Networking Manager

The Networking Manager provides leadership and technical direction for the design, implementation, and operation of Southern Linc's core IP network infrastructure within its datacenters. This position blends IP networking and telecommunications engineering expertise to plan, procure, install, and maintain mission-critical systems supporting Southern Linc's 4G LTE packet core.

The successful candidate will oversee the team that manages Southern Linc's network equipment such as datacenter switches, routers, firewalls, and proprietary telecommunications systems. They will also collaborate with operations and monitoring teams to ensure reliability and performance. The manager will also establish and enforce installation, operational, and cybersecurity standards consistent with industry and Southern Company's best practices., * Design and implement virtualized network and server infrastructure to support capacity growth and lifecycle upgrades.

• Develop and maintain technical documentation and standard operating procedures.
• Serve as an escalation point for Southern Linc's Customer Care and Network Operations Center.
• Collaborate with IT Security to support assessments and remediation activities.
• Manage network issues and tickets; participate in an on-call rotation, including nights and weekends.
• Provide input for annual capital and O&M budgets.
• Supervise and mentor Core Network Engineering team members; manage performance and development.
• Lead long- and short-term business planning for the Core Network Engineering team.
• Oversee network performance improvement initiatives and budgeting for the Core Network Engineering group.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience maintaining IP routing and switching equipment.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience designing and implementing networking systems in collaboration with vendors.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Deep understanding of networking fundamentals and protocols, including OSI model, Ethernet, 802.1Q, IP, TCP/UDP, OSPF, BGP, and IPSec.
• Strong knowledge of firewalls and stateful inspection principles.
• Experience with Syslog, SNMP, and other network monitoring protocols and tools.
• Proficiency with network traffic analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark).
• Excellent troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and project management skills.
• Ability to innovate, prioritize, and work independently in a fast-paced environment., * Cisco certifications (CCNA, CCNP, or higher).
• Experience with firewall policy management (Palo Alto preferred).
• Familiarity with software-defined networking (SDN) concepts and solutions (Arista CCF/EOS preferred).
• Experience with VMware and NSX-T virtualization technologies.
• Knowledge of LTE cellular technology, signaling, and best practices.
• Experience with carrier network deployments or MPLS traffic engineering.
• Understanding of intrusion prevention systems and cybersecurity best practices., * Safety-focused and committed to Southern Company's values.
• Demonstrates integrity, accountability, and teamwork.
• Customer-focused with a commitment to reliability and service excellence.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across technical and business teams.
• Candidate will need to pass Southern Co ITP certification

• Standard office and datacenter environments.
• Participation in on-call rotation, including nights and weekends.
• May require lifting and installation of network equipment.

Southern Company (NYSE: SO ) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture has been recognized by a variety of organizations, earning the company awards and recognitions that reflect Our Values and dedication to service. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com . Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees and health, welfare and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount of any bonus/awards subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s). A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here https://seo.nlx.org/southernco/pdf/SOCO-Benefits.pdf . Additional and specific details about total compensation and bene?ts will also be provided during the hiring process. Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.