Presales Network Solution Architect

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in District of Columbia, +2 more states.

📋 Description

• Convert client requirements into practical, scalable network and network security solutions.

• Collaborate with sales teams to grasp customer objectives, challenges, and purchasing motivations.

• Facilitate client discovery sessions encompassing campus, data center, WAN, wireless, and security domains.

• Create secure, scalable network architectures and cross-practice solution designs.

• Evaluate client network environments and pinpoint opportunities for modernization.

• Present architectures that align with business outcomes, risk management, and investment value.

• Act as the senior subject matter expert in enterprise networking and network security.

• Oversee architecture across routing and switching, SD-WAN, SASE/SSE, wireless, fabric, segmentation, NAC, and firewall platforms.

• Provide counsel on cloud connectivity, data center infrastructure, cybersecurity, unified communications, and endpoints.

• Address intricate network design trade-offs and serve as an escalation point for issues.

• Formulate cost models, level of effort estimates, resource plans, timelines, solution narratives, proposals, and statements of work.

• Assist in RFP responses, technical presentations, demonstrations, and alignment in delivery.

• Lead internal coordination and transitions across sales, delivery, engineering, specialty, vendor, and distribution teams.

• Contribute reusable presales materials, reference designs, and solution blueprints.

• Mentor Solution Architects to enhance discovery processes, design quality, and client engagement.

• Share industry knowledge and engage in reviews, debriefings, and retrospectives.

⛳️ Requirements

• Comprehensive understanding of enterprise networking and network security technologies, including BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, switching, VLANs/VXLAN, QoS, multicast, and network automation.

• Proven design experience with Cisco, Juniper, HPE Aruba, and Fortinet platforms.

• Experience in designing SD-WAN, SASE/SSE, Zero Trust network access, and segmentation architectures.

• Strong background in enterprise IT architecture encompassing cloud, storage, virtualization, cybersecurity, unified communications, and data management.

• Proficient in crafting multi-practice solutions that span multiple technology domains.

• Familiarity with cost modeling, licensing and subscription structures, and resource planning for delivery.

• Understanding of IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, multi-cloud, and hybrid cloud connectivity.

• Knowledge of Terraform, Ansible, and network observability platforms.

• Understanding of GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOC 2 compliance standards.

• Experience with solution architectures in financial services, healthcare, retail, education, and the public sector.

• Exceptional client-facing presentation and communication skills.

• Capability to align technical solutions with business challenges and value propositions.

• Demonstrated experience in presales engagement and proposal development.

• Strong problem-solving abilities and innovative solution design skills.

• Capacity to manage multiple pursuits and prioritize effectively.

• Experience with pipeline management and CRM tools.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across functions.

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

• 8–12+ years of experience in IT solution design, network architecture, or technical presales roles.

• Experience managing complex, multi-workstream initiatives.

• Previous experience with Managed Service Providers (MSPs), Value-Added Resellers (VARs), or systems integrators is highly desirable.

• Proven success in influencing senior client stakeholders and mentoring architects.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement savings plan with company matching.

• Generous paid time off and flexible work schedules.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.