Network Engineer - Hybrid Work Schedule

The Network Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of complex, enterprise-wide mission-critical networks across on-premises and cloud environments. This role includes a strong focus on network security, vulnerability management, and cloud networking. Based out of the Houston, Texas office, this position requires planned, overnight travel to other Company locations within the United States. The Network Engineer reports directly to the Manager, Network & Security.

Responsibilities:

Strategy & Planning

• Design and plan scalable, secure network architectures for both on-premises and cloud environments (Azure).
• Ensure that network architecture designs prioritize security, aligning with industry best practices and modern security standards to protect against evolving threats.
• Develop, implement, and maintain policies, procedures and associated training plans for network resource administration, appropriate use, and disaster recovery.
• Establish service level agreements with end users.

Monitor Network Infrastructure:

• Monitor network performance to identify and troubleshoot network issues and restore network functionality.
• Function as internal subject matter expert for assigned Company networks.

• Assist in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of network systems, software, and related equipment.
• Assist senior staff with more complex tasks as needed.
• As directed, work with various product teams to determine proper network access for applications.
• Rigid adherence to monitoring & complying with Company network security policies and procedures.
• Process and follow up with any network related tickets from the Helpdesk.
• Maintain inventory of physical network assets.

Maintenance of Network Operating Systems:

• Creates maintenance plans for assigned Company networks to maintain network security, integrity, and availability.
• Communicate with key internal stake holders to plan for network down times to minimize disruptions to business operations.
• Develop and maintain diagrams, configuration templates, procedure manuals, asset inventory information and other relevant documentation pertaining to the Company's networks.
• Assist other Network Engineers with installation and operation of network infrastructure equipment including ensuring that all devices are running the latest supported firmware and software versions.

Acquisition & Deployment

• Oversee installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of end user workstation hardware, software, and peripheral devices.
• Interact and negotiate with vendors, outsourcers, and contractors to secure network products and services.
• Conduct research on network products, services, protocols, and standards in support of network procurement and development efforts.

Project Management of New Network Infrastructure:

• Research, evaluate, plan, coordinate and execute solutions related to new network projects, upgrades, replacements, or enhancements.
• Travel onsite and manage deployment/maintenance of new/upgraded cabling, infrastructure, and other equipment.
• Manage and assist third party contractors both onsite and remote on large scale development projects.

Position Requirements:

Experience:

• Experience supporting networks (routers, switches, SD-WAN, firewalls, wireless access points & controllers) for similarly sized or larger organizations, including managing endpoint security and deploying protective measures across networked devices.
• Experience working with network diagnostic, monitoring, and analysis tools.
• Experience with Cisco Meraki, ISE, Firewall Threat Defense, Citrix NetScaler's, cloud networking skills and SD-WAN--or similar systems.
• Implement, maintain, and manage endpoint security solutions, including monitoring for compliance and addressing vulnerabilities.

• Assist with Systems and Help Desk related functions during high season operation and special events.

• Performing routine backups and disaster recovery operations.
• Maintaining inventory of hardware and software assets.

Formal Education & Certification:

• Two (2) year Associate's degree in Networking, Computer Systems, or similar degree path (or) equivalent combination of education & experience.
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., CCNP) are preferred and considered beneficial for this role.

Knowledge & Experience:

• 5+ years or more of direct experience maintaining, servicing, and installing networking systems & architecture within a similar sized, or larger, organization.
• Advanced working knowledge of modern networks, including network protocols, technologies, physical hardware, and current best practices.

Qualifications & Characteristics:

• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to multi-task.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work in a fast paced, team environment.

Work Environment & Travel:

• 40-hour work week with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote, business conditions permitting.
• This position will have up to 50% planned, overnight travel to other site locations within the Company that could include weekends and Holidays.

• Must be available to work flexible hours as needed.

• Sitting for extended periods of time.
• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other computer components.
• Close visual acuity needed to review diagrams and for discerning fine print.
• Lifting and transporting of moderately heavy objects, such as computers and peripherals.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.