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. An…