Network Architect

The Network Architect serves as the senior technical authority for the design, evolution, and operational integrity of the institution’s enterprise network. This role is responsible for architecting scalable, resilient, and secure campus, data center, and wide-area networks that support the academic, research, and administrative missions of the university. In addition to hands-on architectural leadership, the Network Architect mentors the Network Engineers, ensuring reliable day-to-day network operations while advancing long-term strategic initiatives.

  • 522493
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Division of Info Tech TSC
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Regular)
  • Closing at: Nov 20 2026 - 23:55 CST
  • On-site

About This Role

The Network Architect serves as the senior technical authority for the design, evolution, and operational integrity of the institution’s enterprise network. This role is responsible for architecting scalable, resilient, and secure campus, data center, and wide-area networks that support the academic, research, and administrative missions of the university. In addition to hands-on architectural leadership, the Network Architect mentors the Network Engineers, ensuring reliable day-to-day network operations while advancing long-term strategic initiatives.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Requires a high school diploma (or equivalent) and nine years of relevant experience. Requirements may be met through a combination of work experience and education.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 5 years experience in enterprise network engineering and architecture in higher-ed or similarly complex networks utilizing Cisco and Aruba technologies.
  • Demonstrated expertise in routing, switching, DHCP, data center networking, and WAN technologies.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of network protocols; e.g. TCP/UDP, ICMP, SNMP, ARP, and routing protocols
  • Demonstrated experience leading network operations and mentoring technical staff.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
  • Experience in a higher education.
  • Advanced network certifications (e.g., CCNP, CCDP, CCIE, JNCIE, or equivalent).
  • Experience with hybrid or cloud-connected network architectures.
  • Demonstrated success in leading large-scale network modernization initiatives.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Three Professional References

Application Window

Applications close on: 11/20/26

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$100,800 - $120,000

 

 

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Compensation Study Implementation:

K-State is implementing a compensation study. As a result, some staff jobs may receive an updated title and/or pay grade while maintaining their core responsibilities. Candidates selected for an offer will receive additional information as it becomes available.

Work Authorization and Sponsorship: 

Employees must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment. International candidates who require employer-sponsored work authorization are welcome to apply. Eligibility for visa sponsorship depends on several factors, including but not limited to, the job’s occupational requirements, specific duties, wage level, the candidate’s qualifications (such as degree field) and available departmental resources. As a result, not all positions or applicants will be eligible for sponsorship.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

Relocation to Kansas: 

Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating from outside of Kansas you can visit the site to apply online for the program incentives. 

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.