Network Engineer

The Network Engineer will be tasked with driving multiple projects and operational initiatives rather than working on a single project scope. The role’s initial focus areas will include office and laboratory expansion, network modernization, and activities related to Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) implementation., * Providing network installation, commissioning, and deployment support across office and laboratory environments.

• Conducting rack and stack, structured cabling, patching, hardware installation, and network turn-up activities.
• Configuring and validating switching, wireless, and firewall platforms to ensure robust and secure connectivity.
• Participating in network design reviews, site assessments, and bill of materials (BOM) validation.
• Conducting wireless surveys to optimize and remediate wireless coverage and performance.
• Performing moves, adds, and changes (MACs) and offering general network operational support.
• Delivering incident response and on-site troubleshooting during business hours as required.
• Developing and maintaining network documentation, standards, and lifecycle plans for effective ongoing operations.
• Supporting the deployment and maintenance of Cisco ISE and wired/wireless 802.1X authentication solutions.
• Contributing to network modernization tasks and collaborative project delivery across teams.
• Managing multiple, concurrent projects and operational activities based on evolving priorities.
• Collaborating closely with engineering, operations, and project management teams to align solutions with enterprise standards.
• Participating in project planning, coordination with vendors, and stakeholder engagement on-site as needed.
• Traveling to other sites, both in-state and out-of-state, to directly support project implementation and site turn-ups.

• At least 5 years of hands-on experience as an enterprise network engineer.
• Direct experience with Cisco Catalyst switching platforms (configuration, deployment, troubleshooting).
• Strong proficiency with enterprise wireless technologies including controller-based access points and deployments.
• Expertise in firewall configuration and validation in enterprise settings.
• Practical skills in performing rack installations, structured cabling projects, fiber connectivity, and complete infrastructure turn-ups.
• Robust network troubleshooting abilities and a track record in operational support for complex environments.
• Experience creating, updating, and maintaining network documentation, diagrams, and standards.
• Willingness and ability to work on-site regularly in Rancho Cordova, with preference for Sacramento-area candidates.
• Openness and flexibility to travel out of state for project work as required (approx. 3-6 trips over the contract period).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, able to interact effectively with both technical and business stakeholders.

Preferred skills or experience:

• Experience with Cisco Nexus data center switching platforms.
• Hands-on exposure to Cisco ISE and 802.1X (wired/wireless) deployment and administration.
• Competency with wireless survey and validation tools such as Ekahau or AirMagnet.
• Background in supporting network environments for laboratory or specialized research purposes.
• Previous involvement in network design reviews, site assessments, and BOM validation processes.
• Cisco professional certifications, such as CCNA or CCNP Enterprise (or equivalent).
• Familiarity with network monitoring tools and Microsoft Office 365 (Visio, Excel, Teams).
• Proven ability to work in team-oriented settings, drive technical excellence, and consistently deliver high-quality results across numerous, fast-paced project assignments is critical.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field, or equivalent experience (preferred).
• Cisco certifications such as CCNA, CCNP, or equivalent vendor certifications are advantageous.