What are the responsibilities and job description for the Network Engineer position at Fairway IT Solutions?
About Us
Fairway IT Solutions is a Chicago-based Managed Service Provider delivering enterprise-grade IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and cloud services to small & mid-market businesses across the Midwest. We are professional, client-centric, and committed to building a team where great work is recognized and rewarded.
Our work environment includes:
- Modern office setting with collaborative team culture
- Hybrid schedule with work-from-home flexibility
- Clear advancement path and professional development support
Role Overview
We are seeking a mid-level Network Engineer to join our engineering team and own the design, deployment, and ongoing management of network infrastructure across our client base. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced MSP environment, can context-switch across multiple client environments, and has hands-on experience with the platforms we deploy daily.
Responsibilities
- Design, deploy, and maintain LAN/WAN infrastructure across multiple client environments.
- Configure and manage firewalls, switches, and wireless access points (Meraki, Fortinet, Cisco).
- Implement and maintain SD-WAN solutions and ISP redundancy configurations.
- Troubleshoot escalated network incidents and drive resolution with minimal downtime.
- Monitor and analyze network performance; respond to alerts proactively.
- Develop and enforce network security policies aligned with client compliance requirements (NIST, CIS).
- Support Microsoft 365 network dependencies including Conditional Access, Intune, and Defender for Endpoint.
- Perform system backups, DR testing, and document recovery procedures.
- Create and maintain network diagrams and configuration documentation.
- Serve as a technical resource for client onboarding and infrastructure assessments.
Requirements
- 5 years of hands-on network engineering experience in a professional IT environment.
- 3 years of MSP or IT consulting experience strongly preferred.
- Proficiency with Cisco Meraki (MX, MS, MR) and/or Fortinet FortiGate.
- Solid understanding of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), VLANs, QoS, and VPN technologies (IPSec, SSL, SASE).
- Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 networking — Teams, Exchange Online, Entra ID, Intune.
- Experience with SD-WAN platforms and multi-WAN failover configurations.
- Ability to manage multiple concurrent client projects independently and as part of a team.
- Strong documentation habits and communication skills (client-facing required).
- Reliable commute to or relocation to Chicago, IL 60631 before start date (Required).
Certifications (Preferred)
- CCNA or CCNP (Cisco)
- Meraki CMNO (Cisco Meraki Network Operator)
- Fortinet NSE 4 or higher
- CompTIA Network or Security
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company matching
- Life insurance and employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule and hybrid work model
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance and certification reimbursement
- Employee referral program
Schedule
- Monday to Friday, with occasional on-call rotation
Work Location: Hybrid — Chicago, IL 60631. Candidates must be able to reliably commute or plan to relocate prior to their start date.
Apply on Indeed: https://www.indeed.com/job/network-engineer-fb8e01cd636c2d8e