Lead Network Architect (m/f/d)

Fluence (Nasdaq: FLNC) is a global market leader delivering intelligent energy storage and optimization software for renewables and storage. Our solutions and operational services are helping to create a more resilient grid and unlock the full potential of renewable portfolios. With gigawatts of successful implementations across nearly 50 markets, we are transforming the way we power our world for a more sustainable future. For more information, please visit fluenceenergy.com.

Job Description:

About the Role

Fluence is seeking an experienced Principal Network Architect to design and standardize secure Operational Technology (OT) network architectures for Fluence Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

The role will work closely with product engineering, cybersecurity, controls engineering, and deployment teams to ensure reliable and secure networking for Fluence energy storage solutions deployed globally.

- Key Responsibilities

Network Architecture & Design

• Design and maintain enterprise and OT network architectures supporting Fluence BESS platforms and deployment sites.

• Define secure and resilient network architectures ensuring scalability, performance, and reliability.

• Develop network segmentation models and architectural standards aligned with industry best practices.

• Design solutions supporting site connectivity, remote access, and secure integration with cloud platforms.

OT / ICS Networking

• Design and implement network architectures supporting Industrial Control Systems (ICS) environments.

• Support networking for SCADA, PCS, BMS, and other industrial control systems.

• Implement network segmentation aligned with IEC 62443 zones and conduits architecture.

• Define secure connectivity models between OT networks and enterprise/cloud infrastructure.

Collaboration & Technical Leadership

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to network engineers.

• Participate in agile teams, managing architecture and engineering work in Jira.

• Collaborate with product engineering, cybersecurity, controls engineering, and deployment teams.

• Influence cross-functional architectural decisions across Fluence engineering teams.

Network Security & Resilience

• Design secure network architectures aligned with critical infrastructure security practices.

• Identify and communicate network security risks and vulnerabilities to stakeholders.

• Ensure network architectures support high availability and resiliency for production environments.

Vendor & Technology Management

• Evaluate and select network hardware, software, and service providers.

• Work with vendors to ensure solutions meet performance, scalability, and security requirements.

Performance & Reliability

• Define monitoring strategies to ensure network performance, availability, and reliability.

• Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis during network incidents affecting production or deployment environments.

Documentation

• Develop and maintain network architecture documentation, including HLDs, LLDs, standards, and operational procedures.

- Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Networking, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

• 12–16+ years of experience in network engineering and architecture.

• Proven experience as a Network Architect or Lead Network Engineer in enterprise, industrial, or critical infrastructure environments.

Technical Skills

• Deep expertise in network architecture, routing, switching, and infrastructure design.

• Strong experience with Cisco networking technologies, including:

  • Cisco routers

  • Cisco Nexus and Catalyst switches

  • Cisco firewall platforms (ASA / FTD / FMC)

• Experience with Juniper switching platforms (EX / QFX series) is highly desirable.

• Strong knowledge of routing and network protocols, including: BGP, OSPF, VLANs, VRF, NAT / Site-to-site and remote access VPN

OT / Industrial Networking Experience

• Experience designing networks for Industrial Control Systems (ICS) environments.

• Strong understanding of SCADA networking and industrial control architectures.

• Experience implementing segmentation aligned with IEC 62443 zones and conduits.

• Experience supporting energy systems, utilities, or other critical infrastructure environments.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) or grid infrastructure.

• Experience with AWS networking or hybrid cloud architectures.

• Familiarity with Linux networking and diagnostics.

• Experience with network automation tools such as Ansible.

• Proficiency in Python or shell scripting is a plus.

Certifications

Preferred certifications include:

• Cisco CCNP / CCIE

• Juniper JNCIP / JNCIE

• Other relevant networking or security certifications.

Our Culture

At Fluence, our culture is the foundation that drives our ambitious growth strategy and fuels our mission to transform the future of energy. Our core cultural pillars empower us to innovate, collaborate, and lead with purpose, ensuring we continue to deliver unparalleled value to our customers and the world.

Unleash Voices

We believe every voice matters. We encourage openness, active listening, and decisive action to create a culture where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to our success. We foster an environment where diverse perspectives are heard and valued, driving innovation and progress.

Customer Fluent

Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We’re committed to delivering exceptional value that exceeds expectations by understanding our customers' needs and adapting swiftly to meet them. Our deep focus on customer satisfaction drives us to continuously improve and innovate.

Infinite Impact

We are committed to creating the impossible. We push boundaries to deliver sustainable, game-changing solutions that shape a brighter, more energy-efficient future for all. Our team is passionate about making a lasting impact that will resonate for generations to come.

All In

We are all in for growth. Our teams are relentlessly focused on identifying and seizing opportunities that propel us forward. We embrace an ownership mindset, pushing ourselves and each other to accelerate progress and create lasting success.