Cisco ACI & Data Center Architect

Cisco ACI & Data Center Architect Location : St. This role focuses on architecting high-performance, secure, and automated networking environments, supporting both greenfield and brownfield implementations. Key Responsibilities :

• Lead end-to-end Cisco ACI fabric implementations , including APIC, leaf-spine, EPGs, L3Out, and multi-site environments.
• Design underlay and overlay networks using VXLAN BGP EVPN , MPLS/SR MPLS , and robust BGP architectures .
• Integrate ACI with existing Cisco Routing & Switching platforms (Nexus 9K/7K/5K, NX-OS).
• Architect and deploy Data Center Interconnect (DCI) solutions using VXLAN EVPN Multi-Site , MPLS L3VPN , and VRF-Lite .
• Configure border leaf/PE roles , optimize routing paths, and ensure performance at scale.
• Automate ACI and DC infrastructure provisioning via Python, Ansible, or Terraform .
• Develop HLD/LLD documentation , conduct design reviews, and lead architectural discussions with stakeholders .
• Monitor and troubleshoot ACI and NX-OS environments , ensuring HA, scalability, and security .

Required Experience & Skills :

• 10+ years of experience in Enterprise Networking , including at least 5 years hands-on with Cisco ACI .
• Deep knowledge of Cisco R&S :
  • BGP (iBGP/eBGP, EVPN)
  • OSPF
  • MPLS / Segment Routing MPLS
  • VXLAN overlays
• Hands-on expertise with Cisco Nexus platforms (N9K, N7K, N5K) and NX-OS .
• Proven ability to design and manage Data Center Transport Integration including MPLS L3VPN and EVPN Multi-Site DCI .
• Experience in infrastructure automation : Python, Ansible, Terraform.
• Strong leadership, documentation, communication, and troubleshooting capabilities.

Preferred Qualifications :

• CCNP or CCIE in Data Center or Routing & Switching .
• Experience with:
  • Cisco UCS , DCNM , Intersight
  • Hybrid Cloud integrations (AWS, Azure)
• Prior experience in consulting or customer-facing architectural roles .

Candidate Submission Questions (Must Answer):

1. Do you have a degree in Computer Science or related field?
2. How many years of professional experience do you have?
3. How many years of experience do you have in Enterprise Networking?
4. How many years of hands-on experience do you have in Cisco ACI?
5. How many years of experience do you have in Cisco R&S: BGP (iBGP/eBGP, EVPN), OSPF, MPLS/SR MPLS, VXLAN overlays (please explain if missing or weak in any skill)?
6. How many years of experience do you have in Cisco Nexus switching platforms (9K/7K/5K) and NX-OS?
7. How many years experience do you have with Public Cloud Landing Zone architecture and concepts (please explain if missing or weak in any skill)?
8. How many years experience do you have with DC transport integration, including MPLS L3VPN and EVPN Multi-Site DCI?
9. How many years experience do you have using Python, Ansible, Terraform?
10. Do you have any CCNP or CCIE Data Center / R&S certifications?
11. Are you willing to work in the office in St. Louis 1 2 days per week?
12. Is there anything else that you would like to tell the client as to why you are a good fit for this position?