Principal Network Engineer
6+ Month Contract (Likely Extensions)
Hybrid Onsite – Salt Lake City, UT
Target Rate: $75–$85/hr
We’re partnering with a global organization to hire a Principal Network Engineer who will lead high-impact enterprise initiatives across a multi-site, international environment.
This is a hands-on technical leadership role where you will own major network projects, strengthen security posture, and serve as the highest escalation point for complex incidents.
If you enjoy building resilient, secure, scalable networks and influencing architecture across regions, this role offers both impact and autonomy.
Design and deliver network initiatives including hardware refreshes, new site deployments, migrations, SD-WAN implementations, Wi-Fi upgrades, and segmentation strategies (VLAN, VRF, firewall zones, micro-segmentation)
Develop detailed implementation, test, and rollback plans
Execute changes through formal change management processes
Standardize configurations using automation and reusable templates
Implement and maintain secure controls including firewalls, VPNs, secure routing, AAA (RADIUS/TACACS+), and device hardening
Support vulnerability remediation and audit readiness
Integrate logging and telemetry with SIEM platforms to enhance detection and response
Collaborate with Cybersecurity teams to align network architecture with security strategy
Own complex incidents end-to-end
Perform advanced troubleshooting including packet captures and vendor debugging
Conduct root cause analysis and provide clear remediation plans
Provide leadership and technical guidance to junior engineers and MSP partners
Partner with Infrastructure, Cloud, Security, Telecom/OT, and external vendors
Produce clear documentation, architecture diagrams, SOPs, and operational standards
Communicate technical findings effectively to both technical teams and leadership
10+ years of enterprise Network Engineering experience
Experience supporting multi-site environments (multi-country preferred)
Experience serving as the senior escalation point for complex issues
Routing & Switching
Cisco IOS-XE / NX-OS
BGP, OSPF
VLAN / VRF
High availability and redundancy
QoS
Firewall & Security
Palo Alto, Fortinet, Cisco ASA/FTD, Check Point
VPN architecture and segmentation
NAC / 802.1x
Secure policy design and management
Monitoring & Telemetry
SolarWinds, LogicMonitor, PRTG, ThousandEyes
SNMP, NetFlow/sFlow, syslog
Troubleshooting
Wireshark / tcpdump
traceroute / mtr
Vendor debug tools
Automation & Infrastructure as Code
Ansible
Python
Git
Terraform (or similar tools)
ITSM
ServiceNow (or similar)
Incident, change, and problem management
Strong ownership mindset and ability to operate independently
Excellent cross-team coordination and communication skills
Comfortable presenting to leadership when needed
Continuous learner who embraces new technologies and process improvement
Welcome to ConsultNet, a premier national provider of technology talent and solutions. Our expertise spans across project services, contract-to-hire, direct search, and managed services onshore, nearshore, and hybrid. For over 25 years, we have connected thousands of consultants with meaningful roles through a personal, communication-driven approach, partnering with a diverse client base to build high-performing teams and create lasting impact. Our comprehensive service offerings cover a wide range of technology and engineering positions across key markets nationwide. Learn more at www.consultnet.com .
We champion equality and inclusivity, proudly supporting an Equal Opportunity Employer policy. We welcome applicants regardless of Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other status protected by law.