Cisco Network Engineer - Technical Design Authority(TDA)...

Job Description Job Title: Cisco Network Engineer – Technical Design Authority (TDA) Contract Type: 12-Month Contract (Inside IR35) Rate: £400 – £425 per day Location: Hybrid – 1 day per week onsite in Hampshire Clearance Required: SC Clearance (Active) – Mandatory Role Overview: We are seeking an experienced Cisco Network Engineer – Technical Design Authority (TDA) to join our team on an initial 12-month contract. You will play a critical role in shaping and overseeing the design, architecture, and governance of robust Cisco-based network solutions across a complex enterprise environment. As the TDA, you will act as the final authority on technical network designs, ensuring alignment with enterprise standards while engaging with key stakeholders to transform business requirements into technical architectures. Major Roles and Responsibilities: Architecture & Design: • Lead the design of advanced Cisco network solutions across enterprise, data center, and SD-WAN environments. • Define architectural standards, design patterns, and reusable templates for network topologies. • Produce and maintain high-quality design documentation and technical blueprints. Governance: • Oversee design governance and ensure compliance with enterprise architecture frameworks. • Act as the final approver and quality gate for all network solution designs. • Review and validate third-party and in-house network designs for compliance. Stakeholder Engagement: • Engage with internal and external stakeholders, including project managers, engineers, and business leaders. • Translate business and technical requirements into actionable network designs. • Represent the network architecture function in design review and steering committees. Technology Strategy: • Provide thought leadership and recommendations on emerging Cisco technologies (e.g., DNA Center, ACI, SecureX). • Support the development of technology roadmaps and the adoption of innovative solutions. • Drive continuous improvement and modernization initiatives across the network landscape. Required Skills & Experience: Certifications (Minimum One Required): • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) • Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Technical Expertise: • Proven experience in designing and implementing enterprise-grade Cisco network solutions. • Deep understanding of Cisco technologies such as ACI, DNA Center, SD-WAN, SecureX, and ISE. • Experience in multi-domain network design, including LAN/WAN, security, and cloud integration. Soft Skills: • Strong verbal and written communication skills. • Demonstrated ability to lead design discussions and influence technical direction. • Excellent stakeholder management and customer-facing skills. Additional Information: • Immediate start available. • Candidate must hold active SC Clearance. • Hybrid working model with on-site presence required 1 day per week in Hampshire.