Principal Network Architect

Company: SkyGrid, LLC.
Location: Austin
Posted on: February 17, 2025

Job Description:

SkyGrid, a Boeing SparkCognition Company, exists to open the sky for autonomous flight. Based in Austin, Texas, SkyGrid builds high-assurance third-party services to enable the safe operations and airspace integration of autonomous aircraft. SkyGrid also acts as a key operational nexus for advanced air mobility, integrating and managing data, infrastructure, access, and traffic to support seamless and efficient air traffic services.The SkyGrid team is looking for a Principal Network Architect who will be responsible for the design and ownership of a robust hybrid, distributed, and cloud-based network architecture in collaboration with IPT leads, Software and System architect. This role involves complete responsibility for network topology and conducting necessary trade studies to inform analysis and decision-making related to the system design deliverables. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in network architecture and experience leading complex systems integration in mission-critical environments in multidisciplinary environments.Performance Objectives:

• Complete the topology and technological trades associated with the network architecture.
• Complete the network architecture design, ensuring alignment with mission-critical requirements.
• Validate the architecture against scalability, redundancy, and security requirements. Provide support and evidence supporting the certification approach.Responsibilities:
  • Network Architecture and Design:
    • Design and implement network architectures that support mission-critical ground-based aerospace systems.
    • Develop scalable, high-availability solutions to meet system requirements, including redundancy, failover, and load balancing.
    • Ensure the network design adheres to aerospace industry standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA, ICAO).
    • System Integration:
      • Integrate the internet-based and ground-based data (traffic, weather, aeronautical data) from suppliers.
      • Coordinate the network architecture effort across the teams.
      • Network Infrastructure Planning:
        • Plan and design new network infrastructure expansions or upgrades, considering future scalability, bandwidth needs, and latency requirements.
        • Collaborate with third-party vendors and internal teams to ensure that the network architecture aligns with hardware and software specifications.
        • Complete the supplier evaluation and recommend services level agreements and hardware components.
        • Security Architecture:
          • Design secure network architectures that meet stringent aerospace security requirements, ensuring data integrity, availability, and confidentiality.
          • Implement security measures like encryption, intrusion detection systems (IDS), firewalls, and VPNs as part of the architecture.
          • Ensure compliance with cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST, CIS).
          • Plan and execute the safety and security validation activities.
          • Leadership:
            • Plan the activities and report the status of the execution to the CE and the CPM.
            • Coordinate the activities across the design IPT, qualification, and simulation teams.
            • Coordinate the architecture design with System and Software architects.
            • Flow down the plan and direction to the team.Qualifications:
              • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Computer, or related STEM degree from an accredited university or college.
              • 15+ years of related experience, preferably in the aerospace or telecom industry.
              • 7+ years of experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams, SMEs, senior engineers, and architects.
              • Experience with network design and simulation tools like Cisco Packet Tracer, SolarWinds, GNS3, or equivalent tools.
              • Experience with Visio or Lucid charts creating block diagrams, schematics, etc.
              • Deep knowledge of routing and switching protocols (OSPF, BGP, MPLS).
              • Experience with virtual LANs (VLANs) and network segmentation.
              • Proficiency in firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, and other security technologies.
              • Experience with securing network architectures, including encryption protocols, SSL/TLS, and multi-factor authentication.
              • Proficiency in network monitoring and performance tools (e.g., Wireshark, SNMP, NetFlow).
              • Ability to troubleshoot complex network issues using diagnostic tools.
              • Familiarity with aviation-related networking standards and technologies (ADS-B, radar integration, real-time systems).
              • Experience working with aerospace communication protocols.
              • Experience with hybrid network designs that include both on-premises and cloud-based resources (AWS, Azure).
              • Strong communication skills, self-driven and capable of participating in senior leadership discussions.
              • Strong presentation skills with the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
              • Able to work effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.Preferred Qualifications:
                • Advanced Engineering degree (Masters) from an accredited institution.
                • Familiarity with DO-160/DO-280, DO-254, etc.Join Our Team and Enjoy Exceptional Benefits:
                  • Comprehensive Health Coverage from Day One: Enjoy immediate access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, including HSA and FSA options.
                  • Generous Retirement Contributions: Benefit from an automatic company 401k contribution program, with no match required, plus an additional company matching program to boost your retirement savings.
                  • Headspace Annual Membership: Prioritize your mental health with complimentary access to mindfulness and meditation resources.
                  • Discounted ClassPass Membership: Stay active and healthy with access to thousands of fitness studios and gyms nationwide.
                  • Investment in Your Growth: Receive an annual stipend for learning and development to support your continuous education and skill development.
                  • Engaging Team Activities: Participate in quarterly team-building events and celebrations organized by our dedicated culture committee.
                  • Fully Stocked Kitchen: Enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day.
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Keywords: SkyGrid, LLC., Austin , Principal Network Architect, Professions , Austin, Texas