Role: SENIOR NETWORK ARCHITECT

• 12+ years of experience in Network architecture, Design and Implementation

• 5+ years of experience with ZTNA, SASE SSE solutions

• Strong expertise in Routing, Switching, Wireless, and Firewall technologies

• Hands-on experience with Cisco, Palo Alto, and Juniper platforms

Location: Candidates will need to work from the Client’s office in Renton, Washington in a hybrid model, 3 days a week. Remote work is not an option.

• Applications will be accepted until April 15, 2026

• This role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future

Responsibilities

• Architect, design, engineer, implement, and maintain high-throughput, low-latency network infrastructures across data center, cloud (AWS), and campus environments

• Design networks optimized for real-time gaming workloads, including latency-sensitive and bandwidth-intensive applications

• Enable and optimize remote workforce connectivity using Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), SASE, SSE solutions

• Lead ZTNA implementation in close coordination with security teams, vendors and business groups to ensure secure, scalable remote access

• Design and deploy next-generation architectures, including SD-WAN and cloud-native networking, to support distributed users and services

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (business, security, and engineering) to gather requirements and drive end-to-end delivery (design, implementation, testing)

• Optimize network performance through traffic engineering, QoS strategies, and latency reduction techniques

• Develop and maintain network architecture documentation, standards, and diagrams

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to Network engineering and Operations teams

• Continuously evaluate emerging technologies to improve network performance, scalability, and user experience, especially for gaming and remote environments

Required Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in Network architecture, Design and Implementation

• 5+ years of experience with ZTNA, SASE SSE solutions

• Strong expertise in Routing, Switching, Wireless, and Firewall technologies

• Hands-on experience with Cisco, Palo Alto, and Juniper platforms

• Experience designing and implementing SD-WAN solutions (Cisco SD-WAN or equivalent)

• Strong experience with cloud networking in AWS and multi-cloud transit

• Proven experience designing networks for high throughput, low latency, and real-time applications

• Experience designing remote-first or hybrid workforce environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with game studios or similar high-performance, distributed environments

• Deep understanding of gaming infrastructure requirements including content delivery, data delivery and real-time communication systems

• Strong knowledge of performance optimization techniques (latency reduction, packet loss mitigation, jitter control)

• Familiarity with global traffic management, CDN integration, and edge networking

• Relevant certifications (e.g., CCNP/CCIE, PCNSE, AWS Advanced Networking) are a plus

Key Competencies

• Expertise in designing low-latency, high-availability network architectures

• Ability to balance performance, security, and scalability in distributed environments

• Strong cross-functional collaboration and leadership skills

• Advanced troubleshooting and performance optimization mindset

• Excellent documentation and communication abilities

Salary and Other Compensation: The annual salary for the position is between $ 90,000/yr - $110,000/yr and depends on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate. This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.

Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance

• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off

• 401(k) plan and contributions

• Long-term/Short-term Disability

• Paid Parental Leave

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

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Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law

The Cognizant community:
We are a high caliber team who appreciate and support one another. Our people uphold an energetic, collaborative and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

• Cognizant is a global community with more than 300,000 associates around the world.
• We don’t just dream of a better way – we make it happen.
• We take care of our people, clients, company, communities and climate by doing what’s right.
• We foster an innovative environment where you can build the career path that’s right for you.

About us:
Cognizant is one of the world's leading professional services companies, transforming clients' business, operating, and technology models for the digital era. Our unique industry-based, consultative approach helps clients envision, build, and run more innovative and efficient businesses. Headquartered in the U.S., Cognizant (a member of the NASDAQ-100 and one of Forbes World’s Best Employers 2025) is consistently listed among the most admired companies in the world. Learn how Cognizant helps clients lead with digital at www.cognizant.com

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Disclaimer:
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.