Network Engineer

Roles

PURPOSE
The Network Engineer is responsible for all aspects of network communications in the enterprise including workstations, servers, local area networks, remote enterprise installations, problem solving, vendor interfacing, technical training, and network security. The Network Administrator must be familiar with LAN and WAN topologies and software including routers, firewalls, switches, wireless access points and servers.

CHALLENGE
The Network Engineer will be responsible for a complex, state-of-the-art network that will rapidly change to support enterprise growth and development of new business opportunities. The specialist is challenged with providing an environment that is reliable, flexible, and cost effective.

Responsibilities

POSITION FUNCTIONS

1. Designs and manages the enterprise network infrastructure including wide area and local area networks.
2. Provides input to management for network infrastructure design, procurement of network equipment and supplies.
3. Plans and deploys equipment installations and relocation as required to support the business needs of the enterprise.
4. Monitors and tunes the enterprise network infrastructure for optimal performance.
5. Develops a strategy for scheduled code audits and relevant updates for all network infrastructure equipment (routers, firewalls, switches, hubs, etc.).
6. Facilitates the scheduling of network outages with respect to the needs of all affected network end-users.
7. Acts as the primary interface with equipment vendors for resolving problems.
8. Establishes a growth plan for the network infrastructure to ensure the best quality service in an environment.
9. Provides planning and technical support for enterprise installations.
10. Recognizes and identifies potential areas where existing policies and procedures require change, or where new ones need to be developed, especially regarding future business expansion.
11. Fulfills departmental requirements in terms of providing work coverage and administrative notification during periods of personnel illness, vacation, or education.

AUTHORITY

1. Schedule and prioritize network activities.

2. Evaluate vendors for data communication.

3. Design the enterprise network infrastructure and integrate it with other enterprise activities.

4. Develop and document network infrastructure-related policies and procedures including network security.

5. Work with all departments to ensure that their data communication requirements are satisfied.

6. Participate in telecommunication-related task force whenever necessary.

7. Work with architects, building landlords, contractors, telephony companies, external Information Technology organizations, and equipment vendors.

CONTACTS

1. Reports to the Associate Director, Technical and Infrastructure Services.

2. Communicates regularly with Information Technology staff members.

3. Communicates with other University staff and students on an as needed basis.

4. Contact outside of Northwood University is required with technology suppliers.

CAREER LADDER

This position could lead into a management position such as Associate Director, Technical and Infrastructure Services.

Qualifications

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

BS or BA degree in computer science, MIS, business administration or related area.

3-5 years experience with wide and local area networks including experience with common-carrier data networks.

Experience with Cisco/Fortinet and switching plus dynamic routing protocols including OSPF, BGP, VLAN, VPN or the ability to learn quickly

Experience with automation and scripting tools.

Experience with cloud technologies such as AWS, Azure etc.

Ability to communicate effectively, and to interface with equipment vendors.

Ability to efficiently manage time and multi-task in a rapidly-changing network infrastructure environment.

Knowledge at the expert level of Ethernet networks, Internet networks, connections, wiring and cabling, and network management.

Expectations

Northwood University has an institutional philosophy which emphasizes free enterprise in a context of limited government and individual responsibility. The ideal candidate will have a strong attraction to the mission and core values of Northwood University. Applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the University’s outcomes at www.northwood.edu/aboutus/ .