Location: Sacramento, CA (remote is fine but needs to start in Sacramento for a few week and then return during critical milestones and cutover period) - LOCAL ONLY
ALSO THEY NEED GAMING LISCENSE TO GO ONSITE
Network Architect
Role Overview
Hard Rock is seeking a senior‑level Network Architect to lead the design and execution of network infrastructure for a new Sacramento casino project. This role will support a “mini‑greenfield” environment, standing up a new, secure, and resilient network while managing integration and cutover from an existing corporate ecosystem.
This is a true architecture role—ideal for a hands‑on architect who can independently assess a complex environment, define best‑practice architecture, identify risks, and lead cutover planning without being directed step‑by‑step.
Key Responsibilities
Network Architecture & Design
Lead end‑to‑end network architecture design for a new casino environment, including:
Firewalls
Core networking
VMware infrastructure
Active Directory and domain services
DNS, DHCP, time services
Backup and recovery
Security integrations
Design an environment that can operate stand‑alone, while integrating with corporate systems as needed.
Apply industry best practices without relying on prescriptive direction.
Environment Assessment & Planning
Conduct an initial onsite assessment of the property, including:
MDFs and IDFs
Racks, cabling, and physical infrastructure
Evaluate the current state and define the target‑state architecture.
Produce project plans, task lists, and sequencing that clearly outline the work required.
Cutover & Risk Management
Lead or heavily support network cutover activities, ensuring continuity of critical services.
Identify dependencies, risks, and critical failure points early and propose mitigation strategies.
Be available onsite during key transition phases to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
Collaboration & Execution
Partner closely with internal SMEs, vendors, and third‑party providers.
Clearly articulate technical decisions to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
Validate designs and execution plans through direct architectural discussions (no lengthy interview cycles or unnecessary hand‑offs).
Required Experience & Qualifications
Must‑Have
Senior‑level experience as a Network Architect (not just a Network Engineer).
Proven experience with:
Greenfield builds, divestitures, acquisitions, or large‑scale environment separations
Designing networks from the ground up
Leading architectural decisions independently
Strong understanding of:
Core networking concepts
Firewall architecture
VMware environments
Microsoft ecosystem (including O365 and Active Directory)
Ability to work onsite initially and during cutovers.
