Network Engineer

The Division of Administrative Services is seeking an innovative and experienced Network Engineer to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Director of Technology Operations, this full-time, fiscal-year position is integral to maintaining the College’s modern, secure, and high-performing network infrastructure.

This role focuses on the design, deployment, and management of advanced networking and communication systems. The ideal candidate will leverage cutting-edge technologies to ensure robust performance, scalability, and security, supporting the College’s mission to deliver exceptional technology experiences., * Next-Generation Network Infrastructure Management

• Design, implement, and maintain high-performance local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and Wi-Fi 6/6E wireless networks across all college locations.
• Utilize software-defined networking (SDN) solutions to enhance network scalability and programmability.
• Implement cloud-native networking solutions, including AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud networking tools.

• Configure and optimize advanced network protocols, including IPv6, BGP, and OSPF. * Cybersecurity and Compliance

• Deploy and manage zero-trust network architectures to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., NIST, CIS, GDPR).
• Configure and maintain next-generation firewalls (NGFWs), intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and network access control (NAC) solutions.

• Proactively monitor and analyze network traffic using tools like SIEM platforms (e.g., Splunk, LogRhythm) to detect and mitigate threats. * Advanced System Integration

• Integrate network infrastructure with cloud-based services (e.g., Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and other SaaS platforms).
• Support and troubleshoot virtualized environments, including VMware NSX, Hyper-V, and Docker/Kubernetes networking.

• Collaborate with DevOps teams to implement Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) solutions using tools like Terraform, Ansible, or CloudFormation. * Unified Communication and Collaboration Systems

• Deploy and manage modern VoIP and Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) platforms, such as Cisco Webex, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams.
• Optimize E911 compliance, digital and analog trunking, SIP services, and VoIP solutions for seamless communication.
• Manage multimedia conferencing technologies to support hybrid work and learning environments.
• Operational Excellence and Automation
• Leverage automation tools to streamline network configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting processes.
• Implement AI-driven network management tools to enhance network reliability and reduce downtime.

• Maintain accurate documentation of all network systems, configurations, and processes. * Strategic Planning and Leadership

• Contribute to long-term strategic planning for network infrastructure upgrades, aligning with the College’s goals.
• Develop and manage budgets for network-related projects, ensuring cost-effective solutions.
• Provide mentorship and leadership to junior staff and project teams.

• Associate’s degree in Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• At least 5 years of experience in managing enterprise-level networks with modern technologies. * Technical Expertise

• Proficiency in networking technologies, including Ethernet, TCP/IP, VLANs, and QoS.
• Experience with Wi-Fi 6/6E, SD-WAN, and cloud-based networking platforms.
• Strong familiarity with virtual networking technologies, including VPNs, VXLAN, and load balancing solutions.
• Expertise in managing Windows and Linux/UNIX servers, including network service integration., * Industry certifications such as CCNP, AWS Certified Advanced Networking, Cisco DevNet Professional, or Palo Alto Networks PCNSE.
• Familiarity with containerized environments and networking in Kubernetes or Docker Swarm.
• Experience deploying AI/ML-driven network optimization tools.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of automation frameworks and scripting (e.g., Python, Bash, PowerShell).
• Hands-on experience with monitoring tools like SolarWinds, Nagios, or Cisco DNA Center.
• Proven ability to diagnose and resolve complex networking issues efficiently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Southwest Tennessee Community College is a comprehensive, multicultural, public, open-access college. Southwest has four campuses/centers from which it offers over 100 programs and over 20 technical certificate programs.

We foster student success, transform lives, and increase the educational level of a growing community in Shelby County. Southwest is a Tennessee Board of Regents institution, accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.