Network Engineer – Optical Systems

Who We Are PEAKE is a dynamic small business committed to excellence, innovation, and integrity. We value fresh perspectives, continuous learning, and a team-driven approach. If you're ready to apply your technical skills and customer service mindset in a fast-paced networking environment, we’d love to hear from you! Position Summary PEAKE is seeking a highly skilled Network Engineer with deep expertise in Optical Networks within classified Federal Defense environments, specifically with Ciena 6500 Packet-Optical systems. This SME role is responsible for defining, designing, and overseeing complex network architecture initiatives across mission-critical systems. The ideal candidate combines technical mastery with strategic vision, providing both technical leadership and business consultation to ensure network reliability, security, and performance meet the highest defense standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop network architecture, security, reliability, and business continuity plans for optical and hybrid network environments.
• Create and execute implementation, integration, cutover, and interoperability plans supporting classified DoD missions.
• Provide strategic business consultation, including organizational alignment, business process development, and business case formulation for enterprise network initiatives.
• Lead and mentor multiple teams of network and systems engineers engaged in highly complex projects across design, integration, and R&D domains.
• Serve as a technical authority for evaluating new network technologies and innovations applicable to defense optical infrastructure.
• Define and drive research and development efforts involving novel approaches to classified network systems architecture.
• Collaborate with senior stakeholders, program managers, and customers to ensure designs align with DoD STIG, IA, and security compliance standards.
• Produce detailed technical documentation, architecture diagrams, and lifecycle management plans.

Required Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in network engineering and architecture within DoD or Federal classified environments.
• Demonstrated expertise in optical networking technologies, including with Ciena 6500 Packet-Optical systems, including DWDM, OTN, and WaveLogic transponders, within carrier-grade or classified environments.
• Strong understanding of DISA STIG compliance, IA controls, and DoD network security best practices.
• Proven experience leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams and managing enterprise-scale network design projects.
• Hands-on experience developing architecture roadmaps, R&D plans, and business continuity strategies.
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to executive leadership and non-technical stakeholders.

Clearance

• Active DoD Secret clearance required upon start.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Network Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Computer Science.
• Industry certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, JNCIE, or Optical Specialist (Ciena, Juniper, Cisco).
• Experience supporting VoSIP / SIPRNet or other classified voice and video deployments.
• Background in Tandberg / Cisco TelePresence and enterprise video integration.
• Prior experience in R&D leadership or innovation-focused defense network modernization programs.

Work Location

• Remote-based with CONUS travel anticipated 50% of the time

Compensation

• $90,000 - 125,000

Benefits

PEAKE offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your overall well-being:

• Medical, Dental & Vision plans through CareFirst
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with discretionary match, profit sharing, and 3% safe harbor contribution
• Paid Time Off: 15 days annually; Unlimited PTO after 5 years
• 11 Paid Holidays plus 5-day carryover allowance
• Education Reimbursement for approved coursework or trade training
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering mental health, financial, and family care support
• Company-Paid Life, Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits (DC Metro area)

Equal Opportunity Employer PEAKE hires based solely on business needs and the qualifications of each individual. We do not tolerate discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We are committed to compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws. Apply tot his job Apply To this Job