Job Summary:
A Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing an organizations computer networks, including local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). They ensure the network infrastructure is secure, efficient, and reliable to support the organizations communication and data transfer needs.
Responsibilities:
- Network Design: Plan, design, and implement network infrastructure, considering the organizations requirements, scalability, and security needs.
- Configuration: Configure and maintain network equipment such as routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers to ensure optimal network performance.
- Network Security: Implement security measures to protect the network from cyber threats and unauthorized access. This includes firewall management, intrusion detection systems, and VPN setup.
- Network Monitoring: Continuously monitor network performance and troubleshoot issues as they arise, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal network operation.
- Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve network issues, including connectivity problems, performance degradation, and hardware or software malfunctions.
- Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of network configurations, policies, and procedures for reference and future planning.
- Capacity Planning: Evaluate network capacity and performance to anticipate future needs and make recommendations for network expansion or upgrades.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including system administrators and security professionals, to ensure network compatibility and alignment with organizational goals.
- Network Optimization: Continuously seek opportunities to optimize network performance and efficiency, such as load balancing, traffic management, and protocol optimization.
- Vendor Management: Work with network equipment vendors to procure hardware and software, negotiate contracts, and stay informed about product updates.
Skills Requirements:
Networking Expertise:
- In-depth knowledge of network protocols, technologies, and architectures, including TCP/IP, routing, switching, VLANs, VPNs, and subnetting.
- Familiarity with network hardware, such as routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers.
Network Security:
- Strong understanding of network security principles, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and encryption.
- Proficiency in managing security policies and implementing security best practices.
Network Design and Architecture:
- Ability to design and implement network solutions that meet the organizations requirements and scalability needs.
- Knowledge of network topologies and the ability to optimize network design for performance and redundancy.
Troubleshooting and Problem Solving:
- Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills to identify and resolve network issues quickly.
- Familiarity with network monitoring and management tools.
Network Performance Optimization:
- Capacity planning to ensure the network can handle current and future traffic loads efficiently.
- Optimization of network performance through QoS (Quality of Service) and traffic shaping.
Vendor and Technology Management:
- Experience in evaluating and selecting network hardware and software vendors.
- Knowledge of emerging networking technologies and trends.
Project Management:
- Proficiency in project management methodologies to plan, execute, and oversee network-related projects.
- Ability to manage budgets, timelines, and resources effectively.
Team Leadership:
- Strong leadership and management skills to lead and develop a network services team.
- Effective communication and collaboration with team members and other departments.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintaining accurate network documentation, including network diagrams, configurations, and asset inventories.
- Preparing regular reports on network performance, security, and incident response.
Compliance and Regulations:
- Understanding of network-related compliance requirements and regulations, such as GDPR, HIPAA, or industry-specific standards.
- Ensuring network services align with these requirements.
Communication Skills:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
- Ability to work with cross-functional teams and vendors.
Adaptability:
- The network landscape is continually evolving. A Network Services Manager should stay updated on emerging technologies and adapt to changes in the field.
Certifications:
- Relevant certifications can demonstrate your expertise, such as Cisco CCNA/CCNP, CompTIA Network+, or other vendor-specific and industry-recognized certifications.
Customer Service:
- An ability to provide excellent customer service to internal users, addressing their network-related needs and concerns promptly.
Time Management:
- Effective time management to handle multiple tasks, prioritize critical issues, and meet deadlines.
Education Requirements:
Bachelors degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.- Professional certifications such as Cisco CCNA, CCNP, or equivalent.- Strong knowledge of network protocols, architectures, and technologies.- Proficiency in network monitoring and diagnostic tools.- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.- Strong communication skills for interacting with team members and stakeholders.- Attention to detail and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.- Knowledge of security best practices and protocols.- Ability to adapt to new technologies and stay current with industry trends.
Physical Requirements:
Occasionally exert up to 10 lbs. of force to push, pull, lift or otherwise move objects. Have visual acuity to perform activities such as preparing and analyzing data; and/or viewing a computer terminal. Type and/or sit for extended periods of time. Consistent attendance is an essential function of the job.
