Network Data Engineer

Central Strategies is seeking a skilled Network Data Engineer with expertise in Kafka and the Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN). The candidate will play a critical role in designing, building, and maintaining robust data pipelines, ensuring near real-time data flow, and enabling downstream data analytics teams. This is a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge data architecture, streaming technologies, and advanced analytics solutions that drive key business decisions. This role will be remotely working Eastern Standard Time core hours.

• Design and architect secure data transport flows across DoDIN networks, including BCAPs, DISA gateways, authorization boundaries, and cross-domain solutions.
• Engineer data streaming integrations between on-premises systems, mission partner networks, and cloud-based analytic platforms (Databricks) using Kafka technologies (Confluent, MSK, or Red Panda).
• Collaborate with DoD enterprise networking teams, DISA, and external mission partners to ensure compliant, resilient, and performant network connectivity supporting real-time data delivery.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve network bottlenecks and firewall issues that impact data flow or pipeline performance.
• Stay current with DoD network modernization efforts (e.g., DISA BCAP modernization, JIE, Zero Trust initiatives) and assess impacts on data exchange architecture.

Requirements

• Clearance: Active or eligible for Public Trust.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Network Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: 3+ years in network engineering or data transport roles supporting DoD, DISA, or federal mission partner environments.
• Strong understanding of DoDIN architecture, including BCAPs, DISN Gateways, Cross-Domain Solutions (CDS), firewalls, and routing protocols.
• Proven experience building and maintaining Kafka-based streaming architectures (Confluent, MSK, or Redpanda) for high-throughput, secure data flows.
• Experience integrating with Databricks or other cloud-based analytic environments across DoD or hybrid cloud boundaries.

Strong scripting or automation skills for network diagnostics and integration tasks.   To apply, email: apply@centralstrategies.com