LOCATION: Poughkeepsie, 5 times a week from client (ONSITE OPPORTUNITY)
Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without sponsorship. Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future.
As a Network Engineer, L3 support specializing in VSS and Nexus integration services, you'll be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex network infrastructures, focusing on Cisco Nexus 6000 or 7000 or 9000 series switches and Cisco Virtual Switch System technologies, ensuring high availability, performance, and security.
About Cognizant’s CIS Practice:
Cognizant’s CIS (Cognizant Infrastructure Services) Practice is a global leader in providing IT infrastructure services. We deliver innovative solutions to optimize and transform IT infrastructure, ensuring business agility and operational efficiency. Our services include cloud computing, data center management, network services, and cybersecurity. We focus on understanding client needs and delivering customized solutions to drive business success.
In this role, you will:
Network Design and Implementation:
- Design, implement, and maintain complex network infrastructures, including LAN, WAN, and data center networks.
- Focus on Cisco Nexus 6000 or 7000 or 9000 series switches and Cisco VSS technologies.
- Ensure network designs meet business requirements, performance standards, and security policies.
- Develop and document network topologies and configurations.
VSS and Nexus Expertise:
- Deep understanding of Cisco VSS technology, including fabric partitioning, redundancy, and failover mechanisms.
- Extensive experience with Cisco Nexus 6000 or 7000 or 9000 series switches, including configuration, troubleshooting, and optimization.
- Proficient in implementing and managing Nexus Fabric, including Virtual Port Channels (vPC) and Nexus 9000 series switch features.
Troubleshooting and Problem Resolution:
- Diagnose and resolve complex network issues, including performance bottlenecks, connectivity problems, and security vulnerabilities.
- Utilize network monitoring tools and protocols to identify and address issues proactively.
- Document and communicate network issues and resolutions effectively.
Network Security:
- Implement and maintain network security measures, including access control lists (ACLs), firewalls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest security threats and vulnerabilities.
Collaboration and Communication
- Collaborate with other IT teams, including server, storage, and application teams, to ensure network infrastructure meets business needs.
- Communicate network status, issues, and resolutions effectively to stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement:
- Stay current with the latest network technologies and industry best practices.
- Propose and implement improvements to network infrastructure and processes.
Project Management:
- Participate in the planning, execution, and completion of network projects.
- Manage network changes and upgrades effectively.
What you’ll need to succeed (required skills):
Extensive hands-on experience in network engineering, with a strong focus on Cisco technologies.
Extensive knowledge of networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, OSPF, BGP, MPLS).
Experience with network operating systems (e.g., IOS, NX-OS).
Familiarity with network monitoring and management tools (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG).
Strong understanding of network security principles and practices.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively, Cisco VSS (Virtual Switching System) Virtual Port Channels (vPC) & Virtual Device Contexts (VDCs)
Nexus NX-OS Devices Integration & Upgradation Services
Data Center Software & Hardware technologies refresh
F5 Load Balancers Configuration & Operations, Troubleshooting
Cisco Wireless Technologies configurations & support
In-depth knowledge of DMVPN setup, support & configurations.
Certifications:
Cisco certifications (e.g., CCNP, CCIE) are highly desirable.
Compensation: We are offering between $110,000 – $130,000. Applications will be accepted until Jun 20th, 2026.
This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.
Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
• 401(k) plan and contributions
• Long-term/Short-term Disability
• Paid Parental Leave
What we offer
- The chance to work with impact. Here, you’re empowered to bring your biggest thinking to help our company and clients improve everyday life.
- Ownership over your career. Stay at the top of your game through our award-winning learning and development ecosystem. And when your ambitions change or we offer new opportunities, we help you pivot by providing reskilling, on-the-job learning and guidance to find new roles that might be a better fit.
- The opportunity to thrive on a high caliber team with heart. We celebrate each other’s experiences and perspectives and promote a sense of belonging through our affinity groups and diversity and inclusion initiatives.
- A comprehensive total rewards package, including a competitive salary and a pension plan with matching contributions.
- Flexible health and financial benefits to support you and your eligible dependents—from day one.
- True work-life balance. Be at your best through paid time off, flexible work arrangements, volunteering opportunities, social events, and so much more.
About us
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, building the bridge between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, realize tangible returns and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.
Other employment-related information
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, provincial or local laws.
If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email [email protected] with your request and contact information.
Language requirements vary depending on roles, but we ask that all candidates have basic English proficiency for company-wide communications purposes. For roles based in Quebec, professional English proficiency is required, as you’ll deliver services to and collaborate with stakeholders outside the province who may not speak French.
