Network Architect – Columbia, South Carolina (Hybrid) Are you a strategic thinker with deep experience in networking, infrastructure, and IT security? The State of South Carolina is seeking an expert Network Architect for a hybrid position in Columbia, SC , to lead mission-critical networking initiatives supporting Medicaid and other public services. This long-term contract role involves network design, implementation, monitoring, and optimization across state offices. Candidates must have 11+ years of experience and hold an active CCNA or CCNE certification . Network Architect – Role Overview As a Network Architect , you will oversee the planning, configuration, and deployment of network infrastructure for a public health agency. You will also provide recommendations for future enhancements while maintaining security compliance with frameworks like HIPAA and MARS-E . This role demands strong knowledge of Palo Alto firewalls , Cisco routers/switches , DNS/DHCP , and experience managing SolarWinds , VMware , and Meraki Wireless Access Points . Network Architect – Key Responsibilities 1. Network Configuration and Installation Configure, install, and upgrade network hardware and software.

Ensure installations meet both agency and industry standards.

2. Network Monitoring and Diagnostics Monitor network performance, usage, and traffic using diagnostic tools.

Run stress tests to forecast capacity and performance thresholds.

3. Infrastructure Analysis and Optimization Review network configurations and correct inefficiencies.

Design solutions that improve network performance, availability, and scalability.

4. Security and Compliance Deploy secure configurations following HIPAA, CDC, and MARS-E standards.

Implement and maintain IPSEC VPN tunnels, DNS filtering, and URL filtering.

5. Strategic Planning and Leadership Contribute to the agency’s long-term network architecture roadmap.

Assess feasibility and cost for upcoming network projects.

6. Site Travel and Field Support Travel to multiple state offices to deploy and maintain network infrastructure.

Provide field-level troubleshooting, upgrades, and assessments.

7. Documentation and Reporting Maintain comprehensive network diagrams and documentation.

Generate performance and incident reports for agency leadership.

Network Architect – Required Experience 11+ years in networking and infrastructure

5+ years in server, systems, and firewall administration

Extensive experience with Palo Alto 3k and 5k series firewalls

Hands-on with Cisco routers, switches, and Meraki devices

Experience configuring SolarWinds , DNS/DHCP , and VPN tunnels

Familiarity with HIPAA, CDC compliance, and public-sector frameworks

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent industry experience

Active CCNA or CCNE certification required

Preferred Skills for Network Architect Knowledge of VMware NSX and vSphere

Experience with F5 Load Balancers and Cisco Umbrella

SCCM for systems management

Infoblox DNS/DHCP management

Forescout for endpoint access control

Experience in Medicaid, social services, or public benefit IT programs

Ready to Apply? This Network Architect position offers an exciting opportunity to build, scale, and secure critical government systems that impact lives across South Carolina. Check out other positions Let’s discuss your next career move FAQs – Network Architect – Columbia, SC Where is this job located? Columbia, South Carolina. This is a hybrid role.

What certification is required? Either CCNA or CCNE certification is mandatory.

Is this a contract or permanent role? This is a long-term contract position.

What’s the minimum experience required? A minimum of 11+ years in IT networking roles.

Do I need experience with Palo Alto firewalls? Yes. Hands-on experience configuring Palo Alto firewalls is required.

Will I travel for this role? Yes. You must travel to regional offices across the state as needed.

Is experience in Medicaid or social services preferred? Yes. Strongly preferred for this public-sector role.

Do I need to know DNS or DHCP? Yes. You should be confident in deploying and maintaining DNS/DHCP infrastructure.

Are HIPAA and compliance frameworks important? Absolutely. This role requires alignment with HIPAA, CDC, and MARS-E standards.

What firewall brands are used? Palo Alto , Cisco , and experience with Forescout is a plus.

Do I need server virtualization experience? Yes. VMware vSphere or NSX is preferred.

What monitoring tools are used? Primarily SolarWinds , SCCM, and cloud-based monitoring tools.

Are scripting or programming skills needed? Not mandatory, but automation experience is a bonus.

What’s the interview process like? Includes a technical screening and final discussion with network leadership.

What is the team size? Mid-sized IT team supporting infrastructure across multiple offices.

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