Senior SDN Specialist

We are seeking a skilled and passionate mid-to-senior SDN Specialist to join our team in Porto. The role focuses on the design, build, and implementation of SDN core network fabrics, supporting a strategic data center transformation program. The SDN Specialist will be responsible for delivering greenfield Arista SDM fabrics across multiple data center environments, ensuring high availability, resilience, automation readiness, and alignment with organization’s zoning and security models. This role plays a key part in the transition towards software-defined, automated, and scalable network infrastructures. The ideal candidate should have several years of real-world experience in Software Defined Network projects implementation, operations and be comfortable working in a fast-paced, multi-vendor environment. Responsibilities The role focuses on the design, build, and operation of Data Center Software-Defined networks, supporting strategic data center transformation programs. Exposure to Arista EOS and SDN architecture is considered a strong advantage in the context of future evolution and migration initiatives. Deliver greenfield fabric builds, ensuring: - Maximum data center independence and resilience - Support for stretched Layer 2 / Layer 3 connectivity between sites - Compliance with DCs zoning model and detailed design documentation Configure and validate VXLAN / EVPN-based network architectures using Arista switching platforms. Implement automation-ready network infrastructures using: - CI/CD pipelines - Terraform - Arista CloudVision (CVP) - Arista Validated Designs (AVD) - Integrate network deployments into approved automation and tooling frameworks. Promote Infrastructure as Code (IaC) and GitOps best practices within the network domain. Perform end-to-end integration, validation, and performance testing of the new core network fabrics. Ensure operational readiness prior to handover to operations and support teams. Produce and maintain detailed technical documentation, diagrams, and operational runbooks. Support the migration phase from legacy technologies, providing technical expertise during coexistence periods. Contribute Arista SDN expertise while leveraging Cisco ACI / Nexus knowledge to ensure smooth transition and risk mitigation. Participate in design reviews, technical workshops, and stakeholder discussions. Collaborate on infrastructure and network and security projects across EMEA. Document technical configurations, procedures, and incident reports. Work with clients and Accenture teams in a multi-disciplined team structure, implementing cloud native and third-party cloud/infra/app security solutions across all the major cloud service providers. Contribute to the project with daily support which can include understanding challenges, defining requirements, and/or performing hands-on technology configuration. Qualifications Core Network & SDN Implementation Experienced SDN engineers at senior or strong consultant level, depending on hands-on experience with Cisco ACI or Arista SDN fabrics and automation. Strong hands-on experience with Cisco ACI, including: ACI fabric design and implementation Policy model (EPGs, contracts, VRFs, BD) Multi-pod and/or multi-site architecture Exposure to Arista EOS and Arista SDN architectures (SDM, VXLAN/EVPN). Experience with Arista CloudVision (CVP) and/or Arista Validated Designs (AVD) is a plus, especially in transformation or migration contexts. Strong hands-on experience with routing and switching technologies, including: BGP, OSPF, VRF, ECMP, VXLAN / EVPN. Valued experience in Arista data center solutions, including: Arista EOS Arista SDM-based fabric architecture Arista CloudVision (CVP) Arista Validated Designs (AVD) Experience delivering large-scale data center fabric builds, preferably in regulated or mission-critical environments. Solid understanding of network automation and DevOps pipelines. Hands-on contribution to network automation pipelines, including writing, reviewing, and maintaining Terraform deployments. Solid understanding of network protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, VRF, MPLS, GRE, IPsec). Knowledge of data center security and segmentation models. Programming and automation skills (Python, Ansible, YAML). Ability to maintain accurate documentation (network diagrams, documentation, change logs). Soft Skills Strong analytical skills to diagnose complex issues and propose effective solutions. Proactive in identifying risks and opportunities for improvement. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English (French and/or Dutch is a plus). Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Experience working in cross-functional teams and supporting colleagues during incidents and projects. Quick to learn new technologies and adapt to evolving security landscapes. Open to feedback and continuous improvement. Take responsibility for assigned tasks and drive them to completion with minimal supervision. Maintains high standards of quality and follows established processes. Focused on delivering reliable and secure services to internal and external customers. Responsive and supportive during critical incidents and planned changes. Legal : Must own a valid work permit or EU/Schengen Space Nationality to legally work in Portugal. Preferred Qualifications Certifications: Arista ACE (or equivalent) Cisco CCNP or CCIE Data Center Additional Information Flexibility for occasional travel within Europe for key project deliveries and client meetings (typically quarterly). About Accenture Accenture is a leading global professional services company that helps the world’s leading businesses, governments and other organizations build their digital core, optimize their operations, accelerate revenue growth and enhance citizen services—creating tangible value at speed and scale. We are a talent- and innovation-led company with approximately 791,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Technology is at the core of change today, and we are one of the world’s leaders in helping drive that change, with strong ecosystem relationships. We combine our strength in technology and leadership in cloud, data and AI with unmatched industry experience, functional expertise and global delivery capability. 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