Network Specialist

Job Title: Network Engineer (Level 2)

The Network Engineer (Level 2) is responsible for the daily operation, maintenance, and optimization of the organization’s networking infrastructure. This role sits between entry-level support and high-level architecture, requiring a balance of rapid troubleshooting skills and project-based implementation.

Core Responsibilities

• Infrastructure Management: Install, configure, and maintain network hardware, including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points.
• Performance Monitoring: Monitor network performance (availability, utilization, throughput, and latency) and test for vulnerabilities to ensure maximum uptime.
• Escalated Support: Act as the Tier 2 escalation point for complex network issues that Tier 1 technicians cannot resolve.
• Security & Compliance: Implement and manage security protocols, including VPNs, ACLs, and firewall rules, to protect data integrity and prevent unauthorized access.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate network diagrams, IP address schemes, and hardware inventory.
• Project Collaboration: Assist Level 3 Engineers in the design and rollout of network upgrades, migrations, and new site deployments.

Technical Skills & Requirements

• Routing & Switching: Strong understanding of protocols such as OSPF, BGP, EIGRP, and STP. Hands-on experience with VLANs and Trunking.
• Firewall Administration: Experience managing Cisco ASA/Firepower, Palo Alto, or Fortinet systems.
• Network Services: Proficiency in managing DHCP, DNS, and SNMP.
• Wireless Networking: Ability to deploy and troubleshoot enterprise-grade Wi-Fi solutions and controllers.
• Tools: Experience with monitoring software (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG, or Nagios) and packet analyzers like Wireshark.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience: 3–5 years of proven experience in a network-focused role.
• Certifications:
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is typically required.
• CompTIA Network+ or Security+.
• Progress toward CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) is a plus.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).

Soft Skills

• Problem Solving: A methodical approach to identifying root causes in complex environments.
• Adaptability: Ability to participate in an on-call rotation and handle high-pressure outages.
• Communication: Clear ability to explain technical issues to non-technical stakeholders and document processes for the team.