Network Architect - Information Technology Executive 1

Full Job Description

The Junior Network Architect is an entry-level architecture role within the Architecture & Engineering team. The position supports Enterprise network architecture efforts across Commonwealth agencies by assisting with the planning, analysis, documentation, and modernization of network systems. Working under the direction of senior Network Architects and the Network Architecture Chief, the incumbent contributes to standardized, secure, and scalable network designs that support Commonwealth business and technology objectives. This role is designed for early-career professionals seeking to develop enterprise architecture skills while gaining exposure to large-scale network environments, modern networking technologies, and cross-agency coordination.

Requirements

The Junior Network Architect assists senior architectural staff with the design, documentation, and analysis of Enterprise network architectures, including LAN, WAN, SD-WAN, wireless, data center, and network security components. The incumbent prepares logical and physical network diagrams, supports the development of architecture standards and design patterns, and documents configuration guidelines and architectural decisions.

The position supports implementation planning activities by assisting with migration strategies, cutover planning, and coordination with engineering teams and agency IT staff to ensure approved architectural designs are implemented as intended. The incumbent reviews existing network environments to identify design gaps, inconsistencies, legacy technical debt, and opportunities for modernization. Additional duties include supporting architectural review processes, analyzing network performance and compliance data, assisting with technology evaluations, and contributing to documentation related to security, business continuity, and disaster recovery architecture. The Junior Network Architect collaborates with engineering, operations, security, and agency partners to promote consistent, secure, and supportable network solutions across the Commonwealth.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with 30-minute lunch.

Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, three days a week in the office, non-negotiable.

In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania.

If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time.

Additional details may be provided during the interview.

• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Six years of professional information technology experience and a bachelor’s degree; or
• Ten years of professional information technology experience; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Additional Requirements:

• You must be able to travel as required, including occasional overnight travel.
• You must be available to work outside normal business hours when necessary to support implementation activities, maintenance windows, or incident response.
• You must be able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• You must be able to use a computer and standard office software for documentation, analysis, and technical research.
• You must be able to work independently on assigned tasks while collaborating effectively within a team environment.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Preferred Criteria (not required):

• Experience supporting enterprise network environments in a large or complex organization.
• Familiarity with network architecture concepts, design documentation, or architectural review processes.
• Exposure to routing, switching, wireless, SD-WAN, or network security technologies.
• Experience creating or maintaining network diagrams, technical documentation, or configuration standards.
• Familiarity with cloud networking concepts or hybrid network environments.
• Industry-recognized entry-level networking or security certifications, such as Cisco CCNA, CompTIA Network+, or CompTIA Security+.
• Demonstrated interest in professional development and advancement within network architecture or engineering disciplines.

Legal Requirements:

• You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

How to Apply:

Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position.

Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).

If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.

Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.

Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce.

The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania.

The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law.

All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.