Lead Network Engineer

About Us

Clayco is a full-service, turnkey real estate development, master planning, architecture, engineering, and construction firm that safely delivers clients across North America the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $7.6 billion in revenue for 2024, Clayco specializes in the "art and science of building," providing fast track, efficient solutions for industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential related building projects.

The Role We Want You For

As the Lead Network Engineer, Infrastructure Services, you will be the principal architect and technical leader for our enterprise network infrastructure. In this hands-on role, you will design and evolve scalable networks across on-premises and cloud environments, while also diving into complex troubleshooting when needed. You will mentor, guide, and support other network engineers, leading by example and fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and technical excellence. We are looking for a forward-thinking engineer who can drive network automation and cloud networking initiatives, leverage Infrastructure as Code and AI-driven tools, and ensure our network is secure, resilient, and future-ready.

The Specifics of the Role

• Lead the architecture, design, and implementation of enterprise network solutions across LAN/WAN, wireless, and hybrid cloud environments.
• Mentor, coach, and develop network engineers, creating an environment where knowledge sharing, professional growth, and continuous improvement are core values.
• Provide technical leadership in the deployment and operation of Cisco Catalyst and Cisco Meraki platforms, ensuring reliable switching, routing, and wireless performance.
• Manage the deployment and maintenance of next-generation firewalls such as Palo Alto and Fortigate.
• Guide the integration of on-premises and cloud networks, including Azure and AWS, with a strong emphasis on automation, Infrastructure as Code using Terraform, and repeatable deployment practices.
• Oversee the design, operation, and optimization of Aruba ClearPass Network Access Control (NAC) to enforce secure access policies, integrate with authentication systems, and provide enterprise-wide device visibility.
• Develop, maintain, and test disaster recovery and business continuity plans for network services to ensure resilience and continuity.
• Collaborate with peers in infrastructure, security, and application teams to ensure network services support broader enterprise priorities and technology initiatives.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices to continuously improve network operations.
• Oversee network automation initiatives, implementing tools, scripts, and processes that reduce manual effort, increase agility, and align the network with DevOps practices.
• Facilitate the introduction of AI-driven insights and AIOps capabilities into network operations, using analytics and automation to proactively detect anomalies, optimize performance, and predict failures before they impact the business.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, related field, or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years of progressive networking experience, including at least 3 years in a senior or lead engineering role with responsibility for design and architecture.
• Expert-level knowledge in routing, switching, and wireless networking, with hands-on experience deploying, configuring, and troubleshooting Cisco Catalyst and Meraki platforms.
• Proficiency with cloud networking within Azure and AWS, including hybrid connectivity, security groups, and virtual network architecture.
• Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex network issues across on-premises and cloud environments.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and departments.
• Strategic mindset with exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities; comfortable leading in fast-paced and high-pressure situations.
• Experience with Infrastructure as Code using Terraform and an ability to integrate automation practices into network operations preferred.
• Certifications preferred: CCNP, and AZ-700 (Azure Networking) or ANS-CO1 (AWS Advanced Networking Specialty).
• Travel Required: 10-15%

Some Things You Should Know

• No other builder can offer the collaborative design-build approach that Clayco does.
• We work on creative, complex, award-winning, high-profile jobs.
• The pace is fast!

Why Clayco?

• 2024 Best Places to Work – Crain’s Chicago Business, St. Louis Business Journal, Los Angeles Business Journal, and Phoenix Business Journal.
• 2024 ENR Midwest – Midwest Contractor (#1).
• 2024 ENR Top 100 Design-Build Firms – Design-Build Contractor (Top 5).
• 2024 ENR Top 100 Green Contractors – Green Contractor (Top 5).

Benefits

• Discretionary Annual Bonus: Subject to company and individual performance.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package Including: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401k, generous PTO and paid company holidays, employee assistance program, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability coverage, learning & development programs and more!

Compensation

• The salary range for this position considers a wide range of factors in making compensation decisions including but not limited to: Education, qualifications, skills, training, experience, certifications, internal equity, and location. Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.