy Exceptional Benefit Perks!
As an eligible contract employee with VanderHouwen, you'll have access to a full suite of benefits designed with your well-being in mind. Our comprehensive package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, and a matching 401(k) to help secure your future.

Meet VanderHouwen
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VanderHouwen is an award-winning, Women & Diversity-Owned, WBENC certified professional staffing firm. Founded in 1987, VanderHouwen places experienced professionals across the nation! Our recruitment teams specialize in either Technology and IT, Engineering, Human Resources, or Accounting and Finance career markets. Partner with us to land your next exciting career!

VanderHouwen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. VanderHouwen does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal civil rights laws.

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