Information Technology Specialist II

• Design and architect complex network solutions based on business requirements and industry best practices.
• Lead the implementation and deployment of network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, WAPs, and VPN concentrators.
• Configure, optimize, and maintain network components to ensure high availability, reliability, and performance.
• Continuously monitor network performance, proactively identifying and resolving issues to minimize downtime and optimize efficiency.
• Utilize network monitoring tools and traffic analysis techniques to troubleshoot and enhance network traffic flow and bandwidth utilization.
• Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) for troubleshooting complex network issues escalated from junior engineers and support teams.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to resolve network-related incidents and problems.
• Perform capacity planning exercises to forecast network growth and ensure scalability for future business needs.
• Recommend, plan, and implement network upgrades and enhancements to support increased bandwidth and new technologies.
• Manage relationships with vendors, service providers, and contractors, ensuring optimal service delivery.
• Evaluate vendor proposals, negotiate contracts, and oversee procurement of network hardware and services.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior network engineers and support staff, fostering professional development.
• Foster a collaborative team environment, encouraging knowledge sharing and professional development.
• Ensure network infrastructure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards (e.g., CLETS, CJIS).
• Implement and enforce network security policies, procedures, and controls to safeguard sensitive data and ensure data integrity.
• Create and maintain comprehensive network documentation, including network diagrams, configurations, procedures, and operational guidelines.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for management on network performance, project status, and improvement recommendations.
• Participate in on-call rotation and promptly respond to critical incidents during non-business hours including nights and during weekends.
• Ensure highly available internet connectivity at all City sites.
• Find additional information in the Information Technology Specialist II job description.

Information Technology & Information Systems, Team Player, Information Technology & Information Systems, Public Safety, Communications Engineering, Best Practices, Network Architecture/Engineering, Network Administration/Management, Firewalls, VPN (Virtual Private Network), Do you have the desire to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant and diverse community?Join a collaborative workforce committed to serving the City of Irvine., * Bachelor’s degree in computer science or closely related field and five (5) years of information technology experience, with one of those years acting in a lead or expert capacity performing a variety of progressively responsible technical or analytical tasks for computer systems or services in one or more functional areas, or a closely related or emerging information technology field orany combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Best Fit

• Advanced knowledge of networking protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, BGP, OSPF, and MPLS.
• Expertise in network hardware including routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, and proxy servers.
• Experience in designing and implementing complex network architectures that align with business needs.
• Experience planning and implementing SD-WAN.
• Strong understanding of scalable network design principles for high availability and performance.
• Proficiency in implementing and maintaining network security measures, including firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, and access control policies.
• Familiarity with security best practices and compliance requirements (e.g., CLETS, CJIS).
• Familiarity with wireless networking standards (e.g., 802.11ac, 802.11ax) and technologies and experience in designing and securing wireless networks for optimal performance and coverage.
• Strong understanding of access control models and network security frameworks.
• Hands-on experience with network diagnostic, monitoring, and analysis tools (e.g., LogicMonitor, SolarWinds).
• Solid expertise in network operating systems (e.g., Cisco IOS).
• Advanced troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex network issues efficiently.
• Able to mentor junior engineers and teach advanced troubleshooting techniques.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Experience in implementing QoS policies to prioritize network traffic and optimize performance for critical applications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to conduct root cause analysis and implement effective solutions under pressure.
• Proficiency in creating and maintaining detailed network documentation, including network diagrams, configurations, and operational procedures.
• Ability to prepare and deliver reports and presentations on network performance, projects, and initiatives for management and stakeholders.
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with emerging network technologies and industry trends.

The City of Irvine offers competitive compensation and benefits packages. Click here to view the benefits available for this position.