This is a contract role through Magnit for Consumers Energy. This role is a hybrid position in Jackson, MI. 

Work Schedule: Hybrid role - Mon/Tues/Thur - on-site at Parnall location. On-call rotation

The Principal Network Engineer is a strategic technical leader responsible for architecting and optimizing enterprise network infrastructure. This role oversees large-scale network design, contributes to IT and security architecture.  The Principal Network Engineer ensures network resilience, performance, and security while aligning infrastructure initiatives with business objectives. The Principal Network Engineer is part of the overall 7x24 operational support model for IT/OT systems.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Design, implement, operate and maintain functional networks (LAN, WLAN, WAN), ensuring scalability and resilience to meet organizational needs spanning on-premises and cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).

• Monitor, troubleshoot, and resolve critical network issues, providing Tier-3 escalation support and leading root cause analysis ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Develop and document network architectures, operational procedures, and troubleshooting guides.
• Develop and enforce network automation strategies using Terraform, Ansible, Python, or PowerShell to improve efficiency, security, and scalability.
• Maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including network configurations, operational procedures, and project plans.
• Stay informed about emerging networking technologies, trends, and security threats, providing strategic recommendations to optimize and future-proof network infrastructure.
• Other duties as assigned or may be necessary.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Expert-level knowledge of networking architectures and protocols, including BGP, OSPF, MPLS, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VXLAN, and EVPN. Expert Knowledge

• Deep expertise in cloud networking, including AWS VPC, Azure Virtual WAN, GCP VPC, Transit Gateway, Direct Connect, ExpressRoute, and Cloud Load Balancers. Professional Standard
• Experience with SD-WAN, network virtualization, and software-defined networking (SDN) (Cisco ACI, VMware NSX, AWS Transit Gateway). Broad Knowledge
• Proficiency in network automation and scripting, leveraging Terraform, Ansible, Python, PowerShell to streamline operations. Broad Knowledge
• Strong troubleshooting skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex, multi-layered network issues across on-prem and cloud environments. Professional Standard
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of explaining complex networking concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences. Professional Standard
• Demonstrates excellent teamwork and embodies the virtues of being humble, hungry, and people smart. Professional Standard
• Proven ability to fostering a culture of continuous improvement. 
• Demonstrates strong teamwork and problem-solving abilities, balancing business needs with security and operational excellence Broad Knowledge

Experience

• 4 - 7 years Hands-on experience in cloud networking (AWS, Azure, or GCP) (Required)
• 4 - 7 years Experience with SD-WAN, network segmentation, and automation tools to enhance network efficiency. (Required)
• 4 - 7 years Experience in leading technical projects (Required)
• 4 - 7 years Experience designing and supporting large-scale enterprise networks, including hybrid cloud environments (Required)
• 7 - 10 years Hands-on experience in network engineering, including design, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise-scale networks. (Required)
• Ability to troubleshoot technical Tier 2 and 3 escalation issues and identify solutions in a fast-paced environment.
• Would also include up to 10% travel.

Bachelor's degree (required)

Hourly Pay Rate Range (dependent on location, experience, expectation)

The pay range that Magnit reasonably expects to pay for this position is: $31 - $39/hr

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K (provided minimum eligibility hours are met)

All qualified applicants will not be discriminated against and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.