Senior Technical Lead (Project Manager / Network Engineer III)

Location: Missoula, MT (Onsite with Potential Hybrid Flexibility)
Schedule: Part-Time | 25-30 Hours per Week (Approximately 6 Hours per Day)
Pay Range: $24.00-$47.00 per Hour

Senior Technical Lead (Project Manager / Network Engineer III)

Express Employment Professionals is seeking an experienced Senior Technical Lead (Project Manager / Network Engineer III) to support a critical network systems contract in Missoula. This position is ideal for a seasoned IT professional with a strong background in both project management and advanced network engineering who is looking to play a key leadership role in supporting and improving complex technology operations.

As the primary technical lead and contract point of contact, you will provide strategic guidance, oversee network infrastructure, support security and compliance initiatives, and serve as a trusted advisor to organizational leadership. This role offers the opportunity to influence technology direction while remaining hands-on with advanced network administration and Tier III support.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for the contract and provide oversight and guidance to supporting team members
• Partner with leadership to develop technology strategies, infrastructure plans, and system improvement initiatives
• Prepare cost estimates and assist with budgeting, forecasting, and technology procurement planning
• Support security and compliance efforts, including ATO and POA&M requirements
• Perform advanced Tier III network troubleshooting, analysis, design, and support
• Provide day-to-day administration of network infrastructure and systems
• Monitor network performance and recommend solutions to improve security, reliability, and efficiency
• Identify operational and technical risks and communicate mitigation strategies to stakeholders
• Respond to critical incidents and provide after-hours support when necessary
• Assist with planning and implementation of infrastructure upgrades and technology projects

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in both IT project management and network engineering
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to operate independently and make sound technical decisions
• Experience leading complex technical initiatives and serving as a senior technical resource
• Proven ability to assess and communicate risks, challenges, and recommendations effectively
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of accuracy, professionalism, and accountability
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities

Preferred Certifications

• Cisco Certified Field Technician (CCFT)
• CompTIA Security+
• CompTIA Network+
• Additional networking, cybersecurity, or project management certifications are a plus

Requirements

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a USDA LincPass (Government Identification Badge)
• Must be able to work primarily onsite in Missoula, MT
• Must be available to provide after-hours and emergency support as needed

Why Join This Opportunity?

This role offers a unique opportunity to combine technical leadership, project management, network engineering, and strategic planning within a single position. You'll work directly with leadership to support mission-critical technology operations while helping shape future infrastructure and security initiatives.