Network Architecture Lead - IT Architecture Senior/Specialist - Permanent - 2026-08704

Description

Title- Network Architecture Lead

Classification- IT Architecture Senior/Specialist

Job Status- Full-Time – Permanent

WDFW Program- Directors Office - Information Technology ServicesDuty Station- Olympia, Washington – Thurston County

Posting Timeframe- This recruitment has been extended and will be posted until October 29, 2026. If you applied previously your application is still under consideration and you do not need to re-apply. Application review is ongoing, submit your application materials as soon as possible, this recruitment may be closed at any time.

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!

Photo Caption: Mountain Goat – Photo Credit: Anour Esa

Lead the agency’s network infrastructure in this senior level role, where you’ll develop technology strategies that keep offices, field teams, and critical operations securely and reliably connected.

You’ll guide major network architecture and modernization initiatives, develop long-term technology roadmaps, and provide technical leadership to build a resilient, high-performing network.

What To Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Network Architecture & Strategy Lead,

Network Architecture And Technology Strategy

Develop and maintain the agency’s enterprise network architecture and multi-year technology roadmap. Define current-state and target-state network architectures. Develop architectural standards, patterns, and reference designs for network infrastructure. Ensure network architecture aligns with Washington State Enterprise strategy and DFW CIO IT strategy, cybersecurity requirements, cloud strategy, and agency business needs.

Network Modernization And Transformation

Lead or provide architectural direction for major network modernization initiatives. Develop modernization strategies for aging network equipment, connectivity, WAN, wireless, data centers, and remote locations. Evaluate traditional WAN against SD-WAN, cloud networking, internet-based connectivity, and other modern approaches. Develop strategies for integrating on-premises, cloud, field, and remote-office environments.

Network Resilience, Continuity And Disaster Recovery

Develop network resilience strategies for critical agency services.Create recovery operating procedures and train Network Engineers for Disaster Recovery efforts.

Cybersecurity Architecture

Incorporate cybersecurity principles into network architecture and design. Partner with cybersecurity staff to implement segmentation, zero-trust principles, secure remote access, identity-aware networking, and other security controls.

Cloud And Hybrid Network Architecture

Develop architecture for connectivity between agency facilities, data centers, cloud environments, 3rd party SAAS services, field work locations, and staff home offices. Design secure and resilient AWS/Azure/State Datacenter connectivity.

Field And Remote Connectivity

Develop connectivity strategies for geographically dispersed offices, hatcheries, wildlife areas, enforcement facilities, field stations, and other remote locations.

Network Engineering Standards And Governance

Establish and maintain network engineering standards and configuration standards that are consistent with Federal, State, and agency policies, standards, and strategies. Provide technical leadership for network-related projects.

Technical Leadership For Network Engineers

Serve as the senior technical authority and mentor for network engineering staff.

Network Performance And Capacity Management

Establish network performance and capacity-management practices. Identify emerging capacity constraints.

Vendor And Technology Evaluation

Evaluate network products, services, and technologies. Conduct technical evaluations and proof-of-concept activities.

Project And Business Engagement

Serve as the network architecture lead for major IT and business projects.

Documentation And Configuration Management

Maintain authoritative network architecture documentation. Establish standards for documenting network dependencies and configurations.

Working Conditions

Work setting, including hazards: Office setting typically at the Natural Resources Building (NRB) in Olympia, Washington. May be required to work in tight spaces, data closets and datacenter. Office hazards include working under fluorescent light, repetitively entering data into computer and extended periods of looking at computer monitor, sitting or standing.

Schedule: This position is full-time, working 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work and variable hours as needed. Alternative schedules may be considered based on business needs.

Travel Requirements: Some travel will be required to regional and other remote offices.

Customer Interactions: Interact with WDFW staff, WaTech, ISPproviders and vendors.

Qualifications

Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field.

And all the following (may be gained concurrently)

Eight (8) years of recent, progressively responsible professional experience designing, implementing, engineering, or operating complex enterprise networks.Three (3) years of recent experience performing network architecture responsibilities, including target-state architecture, standards, major network designs, or technology roadmaps.

