Network Infrastructure Specialist III

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Network Infrastructure Specialist III to join our dynamic IT team. In this critical role, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing our organization’s network infrastructure to ensure seamless connectivity, security, and performance. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in network operations, infrastructure management, and troubleshooting, with a proven track record of delivering reliable and scalable solutions. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the strategic growth of our IT infrastructure while working in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Network Design and Implementation: Develop and deploy robust network architectures, including LAN, WAN, VPN, and cloud-based solutions, to support organizational objectives. Collaborate with stakeholders to assess requirements and recommend infrastructure improvements.
• Network Operations and Maintenance: Monitor network performance, proactively identify and resolve issues, and ensure minimal downtime. Perform regular maintenance, upgrades, and patch management to maintain system integrity and security.
• Security and Compliance: Implement and enforce network security policies, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and encryption protocols. Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements to safeguard sensitive data.
• Troubleshooting and Support: Diagnose and resolve complex network issues, including hardware failures, connectivity problems, and performance bottlenecks. Provide tiered technical support to end-users and IT teams as needed.
• Vendor and Stakeholder Management: Liaise with vendors, service providers, and internal teams to procure network equipment, negotiate contracts, and ensure timely delivery of services. Maintain strong relationships to foster effective collaboration.
• Documentation and Reporting: Create and maintain accurate network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and operational procedures. Generate reports on network performance, incidents, and capacity planning for leadership review.
• Capacity Planning and Optimization: Analyze network traffic patterns, forecast future needs, and recommend scalable solutions to accommodate growth. Optimize network resources to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.
• Collaboration and Training: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including cybersecurity, cloud, and application development, to align network infrastructure with business goals. Provide mentorship and training to junior team members to enhance overall team capabilities.

Qualifications and Experience

To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field. Relevant certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, CompTIA Network+, or equivalent are highly desirable.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in network infrastructure design, implementation, and operations, with a focus on enterprise-level environments. Experience with routing, switching, firewalls, load balancers, and network monitoring tools is essential.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in network protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, VLANs, etc.) and technologies (SD-WAN, MPLS, VoIP).
  • Experience with network virtualization, cloud networking (AWS, Azure, or GCP), and hybrid environments.
  • Strong knowledge of network security principles, including VPNs, SSL/TLS, and zero-trust architectures.
  • Familiarity with network monitoring tools (SolarWinds, PRTG, Wireshark) and SIEM solutions.
  • Scripting and automation skills (Python, PowerShell, Bash) for network management and troubleshooting.
• Soft Skills: Excellent problem-solving abilities, strong communication skills, and the capacity to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders is a plus.
• Certifications (Preferred): Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE), CompTIA Network+, Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA), or similar credentials.

Benefits and Professional Growth

Joining our organization means becoming part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and professional development. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and career advancement, including:

• Health and Wellness: Access to a robust health and prescription insurance program with affordable co-payments, as well as a wellness program providing annual benefits with first-dollar coverage.
• Life Insurance: Term life insurance policy with coverage equal to two times your annual salary (up to $100,000).
• Retirement Programs: Participation in a Defined Benefit/Defined Contribution Retirement Program, with both employee and agency contributions. Vesting occurs after 8 years of service.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Opportunity to participate in pre-tax spending accounts for childcare and unreimbursed medical expenses.
• Paid Time Off: Generous leave policies, including approximately 18 days of personal leave and 12 days of sick leave annually, along with up to 10 paid holidays.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Support for continuing education in fields such as IT, business, or related disciplines to foster career growth.
• Career Development: Access to management certification programs, professional development courses, and technical training to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Promotional Opportunities: Eligibility for promotions within state government after completing 6 months of service, subject to meeting minimum qualifications.
• Networking and Resources: Membership in professional organizations and access to the Mississippi Public Employees’ Credit Union for financial services.

Why Join Us?

As a Network Infrastructure Specialist III, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the technological foundation of our organization. This position offers the chance to work on cutting-edge projects, collaborate with industry experts, and contribute to meaningful initiatives that drive business success. If you are passionate about network infrastructure and eager to take on a challenging yet rewarding role, we invite you to apply and become a key member of our IT team.