Description

Whisker, formerly known as AutoPets, is the maker of Litter-Robot, Feeder-Robot, and Litterbox.com. At Whisker, we believe pet parenthood can always get better.

As leading innovators in pet tech and refined pet accessories, we work tirelessly to solve problems and deliver smarter insights for pet parents while enriching the lives of pets. Whether it’s a self-cleaning litter box that automates scooping, an automatic feeder that helps pets develop healthier eating habits, or a modern cat tree that delights both humans and felines, we strive to deliver better solutions for consumers while transforming pet care along the way. To us, having a pet is the best thing ever. At Whisker, life together just keeps getting better.

Whisker is based in Auburn Hills, Michigan and Juneau, Wisconsin with 350 passionate team members.

What You’ll Do:

The Network Engineer is responsible for purchasing, installing, configuring, and maintaining the network infrastructure, access control, and security appliances in our Juneau, Wisconsin plant. Working with the Director of Information Technology and VP of Operations, the Network Engineer is responsible for purchasing, installing, configuring, and maintaining the network infrastructure, access control, and security appliances in our Juneau Wisconsin plant. This individual will ensure that best practices are followed to allow high availability, performance, and security of the systems that keep our facility operational. This individual will also troubleshoot and resolve technical issues for local and remote team members; identify and document root-causes, and add preventative measures related to any system interruptions. The Network Engineer will also produce complete architecture and process documentation to ensure business continuity.

Network Infrastructure

• Procures, installs and configures all network-connected equipment including, but not limited to: firewalls, switches, routers, WiFi access points, building access-control system, security camera system, and printers
• Ensures that the networking components are up to date with patches and latest firmware updates
• Maintains and monitors internet connectivity, troubleshoots issues with providers and maintains an active/passive failover system
• Evaluates lifespan of components and make recommendations for expansion or replacement for out-of-date equipment
• Adds and re-routes network drops throughout the facility as we expand or reorganize shipping and production areas
• Produces and maintains network diagrams and documentation of Juneau infrastructure and a knowledge base of procedures
• Implements and maintains a guest-wifi access system
• Collaborates with the Michigan IT team to ensure VPN connectivity between locations and consistency in processes
• Monitors network performance and availability, taking a proactive approach to ensure a goal of 100% uptime for in-house and remotely connected endpoints
• Acts as the main point of contact for any network performance or downtime:
  • Communicates and provides updates to stakeholders and end clients with a sense of urgency
  • Resolves or escalates issues in a timely manner
  • Provides root-cause analysis and put in place preventative measures to ensure we do not have repeat issues
  • Proactively communicates maintenance windows and documents all changes and followed procedures
• Maintains warehouse radio system, inventory, and procedures
• Partners with vendors on large-scale installations

Computing/Productivity/Communications

• Partners with help-desk associates to ensure team members are always able to perform their job duties using IT-provided hardware
• Acts as an administrator for GSuite and other applications used by the Juneau team, modifying permissions and roles as necessary for accounts
• Assembles and maintains mobile computing carts used in production
• Provides support for the warehouse VOIP phone system and works with our provider to ensure availability and quality of service
• Manages the deployment of new devices to team members 

General

• Project management - set expectations and deliver projects on time and within budget
• Escalate blockers and ensure constant communication with stakeholders and leadership
• Identify areas for improvement everywhere - not just in your “swim lane” - and suggest potential solutions, assisting with implementation, where applicable
• Participates in on-call rotation acting as primary point of contact for off-shift incidents, partnering with on-call team members in resolving issues

Will perform additional responsibilities when required 

Requirements

What You’ll Bring:

• BS in Computer Science or related field
• 5 years of experience with managing a network, including firewalls, switches, and wireless access points
• 5 years of experience with authorization and access management
• CompTIA or related certifications
• Expert knowledge of LAN/WAN and Wireless infrastructure
• Knowledge of database management and SQL skills
• Understanding of web technologies and protocols
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams and communicate effectively with a full range of positions and experience, from a facilitator/specialist all the way to the CEO
• Extreme attention to detail and highly organized
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication skills - both written and verbal
• The desire to learn constantly and dive into new areas with unfamiliar technologies
• Maintains confidentiality of proprietary information

Not Required but Nice to Have!

• Cybersecurity Certification
• Experience in PHP development or other coding languages
• Experience in a manufacturing or shipping environment

Benefits & Purrks: 

Join a tenacious, inventive company that empowers team members to chart their own path, lead by grounding decisions in the “why”, and has a strong sense of empathy and openness to new perspectives. Be a part of exciting growth, work with incredible people, and create tomorrow’s pet products—plus a whole lot of extras. You will also be provided with:

• Premium Medical/Dental/Vision insurance
• Life Insurance
• PTO
• 14 Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• 401K with 4% Match
• Flexible Work Arrangements
• Top of the line equipment

Statement of Inclusivity:

We believe different perspectives make Whisker better and strive to create a place where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive.