Principal Network Architect

Join to apply for the Principal Network Architect role at Equinix Equinix is the world’s digital infrastructure company®, shortening the path to connectivity to enable the innovations that enrich our work, life and planet. A place where tech thinkers and future builders turn bold ideas into breakthrough experiences, we welcome your unique perspective. Help us challenge assumptions, uncover bias, and remove barriers—because progress starts with fresh ideas. You’ll find belonging, purpose, and a team that welcomes you—because when you feel valued, you’re empowered to do your best work. Responsibilities Participates in designing next generation infrastructure and solutions for layers 1-3 network services Analyzes, selects, and performs proof of concept testing on optical, switching, and transport technology options from various vendors Has deep understanding of vendor community network solutions and capabilities, and influences changes in their roadmaps to meet Equinix's needs Develops configuration guides to be used by NSE and Software Engineering personnel Architects and validates solutions based on Product Management and NSE requirements. Influences changes. Testing & Validation Develops test plans and strategies to ensure that architectural concepts and features work as anticipated and meet the requirements provided by Product Management and/or NSE. Provides input to test plans to be conducted by Network Engineering, System Integration and Testing and Software Engineering to ensure end‑to‑end scenarios are evaluated. Participates in deployment readiness evaluation with Global Network Engineering and NSE teams. Vendor Management Understands platform vendor roadmaps and technology and translates those into solutions/services. Qualifications 15+ years experience in Network Engineering and Architecture Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Computer Engineering or Related Field preferred Has practical knowledge of network automation techniques, and understands how to use and write tests for network automation. Python knowledge and SQL knowledge are both pluses Substantive knowledge of network (function) disaggregation, including merchant silicon and ODM solutions Expert level knowledge with service provider networking technologies and protocols, including BGP, IS‑IS, MPLS, Segment Routing, RSVP, QoS, EVPN, VXLAN, traffic engineering (backbone & edge) Targeted Pay Range United States – Redwood City Office GHQ: $163,000 – $245,000 USD / Annual United States – Other posted locations not specifically listed: $136,000 – $204,000 USD / Annual United States – CA Non‑Bay Area, AK, CT, DC, IL, MD, MA, NJ, NY, VA, WA: $150,000 – $224,000 USD / Annual United States – CA Bay Area: $163,000 – $245,000 USD / Annual Canada – Remote Location – CA: $139,000 – $209,000 CAD / Annual Equinix Benefits As an employee, you become important to Equinix’s success. We ensure all your benefits are in line with our core values: competitive, inclusive, sustainable, connected and efficient. Where you are in your career and life, you’ll be able to enhance your experience and bring your whole self to work. Employee Assistance Program: An Employee Assistance program is available to all employees. US Benefits: Insurance: Enroll in health, life, disability and voluntary plans designed for you and your eligible family members. Retirement: You and Equinix may contribute to a retirement plan to help you plan for your financial future. Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays: Receive an accrued amount of PTO each pay period along with various paid holidays. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific plan or program terms. Canada Core Benefits: Insurance: Enroll in healthcare coverage that complements the provincial healthcare system, along with life, disability and optional benefit plans. Retirement: Enroll in Equinix-sponsored retirement or savings plans: Defined Contribution Pension Plan (DCPP), Group Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax‑Free Savings Plan (TFSA). Vacation and Paid Holidays: Equinix offers both vacation and personal time, along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Equinix is committed to ensuring that our employment process is open to all individuals, including those with a disability. If you are a qualified candidate and need assistance or an accommodation, please let us know by completing this form. Equinix is an Equal Employment Opportunity and, in the U.S., an Affiliation‐Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to unlawful rating of race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, place of birth, citizenship, sex, pregnancy / childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, age, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, political / organizational affiliation, status as a victim or family member of a victim of crime or abuse, or any other status protected by applicable law. Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Information Technology Industry Internet Publishing #J-18808-Ljbffr