Senior SD-WAN Network Architect
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 27, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 27, 2026. Cognizant scores A on the Alion truth index.
About the role
As a Senior SD-WAN Network Architect, you will design and optimize secure SD-WAN solutions using Palo Alto Prisma SD-WAN and Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN, powering resilient, high-performance connectivity for large enterprise and automotive industry clients around the world. You'll own architecture decisions end-to-end from HLDs through deployment, and shape how a global network scales for years to come. You will be a valued member of the Cloud Infrastructure and Security team, working closely with security, network, and application stakeholders on work that has visible, lasting impact.
In this role, you will
- Lead the design and implementation of EMEA WAN network requirements, including circuit migration, Cisco SD-WAN, and Palo Alto Prisma Access SSE solutions.
- Own High-Level Designs (HLDs) and deployment plans end-to-end, coordinating change activities across stakeholders.
- Keep the network current and well-documented, with devices upgraded to the latest recommended versions and data accurate across all systems.
- Partner with cross-functional teams to evolve network standards without disrupting the business.
- Manage service-provider relationships across quotes, renewals, circuit delivery, upgrades, and SLA claims.
- Bring deep design expertise in Cisco SD-WAN Viptela (vSmart, vBond, vManage, vEdge) and Palo Alto Prisma Access SSE to solve real architecture challenges, not just tickets.
- Apply advanced routing knowledge, including BGP, OSPF, route-maps, and ACLs, to keep a large-scale network fast and reliable.
- Strengthen network security posture through VPNs, QoS, and close coordination with service providers across the circuit lifecycle.
- Design, deploy, and troubleshoot large-scale WAN solutions, and communicate the reasoning behind your decisions clearly to technical and business audiences alike.
Work model
At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various well-being programs. Based on this role's business requirements, this is an onsite position requiring 5 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in Dearborn, MI.
The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you're engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.
What you need to have to be considered
- 10+ years of experience in network design and with Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN (Viptela SD-WAN).
- CCNP or higher-level network knowledge, with a valid Cisco certification (CCNP Enterprise required).
- 3+ years of experience with Palo Alto Prisma Access, zScaler, or an equivalent SASE solution.
These will help you stand out
- A SASE or SSE certification.
- Experience architecting networks for global, multi-site enterprise or automotive clients.
- A track record of mentoring engineers or leading design reviews.
We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don't hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out.