Network Engineer

Network Engineer II Chicago, IL 60654 & Austin, TX 78701 RWE Americas, LLC seeks a Network Engineer II to support and scale our energy infrastructure across wind, solar, storage, and hybrid facilities. The role requires strong networking fundamentals, hands‑on experience in Operational Technology (OT) environments, and the ability to operate independently across geographically distributed sites. Role Responsibilities Independently configure, deploy, and maintain OT network infrastructure including switches, routers, and firewalls across multiple operational sites Troubleshoot intermediate networking issues such as: Routing misconfigurations VLAN segmentation errors SCADA connectivity and latency issues Perform routine network monitoring and log analysis to identify: Performance degradation Unauthorized access attempts Network anomalies Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date network documentation, including: Network diagrams Topology maps Equipment inventories Implement and support secure remote access solutions for field technicians and vendors, ensuring compliance with access control policies Execute structured change management procedures, including: Scheduled upgrades Configuration changes Maintenance windows with rollback planning Assist in managing firewall rulesets and intrusion prevention systems in coordination with OT cybersecurity teams Support site expansion and commissioning activities, including integration of new assets across wind, solar, battery storage, and hybrid facilities Conduct root cause analysis for recurring network issues and implement corrective actions Train and guide field technicians on: Basic troubleshooting Documentation standards Operational procedures Participate in network vulnerability assessments, patching cycles, and remediation efforts Collaborate closely with SCADA and control systems teams to ensure high availability and secure system integration Travel to operational sites to: Perform upgrades and maintenance Conduct advanced troubleshooting Improve network documentation and standards Job Requirements and Experiences Bachelor’s degree in Networking, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience) Minimum 3 years of hands‑on networking experience Experience supporting or working within Operational Technology (OT) environments Mid‑level industry certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP or equivalent) Strong understanding of: TCP/IP networking fundamentals Routing and switching VLAN design and segmentation Firewall and access control concepts Experience in the energy sector (wind, solar, battery storage, oil & gas, or utilities) Hands‑on experience with: Cisco networking technologies Palo Alto firewalls Industrial networking equipment Familiarity with SCADA systems and industrial control networks Exposure to OT cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., ISA/IEC 62443, NERC CIP) Experience working in distributed, field‑based environments Ability to work independently across multiple sites and priorities Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills High attention to detail, especially in documentation and change control Effective communication across engineering, operations, and field teams Adaptability in dynamic, operationally critical environments Strong interpersonal skills, with ability to manage customer relationships Demonstrated desire to learn about the Company and the renewables space Excellent proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Teams Strong leadership and communication, and ability to meet deadlines Strong organization skills and ability to coordinate multiple tasks and deliverables Ability to multi‑task, while working independently and as part of a team Motivated self‑starter, goal‑oriented, and strong problem‑solving abilities Proven ability to empathize, build relationships, and effectively communicate with people from a diverse set of backgrounds Responds well to direction, is easy to challenge and develop, and is coachable Is detail‑oriented, has strong business acumen, and a sound understanding of business concepts This position is an office‑based role with some travel and visits to other RWE Americas offices and field locations Must be able to sit, walk, or stand for long durations of time Pay Range The annual base salary range for this position in Illinois is $100,000 – $110,000. The listed salary range represents our good faith estimate for this position and is a general guideline only. Benefits Offered Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short‑Term Disability, Long‑Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, Holidays, and short‑term incentives. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. RWE Americas is unable to sponsor employment visas at this time. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr RWE AG