Specialist, Infrastructure (Network Admin.)

Role Overview

The Specialist, Infrastructure (Network Admin.) plays a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and maintaining robust network infrastructure solutions to support organizational objectives. This position requires a strategic approach to network architecture, ensuring seamless connectivity, enhanced security, and optimal performance across all systems. The ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative network solutions while adhering to industry best practices and ITIL frameworks.

Key Responsibilities

The Specialist, Infrastructure (Network Admin.) will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

• Network Design and Implementation: Develop high-level and low-level network designs, implementation plans, migration strategies, and testing protocols for new projects. Evaluate existing network architectures and propose enhancements to improve efficiency and scalability.
• Cisco Network Management: Provide comprehensive support for Long Products Networks utilizing Cisco devices, including LAN, WLAN, and routing configurations tailored to evolving business requirements.
• Security Infrastructure: Maintain and enhance security devices, including Cisco ASA/Firepower and Cisco ISE, to ensure robust protection against cyber threats. Implement and manage OT security solutions using Fortinet technologies.
• VPN and Remote Access Management: Oversee site-to-site VPN connections and IPsec VPN configurations with Checkpoint and F5 Big IP APM, ensuring secure and reliable remote access.
• Telephony and Conferencing Systems: Manage Cisco Call Manager, wireless controllers, IP telephony systems, and IP conferencing solutions to facilitate seamless communication across the organization.
• Technology Adoption: Stay abreast of the latest network technologies and recommend innovative solutions to address complex business challenges and operational inefficiencies.
• Incident and Problem Resolution: Provide timely solutions to service requests in alignment with approved designs. Address network security incidents promptly to minimize disruptions and mitigate risks.
• Project Oversight: Lead network deployment projects, including cabling, procurement, installation, and coordination with third-party contractors in industrial environments.
• Collaborative Support: Assist Wintel and End-User Computing teams in resolving incidents and ensuring alignment with ITIL processes, including incident, problem, change, and CMDB management.
• 24/7 Support and Monitoring: Provide round-the-clock support through on-call duties. Proactively monitor network performance to detect and resolve issues before they escalate, implementing preventive maintenance measures as needed.
• Policy Enforcement and Security: Secure network systems by enforcing access policies, monitoring network traffic, and conducting regular security assessments to identify vulnerabilities and implement mitigation strategies.

Qualifications and Experience

To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following educational and professional requirements:

• Education: Minimum of three years of hands-on experience as a Network Administrator, with a strong background in network infrastructure and SD-WAN technologies.
• Technical Proficiency: In-depth knowledge of Cisco, HP, and HFCL switches and routers, along with expertise in Cisco Call Manager and wireless controllers. Familiarity with firewalls, VPN implementations, and remote troubleshooting is essential.
• Security Expertise: Ability to design, implement, and manage comprehensive network security policies. Proficient in configuring and managing security tools such as intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and antivirus software. Conduct regular security tests and monitoring to identify and address vulnerabilities.
• Network Administration: Experience in managing Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN), firewalls, Web Application Firewalls (WAF), Network Management Systems (NMS), and load balancers. Practical experience with Checkpoint and Palo Alto firewalls is highly desirable.
• Windows Environment: Strong knowledge of DNS, DHCP, WINS, and DFS within Windows Server 2012 and 2016 landscapes. Proficient in managing Symantec Endpoint Protection and McAfee Endpoint Security solutions.
• Identity and Access Management: Experience in implementing and managing Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) and Privileged Access Management (PAM) solutions to enhance security and access control.
• Support and Troubleshooting: Capability to provide L1 and L2 technical support for network printers, Microsoft Teams, Outlook, and Exchange, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal performance.

Work Environment and Expectations

The Specialist, Infrastructure (Network Admin.) will operate in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, requiring adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to continuous learning. The role demands a proactive approach to network management, with a focus on delivering high-availability solutions and maintaining stringent security standards. Collaboration with stakeholders across the organization is essential to align network strategies with business goals.