Network Architect (Azure) contract

Senior Network Architect (Azure)

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Network Architect with deep expertise in Microsoft Azure to design, implement, and optimize scalable, secure, and high-performance network solutions. This role will be responsible for shaping cloud network strategy, ensuring best practices, and supporting complex hybrid and multi-cloud environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and architect enterprise-grade network solutions within Microsoft Azure, including hybrid connectivity.

• Lead the development of network architecture standards, policies, and best practices.

• Implement and manage Azure networking services such as Virtual Networks (VNets), VPN Gateway, ExpressRoute, Azure Firewall, Load Balancers, and Application Gateway.

• Design secure connectivity between on-premises infrastructure and Azure environments.

• Optimize network performance, scalability, and cost-efficiency across cloud environments.

• Collaborate with security teams to enforce Zero Trust architecture and compliance requirements.

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to network engineers and cloud teams.

• Troubleshoot complex networking issues across hybrid and cloud-native environments.

• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend improvements to existing architecture.

• Produce and maintain detailed architecture documentation and diagrams.

Required Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in network architecture, engineering, or related roles.

• Strong hands-on experience with Microsoft Azure networking services.

• Deep understanding of TCP/IP, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), DNS, and network security principles.

• Proven experience designing hybrid cloud networking solutions.

• Experience with Firewalls, network security groups (NSGs), and micro-segmentation.

• Familiarity with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools such as Terraform or ARM templates.

• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Microsoft certifications such as:

• Azure Solutions Architect Expert

• Azure Network Engineer Associate

• Experience with multi-cloud environments (AWS, GCP).

• Knowledge of SD-WAN and network virtualization technologies.

• Experience with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines.

• Scripting skills (PowerShell, Python).

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and architectural design

• Strong communication and stakeholder management

• Problem-solving and decision-making

• Attention to detail and documentation rigor

• Leadership and mentoring capabilities