Principal Network Architect

Who are we?

A place where tech thinkers and future builders turn bold ideas into breakthrough experiences, we welcome your unique perspective.Help us challenge assumptions, uncover bias, and remove barriers—because progress starts with fresh ideas. You’ll find belonging, purpose, and a team that welcomes you—because when you feel valued, you’re empowered to do your best work.

Job Summary

Design and develop interconnection solutions and services based on product management and NSE requirements. This includes proof of concept testing and configuration development on network infrastructure.

Responsibilities
Architecture Development

• Participates in designing next generation infrastructure and solutions for layers 1-3 network services

• Analyzes, selects, and performs proof of concept testing on optical, switching, and transport technology options from various vendors

• Has deep understanding of vendor community network solutions and capabilities, and influences changes in their roadmaps to meet Equinix's needs

• Develops configuration guides to be used by NSE and Software Engineering personnel

• Architects and validates solutions based on Product Management and NSE requirements. Influences changes.

Testing & Validation

• Develops test plans and strategies to ensure that architectural concepts and features work as anticipated and meet the requirements provided by Product Management and/or NSE, including alternative approaches such as vendor conducted testing

• Provides input to test plans to be conducted by Network Engineering, System Integration and Testing and Software Engineering to ensure end to end scenarios are evaluated

• Participates in deployment readiness evaluation with Global Network Engineering and NSE teams

Vendor Management

• Understands platform vendor roadmaps and technology and translates those into solutions/services

Qualifications

• 15+ years experience in Network Engineering and Architecture

• Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Computer Engineering or Related Field preferred

• Has practical knowledge of network automation techniques, and understands how to use and write tests for network automation.

• Python knowledge and SQL knowledge are both pluses

• Substantive knowledge of network (function) disaggregation, including merchant silicon and ODM solutions

• Expert level knowledge with service provider networking technologies and protocols, including BGP, IS-IS, MPLS, Segment Routing, RSVP, QoS, EVPN, VXLAN, traffic engineering (backbone & edge)

The targeted pay range for this position in the following location is / locations are:

United States - Other posted locations not specifically listed : 136,000 - 204,000 USD / Annual

Our pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full-time position determined by role, level, and location.The pay range shown is based on our compensation structure in place at the time of posting and may be updated periodically based on business needs. Individual pay is based on additional factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training.

The targeted pay range listed reflects the base pay only and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Employees are eligible for bonus, and equity may be offered depending on the position.

Equinix Benefits

As an employee, you become important to Equinix’s success. We ensure all your benefits are in line with our core values: competitive, inclusive, sustainable, connected and efficient. We keep them competitive within the current marketplace to ensure we’re providing you with the best package possible. So, wherever you are in your career and life, you’ll be able to enhance your experience and bring your whole self to work.

Employee Assistance Program: An Employee Assistance program is available to all employees.

US Benefits: - Insurance: You may enroll in health, life, disability and voluntary plans that are designed for you and your eligible family members. - Retirement: You and Equinix may contribute to a retirement plan to help you plan for your financial future. - Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays: You will receive an accrued amount of PTO each pay period along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific plan or program terms.

Equinix is committed to ensuring that our employment process is open to all individuals, including those with a disability.  If you are a qualified candidate and need assistance or an accommodation, please let us know by completing this form.

Equinix is an Equal Employment Opportunity and, in the U.S., an Affirmative Action employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to unlawful consideration of race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, place of birth, citizenship, sex, pregnancy / childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, age, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, political / organizational affiliation, status as a victim or family member of a victim of crime or abuse, or any other status protected by applicable law. 

We use artificial intelligence in our hiring process. Learn more here.