Network Administrator | On-site | Wichita, KS | Long-term Opportunity

Optomi in partnership with a leading IT Consulting company is seeking a Network Administrator with experience in Routing, Switching and WLAN to join their team. The Network Admin will have expertise in Cisco and Aruba infrastructure, routing and switching, and wireless network support. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with DNAC/NDFC, network automation, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Strong knowledge of security, redundancy, and disaster recovery is essential, along with the ability to plan upgrades and ensure reliable, high-performance connectivity across a multi-site environment.

Experience of the right candidate:

• Bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent required from an accredited institution. Will also consider three years of progressive experience in the specialty in lieu of every year of education.
• At least 6+ years of experience in Information Technology.
• At least 3 years of experience in Cisco Routing/Switching and WLAN.
• ITIL Foundation certification or similar IT service management certification.
• Hands-on expertise with Cisco Core Routers, Distribution, and Access Layer switches in multi-site environments.
• Proficiency in routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP) and advanced switching technologies, including 802.1X authentication and network hardening.
• Strong knowledge of Aruba and Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers (WLCs) and Access Points (APs), with experience in Wi-Fi optimization and secure wireless deployment.
• Familiarity with Cisco Digital Network Architecture Center (DNAC) and Cisco Nexus Dashboard Fabric Controller (NDFC), including automation, policy-based management, and fabric provisioning.
• Skilled in proactive network monitoring, performance tuning, and troubleshooting using enterprise monitoring tools.
• Experience planning and executing network upgrades, firmware/patch management, and system maintenance with minimal downtime.

Responsibilities of the right candidate:

Network Infrastructure Administration

• Administer and support, ensuring optimal configuration, performance, and uptime of networking devices including Cisco and Aruba switches, routers, and wireless infrastructure.
• Support a mixed wireless environment consisting of Aruba and Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers (WLCs) and Access Points (APs).

Network Monitoring and Troubleshooting

• Proactively monitor network performance, availability, and traffic patterns to ensure a seamless and efficient network environment.
• Troubleshoot network issues including connectivity problems, slow performance, and hardware failures.
• Configure, deploy, and manage Cisco Core Routers, Distribution Switches, and End-Access Switches in a multi-site environment.

Wireless Network Support

• Support, configure, and troubleshoot Aruba and Cisco Wireless Controllers and APs to ensure reliable wireless connectivity.
• Optimize Wi-Fi performance through AP placement, channel planning, and security settings.
• Assist with installation, configuration, and maintenance of wireless networks, ensuring secure and efficient access.

Switching and Routing Proficiency

• Must be proficient in BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP routing protocols.
• Must be proficient in all switching technologies including 802.1X authentication and access controls/hardening.

Cisco DNAC and NDFC Administration

• Working and administrative knowledge of Cisco Digital Network Architecture Center (DNAC) and Cisco Nexus Dashboard Fabric Controller (NDFC) environments.
• Experience with network automation, policy-based management, and fabric provisioning using DNAC and NDFC.

Maintenance and Upgrades

• Plan and execute network upgrades, patches, and firmware updates for Cisco switches, routers, and wireless controllers.
• Coordinate with IT teams to ensure minimal downtime during maintenance windows.
• Stay current with Cisco software and firmware updates and apply security patches promptly.

Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity

• Implement network redundancy, failover, and recovery procedures to ensure availability.
• Assist in developing and testing disaster recovery plans and restoration procedures.
• Participate in business continuity exercises to support organizational recovery goals.