Principal Network Engineer

At H&P, our people are our strength.

Since 1920, Helmerich and Payne has been the industry’s most trusted partner in drilling productivity and reliability. As the world changes, so does our approach. We are changing the landscape of drilling by using cutting-edge rig technologies and drilling solutions to build upon a century of success, all while continuing to deliver better outcomes for our customers. 

At H&P, our people are our strength. We strive to continually lead with our Core Values that enable employees to develop on their H&P Journey. We believe that doing the right thing means creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that empowers our people to bring their authentic selves to work every day. 

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Hear directly from our employees, and leaders about their unique journeys at Helmerich and Payne. 

At a Glance:

We are seeking a seasoned Principal Network Engineer with strong Cisco networking experience to lead enterprise network operations, design, implementation, and strategy. This role ensures seamless LAN/WAN operations, aligns with architectural and security standards, drives innovation, and mentors support teams to maintain a robust, scalable network. The position is both engineering and operational support at the highest level in the networking team.

Location: Tulsa, OK or Dallas, TX
Work Type: Hybrid

#LI-Hybrid

What you will do:

• Network Design & Implementation: Lead the end-to-end design and deployment of enterprise networking solutions, primarily on Cisco (ACI and Nexus) and Meraki hardware, ensuring compliance with security and architectural standards.

• Technical Leadership & Mentorship: Serve as a mentor and technical expert for internal operational support teams and external partner resources, promoting knowledge-sharing and skill development.

• Performance Optimization: Monitor and analyze network performance, providing strategic recommendations for design, configuration, and capacity improvements to ensure optimal operation and uptime.

• IP & DHCP Management: Establish, document, and maintain robust IP schemes and DHCP scopes to support the enterprise network’s scalability and reliability.

• Security Integration: Collaborate with the Security Operations team to design and implement cutting-edge network security measures, including firewall configurations, access controls, and segmentation strategies.

• Escalation & Troubleshooting: Act as the senior escalation point for complex network incidents, providing advanced troubleshooting expertise and ensuring timely resolution.

• Strategic Collaboration: Partner with Architecture, Security, and IT leadership to align network infrastructure with organizational goals, emerging technologies, and industry trends.

• WAN/LAN Vendor and Carrier Relationships: Act as a key H&P liaison with vendors and carriers to optimize our networks, costs, and maintain partner relationships.

What you need:

• Experience:

  • 10+ years of Cisco Networking experience in network/telecommunications engineering, with a proven track record of success in enterprise environments.

  • 5+ years of experience in network architecture and design, including large-scale global networks.

• Technical Expertise:

  • Cisco CCNP or CCIE required.

  • Advanced proficiency in Cisco networking technologies, including ACI, Nexus, routers, switches, wireless, and voice.

  • In-depth knowledge of routing protocols such as BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP, and advanced understanding of LAN/WAN infrastructure protocols.

  • Hands-on experience with wireless network technologies and controllers, including Aruba and Cisco solutions.

  • Expertise in firewall configuration and security protocols, with experience in Cisco ASA and Palo Alto platforms.

• Skills & Knowledge:

  • Thorough understanding of advanced switching, routing, and network security technologies.

  • Proficiency in network management tools and applications to ensure system reliability and performance.

  • Strong ability to adapt to evolving technologies and drive forward-thinking strategies.

  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to convey technical concepts to diverse audiences.

  • Strategic mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

Not a must, but a plus:

• CCIE in Routing/Switch highly preferred.

• Experience with automation and scripting for network management (e.g., Python, Ansible).

• Knowledge of SD-WAN technologies and deployment strategies.

• Familiarity with cloud networking solutions (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud).

What we offer:

At H&P, our commitment to our people is at the forefront, and that includes benefits that provide employees a sense of health and financial security. We know that life continues outside of employment and actively caring of our people is our priority. Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance 

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance 

• Flexible Spending or Health Savings Accounts

• 401k match 

• Paid Leave Plans

• Parental & Adoption Benefits

• Disability Coverage

• Employee Assistance Program 

• Educational Assistance 

• Learning & Development Opportunities

• Flex-scheduling available for qualifying positions to achieve work-life integration

H&P is committed to employing a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.

For more information on benefits and job opportunities, please visit Careers | Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!