Network and Infrastructure Administrator

Gardner-Webb University is seeking to hire a Network and Infrastructure Administrator.  Please review the details below for position responsibilities, qualifications and application instructions.

Position Summary

The Network & Infrastructure Administrator is responsible for the design, deployment, security, and maintenance of the university’s wired and wireless network infrastructure. This role ensures high availability, performance, and security across LAN/WLAN environments, including enterprise wireless (Aruba/HPE), firewall systems (Fortinet), and secure access technologies. The position provides expert level support, manages vendor relationships, leads infrastructure projects, and supports identity and access management initiatives (IDAM). Will also help support virtualization and computing infrastructure and other duties assigned by their supervisor.

Key Responsibilities

Network Infrastructure

· Deploy, configure, and maintain Aruba/HPE wired and wireless network infrastructure, including access points, controllers, and switches.

· Monitor and optimize LAN/WLAN performance using network monitoring tools and diagnostics.

· Manage Internet connectivity and bandwidth utilization through traffic shaping and monitoring.

· Maintain fiber optic backbone and structured cabling documentation.

Network Security & Firewall Administration

· Configure and maintain Fortinet firewalls (FortiGate), including security policies, firmware updates, and intrusion prevention features.

· Manage VPN access and remote connectivity solutions with a focus on secure identity-based access.

· Implement and maintain network segmentation and access controls.

Identity & Access Management (IDAM)

· Support and help administer identity and access systems, ensuring secure authentication and authorization for users across network services.

· Collaborate with the security and systems teams to ensure integration of IDAM with firewalls, VPN, and wireless infrastructure.

Technical Leadership & Support

· Provide Tier 3 technical support for networking issues escalated by IT support staff.

· Lead network-related projects including upgrades, new deployments, and infrastructure enhancements.

· Create and maintain detailed network documentation including configurations, diagrams, and standard operating procedures.

Vendor & Project Management

· Evaluate vendor proposals and participate in contract negotiations for networking and security hardware/software.

· Coordinate with external providers for Internet service and infrastructure support agreements.

· Monitor service-level performance and enforce technical standards with vendors and contractors.

Required Qualifications

· Associate degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related field; or equivalent professional experience.

· 3 years of hands-on experience with enterprise networking.

· Experience configuring and managing firewalls.

· Familiarity with identity and access management systems (e.g., RADIUS, SAML, MFA integration).

· Solid understanding of IP networking, VLANs, DHCP, DNS, and routing protocols.

· Experience performing site surveys and managing wireless deployments.

· Ability to document systems, create diagrams, and communicate technical information clearly.

· Familiarity with Load Balancers, virtualization infrastructure, and scripting techniques.

Preferred Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related field; or equivalent professional experience.

· Aruba wireless knowledge/certifications.

· Fortinet NSE certifications (NSE 4 or above).

· Experience with monitoring tools such as PRTG, SolarWinds, or similar SIEM systems.

· Familiarity with hybrid cloud networking or VPN technologies (e.g., Azure, AWS)

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should complete the application and include a letter of interest, résumé, and names and contact information for at least three professional references with their submission.  

Gardner-Webb University (gardner-webb.edu) is a coeducational, residential, private, historically Baptist, Christian institution, located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina with easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville-Spartanburg. The University offers 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 3,000 students. GWU is a Carnegie-classified Doctoral/Professional University. In 2023, Gardner-Webb was home to students from 93 counties in North Carolina, 44 US states, and 43 foreign countries. GWU is a NCAA Division I institution with 22 athletic teams and 460 student-athletes.