Senior Network Architect

About the position

As a Senior Network Architect at McDonald’s, you will be responsible for designing, planning, and implementing the overall restaurant network infrastructure strategy. You will work closely with IT leadership to ensure the network aligns with business objectives and supports critical operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the overall network architecture, including logical and physical diagrams.
• Define network standards, policies, and procedures.
• Research and evaluate emerging network technologies and trends to identify opportunities for innovation.
• Design and document network solutions for new projects and initiatives.
• Ensure that network designs adhere to industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with other IT teams to develop integrated solutions.
• Conduct network capacity planning to ensure adequate resources for future growth.
• Monitor network performance and identify potential bottlenecks.
• Develop strategies to optimize network utilization and efficiency.
• Manage relationships with network equipment vendors and service providers.
• Evaluate and select network hardware and software solutions.
• Manage the governance process with OEM providers to ensure timely updates for hardware and software elements.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to network engineers.
• Stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.
• Contribute to the development of the IT department's strategic roadmap.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in network architecture and design.
• Strong understanding of networking protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, VLANs, VPNs).
• Knowledge of network security best practices and experience with firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security tools.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Nice-to-haves

• Certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, or equivalent.
• Experience with network automation and scripting (Python, Ansible, etc.).
• Experience with cloud-based networking solutions (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Familiarity with network monitoring and management tools.
• Proven track record of successful network design and implementation projects.
• Knowledge of network integrations such as NAC, AD, DNS, and IPAM.

Benefits

• Health and welfare benefits
• 401(k) plan
• Adoption assistance program
• Educational assistance program
• Flexible ways of working
• Time off policies (including sick leave, parental leave, and vacation/PTO)
• Bonus eligibility based on individual and company performance
• Long term incentive eligibility for stock or other equity grants