Network Operations Lead

Job role: Network Operations Lead

Duration: 6-month contract-to-hire

Location: Chattanooga, TN onsite

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary networking subject matter expert for infrastructure initiatives and projects.
• Plan, design, deploy, configure, maintain, and optimize enterprise LAN, WAN, wireless, and SD-WAN environments.
• Configure and support routers, switches, firewalls, wireless infrastructure, and related network equipment.
• Lead new network build-outs, infrastructure refreshes, equipment replacements, and network cabling initiatives.
• Monitor network performance and availability, troubleshoot complex issues, identify performance trends, and provide network performance reporting.
• Configure and troubleshoot routing protocols and technologies including OSPF, VRFs, IPsec, VPLS, and other enterprise networking technologies.
• Manage and maintain network security solutions, including firewall policies, zones, access controls, and security configurations.
• Perform network asset management, maintaining accurate inventories, technical documentation, diagrams, and equipment specifications.
• Install and upgrade network hardware and software while ensuring changes are completed according to established schedules and procedures.
• Coordinate with third-party network and technology vendors for installations, troubleshooting, maintenance, and equipment procurement.
• Collaborate with end users and internal IT teams to understand network requirements and develop appropriate technical solutions.
• Participate in infrastructure projects, technical meetings, and network planning sessions.
• Develop and maintain network operations procedures, standards, diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Ensure network operations align with industry security best practices and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Troubleshoot complex network hardware and software issues and implement effective solutions with minimal disruption to business operations.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects, priorities, and deliverables in a fast-paced environment.
• Provide technical guidance and expertise to other members of the IT organization as needed.
• Participate in after-hours or weekend maintenance activities when required to minimize network downtime.

Required:

• 4+ years of professional experience in network administration, network engineering, data communications, troubleshooting, or a related field.
• Strong hands-on experience with enterprise network architecture, design, implementation, and troubleshooting.
• Expert understanding of networking and routing protocols and the OSI model.
• Hands-on experience with SD-WAN, IPsec, VPLS, OSPF, and VRFs.
• Strong experience configuring and supporting Cisco networking equipment, particularly Cisco Catalyst and Meraki platforms.
• Expert-level experience with enterprise switch configuration and troubleshooting.
• Strong firewall administration experience, including configuration of zones, policies, rules, and security controls.
• Strong Check Point firewall experience is highly required.
• Experience designing, configuring, testing, and troubleshooting complex network environments.
• Strong understanding of network security principles and best practices.
• Experience working with network monitoring, performance management, and troubleshooting tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to independently identify issues and implement solutions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while maintaining a high level of attention to detail.