Network Support Engineer
A Network Support Engineer is responsible for maintaining computer networks, solving technical problems, and ensuring network security and efficiency in an organization.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Network Support Engineer
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
We are seeking a talented and motivated Network Support Engineer to join our technical team. This entry-level position is designed for individuals who are passionate about networking technologies and are eager to get started in the industry. The right candidate will participate in supporting and maintaining network systems, ensuring the stability and integrity of data and voice IP services.
Required Skills
- Networking
- Troubleshooting
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Technical support
- Time management
- System administration
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- Basic understanding of networking principles and components such as VPNs, firewalls, switches, and routers.
- Familiarity with common networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP) and services (DNS, FTP, SSH).
- Knowledge of operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux.
- Excellent troubleshooting skills and a keen attention to detail.
- Effective communication and documentation skills.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Responsibilities
- Monitor network performance and troubleshoot problem areas as needed.
- Ensure network connectivity of all servers, workstations, telephony equipment, and other network appliances.
- Participate in managing all network security solutions.
- Perform regular maintenance and system upgrades including service packs, patches, hot fixes, and security configurations.
- Work within established configuration and change management policies to ensure awareness, approval, and success of changes made to the network infrastructure.
- Assist in preparing, maintaining, and upholding procedures for logging, reporting, and statistically monitoring network performance.
- Collaborate with other team members to resolve IT issues efficiently.
- Support administration of servers and server clusters.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
We are seeking an experienced Network Support Engineer to join our IT team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for maintaining and improving our network infrastructure, troubleshooting network problems, and ensuring high levels of network performance and security.
Required Skills
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced environment.
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and challenges.
- Detail-oriented and excellent organizational skills.
- Strong understanding of networking protocols (e.g., IPSEC, HSRP, BGP, OSPF, 802.11, QoS).
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
- CCNA, CCNP, or other relevant industry certifications.
- Proven hands-on network engineering experience.
- Familiarity with access control models and network security.
- Experience with network diagnostic, monitoring and analysis tools (e.g., SolarWinds network tools).
- Solid understanding of network operating systems (JUNOS, Cisco IOS).
Responsibilities
- Troubleshoot and resolve network issues in a timely manner.
- Monitor network performance and ensure system availability and reliability.
- Perform network maintenance and system upgrades including service packs, patches, hot fixes, and security configurations.
- Work within established configuration and change management policies to ensure awareness, approval, and success of changes made to the network infrastructure.
- Select and implement security tools, policies, and procedures in conjunction with the company's security team.
- Liaise with vendors and other IT personnel for problem resolution.
- Provide technical support and guidance to users with regard to network usage.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Senior Network Support Engineer, you will be responsible for maintaining and improving our organization's networking infrastructure. Your vast experience in network design, implementation, and troubleshooting will be crucial in ensuring a seamless and secure network environment for our clientele.
Required Skills
- Knowledge of coding languages for script writing (e.g., Python, Perl)
- In-depth understanding of communication protocols (mainly TCP/IP) and routing protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF)
- Familiarity with network simulation tools (e.g., GNS3, packet tracer)
- Understanding of network security protocols and implementation
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field
- Professional certification (e.g., CCNP, CCDP)
- Proven experience as a Network Engineer, Network Administrator, or similar role
- Familiarity with access control models and network security
- Experience with network diagnostic, monitoring, and analysis tools (e.g., SolarWinds network tools)
- Solid understanding of network operating systems (JUNOS, Cisco IOS)
- Sharp troubleshooting skills
- Ability to work independently
- Organizational and mentoring skills
Responsibilities
- Design and deploy functional networks (LAN, WLAN, WAN)
- Configure and install software, servers, routers, and other network devices
- Monitor network performance and integrity
- Resolve issues tiers of support have escalated by troubleshooting cloud and local infrastructure
- Automate tasks and monitor their effectiveness
- Mentor team members on technical issues
- Create, oversee, and test security measures (e.g., access authentication and disaster recovery)
- Communicate with users when needed
- Maintain complete technical documentation
- Suggest improvements to network performance, capacity, and scalability
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