Principal Network Architect

SkyGrid, a Boeing SparkCognition Company, exists to open the sky for autonomous flight. Based in Austin, Texas, SkyGrid builds high-assurance third-party services to enable the safe operations and airspace integration of autonomous aircraft. SkyGrid also acts as a key operational nexus for advanced air mobility, integrating and managing data, infrastructure, access, and traffic to support seamless and efficient air traffic services.  

The SkyGrid team is looking for a Principal Network Architect who will be responsible for the design and ownership of a robust hybrid, distributed, and cloud-based, network architecture in collaboration with IPT leads, Software and System architect..This role involves complete responsibility for network topology and conducting necessary trade studies to inform analysis and decision-making related to the system design deliverables. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in network architecture and experience leading complex systems integration in mission-critical environments in multidisciplinary environments. 

• Complete the topology and technological trades associated to the network architecture.  
• Complete t network architecture design, ensuring alignment with mission-critical requirements. 
• Validate the architecture against the  scalability, redundancy and security requirements. Provide support and evidence supporting the certification approach. 

• Network Architecture and Design: 
• Design and implement network architectures that support mission-critical ground-based aerospace systems. 
• Develop scalable, high-availability solutions to meet system requirements, including redundancy, failover, and load balancing. 
• Ensure the network design adheres to aerospace industry standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA, ICAO). 
• System Integration: 
• Integrate the internet based and ground-based data (traffic, weather, aeronautical data) from supplier. 
• Coordinate the network architecture effort across the teams.  

• Network Infrastructure Planning: 
• Plan and design new network infrastructure expansions or upgrades, considering future scalability, bandwidth needs, and latency requirements. 
• Collaborate with third-party vendors and internal teams to ensure that the network architecture aligns with hardware and software specifications. 
• Complete the supplier evaluation and recommended services level agreements and hardware components. 

• Security Architecture: 
• Design secure network architectures that meet stringent aerospace security requirements, ensuring data integrity, availability, and confidentiality. 
• Implement security measures like encryption, intrusion detection systems (IDS), firewalls, and VPNs as part of the architecture. 
• Ensure compliance with cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST, CIS).  
• Plan and execute the safety and security validation activities. Leadership 
• Plan the activities and report the status of the execution to the CE and the CPM 
• Coordinate the activities across the design IPT, qualification and simulation teams 
• Coordinate the architecture design with System and Software  architects 
• Flow down the plan and the direction to the team. 

• Bachelor’s degree in, Electrical, Computer, or related STEM degree from an accredited university or college. 
• 15+ years of related experience, preferably in the aerospace or telecom industry. 
• 7+ years of experience in leading multi-disciplinary team, SME, senior engineers and architects. 
• Experience with network design and simulation tools like Cisco Packet Tracer, SolarWinds, GNS3, or equivalent tools. 
• Experience with Visio or Lucid charts creating block diagrams, schematics, etc. 
• Deep knowledge of routing and switching protocols (OSPF, BGP, MPLS). 
• Experience with virtual LANs (VLANs) and network segmentation. 
• Proficiency in firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, and other security technologies. 
• Experience with securing network architectures, including encryption protocols, SSL/TLS, and multi-factor authentication. 
• Proficiency in network monitoring and performance tools (e.g., Wireshark, SNMP, NetFlow). 
• Ability to troubleshoot complex network issues using diagnostic tools. 
• Familiarity with aviation-related networking standards and technologies (ADS-B, radar integration, real-time systems). 
• Experience working with aerospace communication protocols. 
• Experience with hybrid network designs that include both on-premises and cloud-based resources (AWS, Azure). 
• Strong communication skills, self-driven and capable of participating in senior leadership discussions.  
• Strong presentation skills with the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.  
• Able to work effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.  

• Advanced Engineering degree (Masters) from an accredited institution  
• Familiarity with DO-160/DO-280, DO-254, etc. 

• Comprehensive Health Coverage from Day One: Enjoy immediate access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, including HSA and FSA options.
• Generous Retirement Contributions: Benefit from an automatic company 401k contribution program, with no match required, plus an additional company matching program to boost your retirement savings.
• Headspace Annual Membership: Prioritize your mental health with complimentary access to mindfulness and meditation resources.
• Discounted ClassPass Membership: Stay active and healthy with access to thousands of fitness studios and gyms nationwide.
• Investment in Your Growth: Receive an annual stipend for learning and development to support your continuous education and skill development
• Engaging Team Activities: Participate in quarterly team-building events and celebrations organized by our dedicated culture committee.
• Fully Stocked Kitchen: Enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day.