Role Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Technical Design Authority (TDA) to lead and execute a comprehensive Proof of Concept (PoC) for a next-generation enterprise network infrastructure. The TDA will be responsible for designing, validating, and documenting the technical implementation of LAN, Wi-Fi, automation, security, and monitoring capabilities across a multivendor environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• PoC Execution & Leadership
• Lead the end-to-end execution of the PoC phases: LAN, Wi-Fi, Automation, Security, and Monitoring.
• Coordinate with internal teams and vendors to ensure all test scenarios are executed as per plan.
• Validate programmability, dynamic segmentation, seamless roaming, and AI/ML capabilities.
• Design & Documentation
• Develop and maintain high-level and low-level design documents.
• Ensure alignment with enterprise architecture and security standards.
• Document test results, deviations, and recommendations.
• Multivendor Integration
• Configure and test Cisco ISE and Aruba ClearPass for NAC and profiling.
• Validate interoperability between Cisco and Aruba WLAN controllers and APs.
• Automation & Scripting
• Develop and execute Ansible playbooks and Python scripts for build/run automation.
• Implement Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP) and microsegmentation policies via APIs.
• Security & Compliance
• Validate 802.1X authentication, rogue AP detection, and enforcement policies.
• Test VRF macro-segmentation and SDA microsegmentation transitions.
• Monitoring & Management
• Integrate with SIEM platforms (Splunk/ELK).
• Demonstrate E2E visibility, backup/restore, and API integrations.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Technical Expertise
• Deep understanding of enterprise LAN/Wi-Fi architectures.
• Hands-on experience with Cisco and Aruba networking platforms.
• Strong knowledge of 802.1X, EAP-TLS, NAC, VLANs, SGTs, and VRFs.
• Automation & APIs
• Proficiency in Ansible, Python scripting, and RESTful APIs.
• Experience with network automation and ZTP workflows.
• Security & Monitoring
• Familiarity with SIEM tools (Splunk, ELK), PKI environments, and posture-based access control.
• Experience in implementing and validating security policies.
• Tools & Platforms
• Experience with iperf3, DHCP/NTP servers, network management platforms.
• Familiarity with AI/ML-based network analytics and troubleshooting.
• Soft Skills
• Strong documentation and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams.
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Cisco CCNP/CCIE or Aruba Certified Expert.
• Experience with Wi-Fi 6/6E/7 and MLO testing.
• Exposure to SDA fabric and VXLAN overlays.

Deliverables:

• Verified PoC test results and reports.
• Technical design documentation.
• Automation scripts and playbooks.
• Recommendations for production deployment.