Enterprise Network Configuration & Infrastructure Specialist

We are seeking a highly experienced and meticulous freelance Enterprise Network Configuration & Infrastructure Specialist to oversee and execute significant configuration changes and improvements across our complex enterprise network. This project involves optimizing routing, switching, and overall network infrastructure for enhanced performance, security, and scalability.

The ideal candidate will possess deep knowledge of multi-vendor network environments and proven expertise in configuring and troubleshooting large-scale networks. This role is crucial for ensuring the stability and efficiency of our core network services.

Key Deliverables & Responsibilities:

• Conduct a comprehensive audit of existing network configurations across routers, switches, and load balancers.
• Gather requirements for network segmentation, performance improvements, security hardening, and future scalability.
• Design and implement optimized routing policies (OSPF, BGP, EIGRP) for redundancy and efficiency.
• Configure advanced switching features, including VLANs, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), EtherChannel/LACP, and port security.
• Implement and verify network segmentation policies using VLANs, ACLs, and potentially VRFs.
• Configure network security features such as network access control (NAC), 802.1X, and basic firewall rules on network devices.
• Assist in the configuration of network load balancers (e.g., F5, NGINX Plus, HAProxy) for critical applications.
• Ensure proper configuration of network monitoring (SNMP, NetFlow) and logging (Syslog) for all managed devices.
• Perform thorough testing of all implemented configurations, including connectivity, performance, and security validations.
• Create and update detailed network documentation, including logical and physical topologies, configuration baselines, and operational procedures.
• Provide knowledge transfer and best practices to our internal IT team.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Extensive experience (6+ years) in configuring and managing complex enterprise-level networks across multiple vendors.
• Deep expertise in routing protocols (OSPF, BGP, EIGRP), switching technologies (VLANs, STP, LACP), and network segmentation.
• Proficiency with network devices from major vendors (e.g., Cisco, Juniper, Arista, HP/Aruba).
• Strong understanding of network security principles and implementation (ACLs, 802.1X, NAC).
• Experience with network load balancers (F5, HAProxy, NGINX Plus) is highly desirable.
• Excellent network troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Strong documentation, communication, and presentation abilities.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CCNP Enterprise, JNCIP, CCIE, JNCIE) are highly preferred.