Network Automation Engineer
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) is seeking a Network Automation Engineer to join the Energy Sciences Network (ESnet) Orchestration and Core Data team.
This person will build and support software that automates one of the world's leading research and education networks. The role combines Python software development with deep networking knowledge and hands-on work in Cisco NSO, YANG, XML, NEDs, and service modeling. The engineer will work alongside network and software specialists to develop, test, troubleshoot, document, and continuously improve automation that supports ESnet's infrastructure and scientific mission.
You will:
Develop, test, implement, and maintain network automation software using Cisco NSO, Python, YANG, and XML.
Build and maintain NSO services, service models, templates, YANG models, NEDs, and network device integrations.
Apply WAN/LAN networking concepts to develop, troubleshoot, and optimize automation solutions.
Analyze and resolve software and network automation issues.
Contribute to larger automation projects, code reviews, and technical support.
Develop and maintain technical documentation and operational procedures.
Recommend improvements to automation and software solutions.
Collaborate with network engineers and technical staff.
Review work, mentor junior developers, and share best practices.
Communicate project plans, progress, issues, and status to the team and supervisor.
We are looking for:
Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; 3 years of related experience with a Master’s degree; or equivalent relevant work experience.
Experience developing and maintaining Python software from technical specifications, including applying sound programming and software development practices to produce reliable, maintainable code.
Experience developing or maintaining network automation or network management software, including independently implementing well-defined software or network automation projects and developing, testing, troubleshooting, documenting, and supporting solutions throughout their lifecycle.
Hands-on experience with Cisco Network Services Orchestrator (NSO), including NSO services, service models, service templates, and the development or maintenance of network automation solutions.
Experience working with YANG data models and XML, including applying data modeling concepts in the development and maintenance of network automation solutions.
Experience working with Cisco NSO Network Element Drivers (NEDs) and network device integrations, including troubleshooting device integration and automation issues.
Experience applying WAN and LAN networking concepts to the development, troubleshooting, and optimization of network automation solutions.
Demonstrated ability to analyze complex software and network automation problems, evaluate alternative technical approaches, and recommend effective solutions.
Experience reviewing technical work, providing constructive feedback to less-experienced colleagues, and sharing software development and network automation best practices.
Ability to communicate technical information, project plans, progress, issues, and status clearly in written and verbal form, and to collaborate effectively with network engineers and other technical staff.
Experience using Git or comparable version-control systems in a collaborative software development environment.
Experience developing automated unit, integration, or system tests for software or network automation solutions.
Familiarity with software development lifecycle practices, including continuous integration and automated validation.
Experience working with APIs or programmatic interfaces used to integrate network-management systems and infrastructure platforms.
Additional information:
Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by November 2, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
Appointment type: This is a full-time career appointment, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
Salary range: The expected salary for this position is $134,664 - $164,604, which fits into the full salary of $119,712 - $202,020 depending upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.
Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
Work modality: Work may be performed on-site, hybrid, full-time telework. The primary location for this role is Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work must be performed within the United States. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).
Work authorization: Candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S. at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Union Represented: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
We’re here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
Why join Berkeley Lab?
We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:
Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans
Opportunities to grow in your career - check out our Tuition Assistance Program
A culture where you’ll belong - we are invested in our teams!
In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)
Pet insurance
Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer. For additional information, click here.