Solution Architect Lead (Networking)

Job Title: SA Lead Networking (Cisco)

Job Location: Bangalore/Hyderabad

Working Hours: Day Shift, 5 Days a Week

Experience: 10+

Certifications: CCNA, CCNP

Presales Lead-NGN role must demonstrate deep technical expertise across a wide range of networking domains, from SD-WAN and SDN to advanced Cisco platforms, data center architecture, security, and management solutions. This expertise is critical to providing tailored, forward-thinking network solutions that address the complex needs of modern enterprise environments.

Mandate Skills:

The Presales Lead-NGN role requires a comprehensive understanding of both on-premises and cloud networking concepts. The candidate should possess in-depth knowledge of key networking technologies and architectures, including:

1. SD-WAN & SASE Architecture: A strong grasp of Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) principles and components, along with the integration and deployment of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) architecture. Understanding of how these technologies optimize WAN performance, enhance security, and reduce operational costs is crucial.
2. Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Automation & Network Management: Deep knowledge of SDN concepts, automation frameworks, and network management principles to enable efficient, scalable, and programmable network infrastructures. The ability to design and implement automated workflows for network provisioning and management is critical.
3. Cisco Catalyst Center & DNA Capabilities: Proficiency with Cisco's Catalyst platform and its integration with Cisco DNA (Digital Network Architecture). This includes knowledge of how Cisco Catalyst switches and routers enable enterprise-grade networking solutions, along with the capabilities provided by Cisco DNA for intelligent, automated network management and optimization.
4. WLAN & Wi-Fi Technologies (Wi-Fi 4, 5, 6, & 7): A solid understanding of wireless networking standards (Wi-Fi 4, 5, 6, and upcoming Wi-Fi 7). Ability to design and deploy enterprise wireless solutions with an emphasis on performance, coverage, security, and management.
5. Cisco Switching & Routing (L2, L3, NATing): Familiarity with Ciscos fixed and modular switching and routing platforms, including Layer 2 (L2), Layer 3 (L3), and Network Address Translation (NAT) concepts. Expertise in deploying Cisco switches and routers for enterprise environments with a focus on high availability, scalability, and security.
6. Data Center Architecture & Cisco Nexus: A detailed understanding of modern data center architecture, including Cisco’s Nexus platform. The candidate should be capable of designing, deploying, and managing data center solutions using Cisco's advanced networking equipment and technologies, with an emphasis on high-performance and resilient network infrastructure.
7. Cisco Collaboration Solutions: Knowledge of Cisco’s collaboration suite and how these technologies (e.g., Cisco Webex) integrate into the network infrastructure. Ability to design and support collaboration solutions that optimize communication and productivity across the organization.
8. Cisco Catalyst 8K & 9K Platforms: Expertise in deploying and configuring Cisco’s high-end Catalyst 8K and 9K platforms, including understanding their capabilities in terms of scalability, performance, and security in modern enterprise networks.
9. Network Management Systems (NMS) & Monitoring Tools: Familiarity with network monitoring and visibility tools to provide proactive management of network health, performance, and security. This includes experience with platforms that monitor and analyze network traffic, detect issues, and optimize network operations.
10. Cisco Security Architecture: A comprehensive understanding of Cisco’s security portfolio, including Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW), Cisco Defense Orchestrator (CDF), Extended Detection and Response (XDR/EDR), Cisco Umbrella, Secure Endpoint (EP), Identity Services Engine (ISE), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), Email Security, and ThousandEyes analytics for comprehensive security across the enterprise network.
11. Cisco Meraki Full Stack & Dashboard Capabilities: Knowledge of the Cisco Meraki platform, including its cloud-managed networking capabilities. The candidate should be able to deploy and manage Meraki devices through its intuitive dashboard, providing an end-to-end solution for networking, security, and monitoring.

Job Summary:

We are looking for a highly skilled and experienced Cisco Presales Solution Architect to join our team. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of Cisco technologies and have a proven track record of designing secure, scalable IT infrastructure solutions. You will collaborate with customers to design tailored solutions that address their business and technical needs, supporting their digital transformation journey with Cisco solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Client Engagement & Solution Design: Collaborate with clients to understand business challenges and security needs, translating them into Cisco-based solutions.
• Pre-Sales Consulting: Provide expert guidance in the presales phase, including solution design, technical specifications, and roadmap development.
• Product Demonstrations & Presentations: Conduct product demos and presentations to showcase Cisco's portfolio and its value in addressing client goals.
• Proof of Concept (PoC): Lead PoC activities to validate Cisco solutions and give clients hands-on experience.
• Proposal Development: Create and present solution proposals, technical documentation, and architecture diagrams in line with Cisco best practices.
• Collaboration with Sales & Engineering Teams: Work closely with account managers, sales, and engineering teams to align efforts in meeting customer needs.
• Industry Expertise & Thought Leadership: Stay updated on trends in networking, security, cloud, and collaboration technologies, providing insights during client discussions.
• Technical Validation & Risk Mitigation: Ensure proposed solutions are scalable, secure, and address potential risks.