Network Engineer

Toptal is an exclusive network of the world’s top talent in business, design, and technology, connecting exceptional professionals with leading companies worldwide. We offer freelance opportunities on an independent contractor basis.We are currently seeking a highly skilled Network Engineer for one of our clients—a leading global player in the telecommunications industry. In this role, you will provide technical support for an extensive lab relocation project, ensuring seamless implementation, configuration, and debugging of IP networks and associated hardware on-site in Ulm, Germany.Responsibilities:Implementation, configuration, and debugging of IP network systemsConfigure routers (Cisco/ION), switches (Dell/Cisco/ION), and firewalls (Fortinet)Advanced troubleshooting for protocols including TCP/IP (IPv4 & IPv6), BGP, RIP, OSPF, MPLS (LDP, VPNv4, VPNv6)Deployment of secure firewall solutions and dynamic IPsec VPN setupsUtilize monitoring tools such as PRTG and Nagios to ensure infrastructure reliabilityRequirements:CCNA certification or higherProfessional or academic degree in IT or Computer ScienceStrong hands-on experience with IP routing, switching, VLANs, trunking, and spanning treeExpertise in advanced network protocols: BGP, OSPF, RIP, MPLSProven experience with secure firewall and VPN deploymentsFamiliarity with network monitoring tools (PRTG, Nagios)English proficiency and basic GermanKey Details:Type: ContractLocation: On-site in Ulm, GermanySchedule: Up to 35 hours/week, Monday–Friday between 08:00–18:00Duration: July 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025 (with potential for extension)If this opportunity aligns with your skills and interests, we encourage you to apply and learn more about working with Toptal.