Special Requirements/Conditions Of Employment

Must pass a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) background check.

Preferred Qualifications

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:

Leadership Training.Five (5) years of professional experience with enterprise routing, switching, LAN/WAN, wireless, VPN, network services, and network infrastructure.Three (3) years planning or leading network modernization, infrastructure lifecycle, migration, or technology refresh initiatives.Two (2) years designing or supporting network connectivity between on-premises infrastructure, cloud environments, and external services.Three (3) years incorporating network security, segmentation, high availability, redundancy, disaster recovery, or resilience into network designs.Two (2) years developing investment recommendations, risk assessments, or business cases related to infrastructure or network technology.Three (3) years providing technical leadership, mentoring engineers, conducting design reviews, establishing standards, or directing complex technical work.Three (3) years communicating complex technical concepts, risks, alternatives, and recommendations to technical staff, managers, executives, and nontechnical stakeholders.Two (2) years designing or supporting network architectures across geographically dispersed, remote, or operationally diverse locations.Two (2) years AWS Networking experience and certification.

Your Application Must Include The Following

A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.An up-to-date resume. A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.At least three professional references with current contact information.

Supplemental Information

In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the “Benefits” tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.

Important Note

All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

Union - WFSE

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). This recruitment may be used to fill positions in addition to those listed.

Veteran And Military Spouse Preference Notice

Per RCW 73.16.010 Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following:

Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at [email protected]. Veterans only – Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter.Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2024-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran)Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Request an accommodation: Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email [email protected], or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.

Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or [email protected].

Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to [email protected] and reference job #2026-08704.

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More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read About Our Benefits

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement And Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.

YesNo

02

Please select the option below that best describes the highest level of education you have completed.

High School Diploma/GED.Some College.Vocational Degree or Certificate.Associate's Degree.Bachelor's Degree.Master's Degree.Ph.D.None of the above.

03

What is your major area of study? If you possess multiple degrees, please list each degree and major. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.) This includes both vocational and college education.

04

Passing a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) background check and fingerprinting is required for this position. Are you able to meet this requirement?

YesNo

05

Do you have at least eight (8) years of recent, progressively responsible professional experience designing, implementing, engineering, or operating complex enterprise networks.

YesNo

06

Please briefly describe your progressively responsible professional experience designing, implementing, engineering, or operating complex enterprise networks. (“See Resume” is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).

07

Do you have at least three (3) years recent experience performing network architecture responsibilities, including target-state architecture, standards, major network designs, or technology roadmaps.

YesNo

08

Please briefly describe your recent experience performing network architecture responsibilities, including target-state architecture, standards, major network designs, or technology roadmaps. (“See Resume” is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).

09

Please briefly describe your experience providing technical leadership. Examples may include mentoring engineers, conducting design reviews, establishing standards, or directing complex technical work. (“See Resume” is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).

10

Do you have at least five (5) years of professional experience with all the following - enterprise routing, switching, LAN/WAN, wireless, VPN, network services, and network infrastructure?

YesNo

11

Please briefly describe your experience designing or supporting network architectures across geographically dispersed, remote, or operationally diverse locations? (“See Resume” is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).

12

How did you hear about this job posting? (Select all that apply).

American Fisheries Society (AFS)Careers.wa.govCommunity Based OrganizationCommunity/Technical CollegeConservation Job BoardEl InformadorFacebookFour W's Fishing Team, LLC – Willard Franklin III, LinkedInHandshakeHiring Event/WorkshopIndeed.comJob BoardJob FairLinkedInMHCC - Mount Hood Community CollegeNewspaperOtherOther State AgencyOther WebsiteProfessional AssociationSociety of American Foresters (SAF)Texas A&MTwitterUniversity Job BoardUW College of the EnvironmentWDFW EmployeeWDFW RecruiterWDFW WebsiteWord of MouthWorkSource

13

Tell us more – kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.

Required Question