Information Technology Network Specialist - Level II

Basic Functions:
An Information Technology (IT) Network Specialist Level II at BLaST provides advanced support, maintenance, and optimization of IT systems for our client base, including businesses, school districts, government agencies, and internal infrastructure. This mid-level position is a strong blend of technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and customer service excellence.

Core Responsibilities:

• Troubleshooting: Efficiently address and resolve complex technical issues that exceed first-level support capabilities, focusing on specialized software and hardware challenges.
• System Upgrades and Implementations: Lead and assist in the execution of system upgrades or new system deployments, prioritizing minimal operational disruption and seamless integration.
• System Maintenance and Monitoring: Perform regular checks on client systems for optimal performance, executing routine maintenance tasks like patch management, software updates, and system backups to mitigate potential issues.
• Client Consultation and Training: Provide expert technical advice to clients regarding IT infrastructure best practices and conduct training sessions for client staff on new systems or software applications.
• On-Call Network Outage Responsibilities: Serve as a contact for network outages, including immediate troubleshooting and coordination with relevant teams to ensure timely resolution. This responsibility requires availability outside of standard working hours, including weekends and holidays, to address urgent network issues.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Networking Protocols & Services: Understanding TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, FTP, HTTP, SMTP, and SNMP. Familiarity with IPv4/IPv6 addressing and subnetting.
• Firewall Management: Experience with configuring and managing firewalls for securing network boundaries. Knowledge of firewall rules, VPN configurations, and intrusion detection/prevention systems.
• Switch Configuration: Proficiency in setting up, configuring, and managing switches (Layer 2 and Layer 3). Understanding VLANs, trunking, and switch security features.
• Routing: Understanding of static and dynamic routing protocols. Ability to configure and troubleshoot routing issues.
• Wireless Networking: Experience with the deployment and management of wireless networks, including, troubleshooting connectivity issues.
• Network Security Practices: Knowledge of best practices for network security, including securing devices and communications, access control lists (ACLs), and securing network services.
• Network Monitoring and Troubleshooting: Ability to use network monitoring tools for troubleshooting and performance tuning.
• Virtualization and Cloud Services: Familiarity with virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, KVM)
• Hardware and Software Management: Experience with the installation, configuration, and maintenance of network hardware (routers, switches, firewalls) and software.

Essential Functions:

• Implement and manage security protocols to safeguard systems against threats.
• Ensure adherence to relevant IT policies, standards, and regulations.
• Deliver exceptional service, showcasing patience, empathy, and professionalism.
• Achieve client satisfaction through effective communication and timely issue resolution.
• Accurately maintain and update records of support requests and resolutions.
• Regularly update knowledge base articles to reflect solutions for common issues.
• Create and maintain customer network documentation.
• Exhibit strong phone and in-person communication skills.
• Demonstrate the ability to interact effectively with IT professionals and end-users.
• Maintain clear and concise verbal and written communication abilities.
• Good organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Continuously advance personal and professional IT competencies.
• Stay informed about emerging trends in the IT field.
• Must demonstrate a strong initiative in self-learning and professional development. Actively seeks out educational opportunities, workshops, and industry seminars to enhance technical knowledge and stay current with emerging network technologies and best practices.
• Maintain a valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle for scheduled and unscheduled travel.
• Demonstrate punctuality and reliability.
• Possess the physical ability to lift equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Participate in on-call rotation to provide after-hours support for critical network issues.
• Attend relevant training sessions or workshops to maintain and enhance technical skills.
• Travel Requirements: Regular travel to various IU locations and customer sites is mandatory. This may include travel outside of BLaST IU17’s region and necessitates overnight stays, which will be covered by the employer as per company policy.
• Be prepared to undertake other duties as assigned.

Qualifications (Minimum):
An Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with at least 2 years of relevant experience; alternatively, industry-standard certifications and equivalent professional experience will be considered in lieu of a formal degree.

Salary : $62,000 - $72,000