Job Summary
The role of the Network Engineer is to set up and maintain computer networks at Texas Southmost College. The primary responsibility of this person is to install, configure and support firewalls, routers, access points, cable and switches to ensure network operation and security throughout the entire campus. This role also provides technical and administrative support for networks and related systems. This person must display aptitude in the development and maintenance of network communications and uses their knowledge of LAN / WAN systems to help design and install internal and external networks. Other duties include performing wireless surveys, managing inventory, writing documentation, providing technical support to campus users and external departments, monitoring for network availability and performance, managing a vulnerability tracking process, and providing timely problem resolution. As a member of the information technology department, this position will participate in handling and responding to incoming support requests from campus users. The successful candidate will be involved in operational projects and collaborate with other departments to provide network services to the campus community. The position may also require participation in our on-call rotation and after-hours maintenance.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Ensures the stability and integrity of in-house voice, data, video and wireless network services and is responsible for supporting the architecture, configuration, implementation, support and maintenance of technologies. Displays expertise in network routing and switching design; knowledge of networking and security standards and proven success with LAN and WAN design and implementation. Works closely with systems analysts and security teams at a high level. Creates and maintains documentation relating to network configuration, network mapping, processes and service records while implementing policies and procedures and training plans for network administration. Oversees new and evaluates existing equipment, hardware and software upgrades; interacts and negotiates with vendors, outsourcers and contractors to secure network, products and services. Resolves problems of diverse scope where analysis of situation requires evaluation and judgment. Acts as an escalation point for User Services, Application Systems and Information Security team members. Interacts with vendors, attains budgetary quotes, assists the Technical Director and the Vice President of Information Technology to determine financial requirements for the operation of the network. Builds and maintains a Network Operation Center ( NOC ) for the Information Technology department. Maintains excellent communications with internal customers, IT resources, as well as external partners, consultants, and support teams. Updates job knowledge by tracking and understanding emerging engineering practices; participates in educational opportunities and professional organizations; reads professional publications and maintains professional/industry networks Monitors network performance and trends and determines the appropriate actions to resolve either short term or long-term issues. Utilizes network/datacenter monitoring tools to analyze network, server, and storage devices, maintains up-time, generates usage reports, and spots trends. Escalates issues with broader implications for entire networking environment to the Vice President of Information Technology, the Technical Director, the Chief Information Security Officer and other IT team members as required. Maintains and promotes information security best practices at the direction of the Chief Information Security Officer. Must be able to lift up to 35 pounds and work will occasionally require after hours and weekend work Writes reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals in English using proper grammar and spelling. Effectively presents information and respond to questions from groups employees, faculty, and the students as required. Delivers the highest level of customer service as set forth by the Department of Information Technology and/or Texas Southmost College. Provides updates, status, and completion information to management on a regular basis regarding all assigned incidents, requests, and projects. Escalates all high-priority or sensitive customer requests/concerns to the Vice President of Information Technology, the Technical Director, the Chief Information Security Officer and other IT team members as required. Coordinates activities with the Technical Help Desk, System Administrators, Network Services, Enterprise Application Services, and other team members as required. Provides consultative support to end users directly related to general business operations, software systems, technical assistance, and training as required. Produces relevant documentation surrounding operational processes and process improvement. Performs other related duties as assigned. Provides direction, as necessary, to staff regarding sensitive and/or complex work, related problems, resolves complaints and responds to inquiries regarding department operations Pursues professional development by taking internal or external classes or courses offered by the College or professional development organizations, as appropriate and by maintains required professional credentials, licensing, and continuing education hours as necessary to remain competent in the role. Participates collegially in discipline-specific activities developed for information technology, as appropriate. Attends the workplace regularly, reports to work punctually and follows a work schedule to keep up with the demands of the worksite (which may be on campus or at an off-site location). Uses interpersonal skills and makes sound judgments to decide how duties and responsibilities are completed between coworkers, the supervisory chain, faculty, staff, and students. Supports the values and institutional goals as defined in the College’s Strategic Plan. Completes duties and responsibilities in compliance with college standards, policies and guidelines. Working hours may include evenings or weekends.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.