Network Engineer

Supports the daily operations of the agency’s network infrastructure. This role focuses on monitoring, maintenance, and Tier 1-2 network troubleshooting. The candidate will work under the guidance of the Senior Network Engineer to ensure network availability and performance. 

Position requires on-site support 5 days per week, Monday through Friday. 

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
•    Support and maintain LAN/WAN, network devices, UPS, and environment monitoring system for DC headquarters facility and 52 field offices.
•    Install, Configure, and troubleshoot network equipment including Cisco routers, switches, Meraki wireless, and Palo Alto firewall appliances.
•    Support Internet connection and Zscaler remote access service for users and LAN-to-LAN IPSec connections to partner networks and dedicated WAN connection, e.g. vendor hosted site and Microsoft ExpressRoute connection.
•    Perform daily monitoring of network health using ManageEngine/OpManager/Netflow and Configuration Manager.
•    Create and update SOPs and various configuration tracking documents on a regular basis.
•    Handle routine network troubleshooting (physical and logical connectivity issues, port configurations, VLAN assignments). Coordinate with local teams and vendors, problem-solve and restore service as needed. 
•    Monitor Palo Alto firewall logs to identify and report traffic anomalies.
•    Troubleshoot WAN/MPLS circuit issues and open tickets with ISPs.

Required Skills

Qualifications:
•    Requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, engineering, or a related field plus 3+ years of relevant work experience in network support. Additional experience can be substituted for a degree.
•    Requires the following experience:
       •    Cisco Routing/Switching: Strong working knowledge of Cisco IOS, StackWise cabling/logic, and EtherChannel troubleshooting.
       •    Firewalls: Basic understanding of Palo Alto firewalls and the ability to navigate and operate Panorama for monitoring purposes.
       •    Cloud & VPN: Familiarity with IPSec VPN concepts and connectivity to Microsoft Azure.
       •    Wireless: Experience operating and troubleshooting Cisco Meraki wireless solutions.
       •    Troubleshooting: Demonstrated ability to diagnose Layer 1–7 issues (cabling, IP conflicts, network loop, routing, etc.).
•    Must be available for weekend maintenance events and emergency outages.
•    Must be engaging and proactive with critical thinking, strong desire to learn, and problem-solving ability, both independently and as part of a team. 
•    Candidates must demonstrate the ability to present ideas and reports clearly in English, both orally and in writing
•    Experience supporting a nationwide mid-sized Federal agency enterprise is a plus.
•    CCNA certification is highly desired.
•    Must obtain agency suitability clearance prior to start date.