cFocus Software is seeking a
Network Engineer with 8+ years of experience to support, implement, test, and maintain the local and wide area networks (LAN/WAN) for the organization. The ideal candidate will assist in managing network server environments, ensuring network security, backing up systems, and enforcing security policies. Additionally, the Network Engineer will support network infrastructure and provide guidance on network applications. The position will also require performing on-call duties as needed to support DHS operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Network Support and Implementation:
- Support and maintain the LAN and WAN environments, ensuring seamless and reliable communication across all systems.
- Implement, configure, and test network hardware, such as routers, switches, firewalls, and other network devices to support efficient operations.
- Utilize third-party network management tools to monitor, analyze, and optimize network performance and security.
- Assist in the installation and setup of network servers, ensuring they are operational and effectively supporting departmental needs.
- Network Security and Maintenance:
- Ensure network security systems are in place and functioning, including firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and secure network configurations.
- Enforce network security policies and best practices to safeguard organizational data and prevent unauthorized access.
- Perform regular backups of network systems and ensure backup systems are functioning correctly to prevent data loss.
- Implement and enforce robust disaster recovery strategies for network components to ensure business continuity in the event of a failure.
- Network Performance and Troubleshooting:
- Monitor the network to ensure availability and optimal performance, proactively identifying and addressing any issues or disruptions.
- Perform troubleshooting and diagnostics for network issues, escalating issues when necessary, and working closely with other technical teams to resolve problems.
- Conduct routine maintenance and system updates, including patch management, network optimizations, and hardware upgrades.
- Application and System Integration:
- Assist in the implementation of network application programs and coordinate their integration with existing systems.
- Work with application development and other technical teams to ensure proper functioning and performance of network-based applications.
- Ensure network configurations align with application requirements, optimizing data flow and security across systems.
- On-Call and Incident Response:
- Provide on-call support for network-related issues and emergencies, ensuring prompt resolution to minimize downtime.
- Respond to network outages, security breaches, or other urgent network problems, providing timely solutions in high-pressure environments.
- Collaborate with other teams to perform incident response activities and resolve network security incidents in a systematic manner.
- Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain up-to-date documentation for network configurations, changes, and maintenance procedures to ensure smooth operations.
- Prepare and generate reports on network performance, uptime, and security status for DHS management and stakeholders.
- Develop, update, and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for network management and maintenance.
Qualifications:
- Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Network Engineering, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
- Experience:
- 8+ years of hands-on experience as a Network Engineer, with a proven track record of managing and maintaining LAN/WAN infrastructures.
- Solid experience implementing, configuring, testing, and troubleshooting network hardware and server environments.
- Demonstrated ability to enforce network security protocols and ensure secure network environments.
- Strong background in network performance optimization, fault tolerance, and disaster recovery planning.
- Experience supporting network applications and systems integration, ensuring network performance is aligned with application needs.
- Skills and Competencies:
- In-depth knowledge of network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, BGP, OSPF), networking hardware, and operating systems (e.g., Windows Server, Linux).
- Familiarity with network management tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Nagios, Wireshark, PRTG) for performance monitoring and issue resolution.
- Strong understanding of network security practices, including firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, and network access control.
- Ability to troubleshoot network issues, optimize performance, and provide timely resolutions under pressure.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills to work with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
- Certifications (Preferred):
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or higher certification.
- CompTIA Network+ certification.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or other network security certifications.
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) or similar certifications.
Security Clearance:
Due to the sensitive nature of this role, candidates must possess or be able to obtain the required security clearance.
