Principal Network Engineer

Kforce is working with a client in search of a Principal Network Engineer - Global Infrastructure & Cloud Connectivity, to join their team in Boston, MA. Summary: Are you a hands-on technical leader ready to architect and elevate a global network infrastructure? We are seeking a Principal Network Engineer to join our Americas-based team in New York or Boston, where you will play a pivotal role in designing and managing enterprise-scale networks across 44 offices worldwide, multiple data centers, and cloud environments spanning North America, EMEA, and APAC. This is a player/coach opportunity-ideal for someone who thrives in both leadership and execution. You will guide a team of engineers while remaining deeply involved in architecture, implementation, and innovation. What You'll Do:

• Lead and mentor a team of network engineers while staying hands-on with design, build, and deployment of global network infrastructure
• Architect and manage underlay (routers, switches, cabling) and overlay (software-defined, multi-tenant) network solutions across on-prem and cloud (AWS primary, Azure secondary)
• Implement secure LAN/WAN/SDWAN, data center, and cloud connectivity across global sites
• Collaborate with Information Security to translate policy into compliant network designs and support audits and remediation
• Optimize network performance, resilience, and monitoring across all regions
• Manage carrier relationships and regional connectivity strategies across EMEA, APAC, and the Americas
• Provide Tier III escalation support for complex network issues
• Drive Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) adoption using Terraform or similar tools
• Implement and maintain robust network security controls including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention, segmentation, and encryption
• Contribute to global architecture standards and documentation
• Stay ahead of trends in software-defined networking, automation, and security
• Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline or equivalent practical experience
• 10+ years of enterprise network engineering experience, including global environments (U.S. and EMEA required; APAC preferred)
• Proven leadership experience with a track record of mentoring and developing engineering talent
• Deep expertise in traditional (L2/L3, BGP, OSPF) and modern software-defined networking
• Strong proficiency with Cisco technologies (Nexus preferred)
• Hands-on experience with AWS networking (VPCs, Transit Gateway, Direct Connect) and familiarity with Azure
• Experience with Terraform and Infrastructure-as-Code
• Advanced knowledge of network security technologies and practices
• Global network design experience, including carrier sourcing and regional communications nuances
• Excellent troubleshooting, documentation, and communication skills
• Preferred certifications: CCNP or higher, AWS Solutions Architect, or equivalent

• Be part of a global transformation initiative with the opportunity to shape the future of enterprise networking
• Work in a dynamic, high-impact environment where your expertise directly influences infrastructure strategy and execution
• Enjoy a collaborative culture that values innovation, ownership, and continuous improvement
• Competitive bonus structure and long-term incentive opportunities, including equity grants to reward your contributions and grow with your impact