Network Specialist, Senior

Overview

Employment in this role is conditional upon successful execution of the contract by the client.

The Work

The Network Specialist - Senior is responsible for overseeing complex network operations, system designs, and management activities across large-scale environments. This role involves providing technical leadership, supervising multi-functional IT operations teams, and managing critical aspects of information systems. The Senior Network Specialist ensures the highest levels of system performance, stability, and security while contributing expertise to policy development, standards compliance, and budgetary considerations. This position is instrumental in supporting the operations and strategic initiatives of the organization’s IT infrastructure.

This position aligns with Cayuse's core values of Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Adaptability, and Integrity by fostering technical solutions that meet customer needs, promoting teamwork, and prioritizing quality in deliverables.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Provide senior-level technical guidance and supervision for monitoring and directing information systems operations to meet organizational objectives.
• Design, build, and implement robust network systems, including LAN, MAN, and WAN infrastructures.
• Direct the compilation, analysis, and management of records and reports related to network operation and maintenance activities.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex hardware, software, and network performance issues, ensuring timely escalation and resolution.
• Plan and execute large-scale systems projects, conducting vendor evaluations, cost-benefit analyses, and system integration processes.
• Analyze network traffic data to develop capacity planning strategies, enhance performance, and ensure scalability.
• Oversee and respond to activities within technical control facilities to maintain hardware, software, and network performance.
• Lead the procurement, testing, installation, and ongoing support of networking and communications systems across diverse platforms.
• Supervise multi-functional teams involved in network operations, systems security, system software support, and production support activities in large-scale or multi-shift environments.
• Perform system-level design and configuration, including determining specifications for hardware, operating systems, and platform design.
• Ensure quality assurance and conduct comprehensive evaluations of new and existing software products to maintain operational efficiency and compliance.
• Provide oversight for all information systems operations functions, such as LAN/MAN/WAN administration, systems programming, system security policy implementation, and web strategy support.
• Monitor and test network facilities and equipment, including power systems, software, communication hardware, lines, modems, and terminals, to guarantee continuity of network operations.
• Provide input to policy-level discussions on standards, operational requirements, and budget constraints for network systems and support facilities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Qualifications – Here's What You Need

• Experience: Minimum of 7 years in network engineering, systems design, operations management, and team leadership in large-scale networking environments.
• Certifications (Required):
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
  • Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP)
  • Cisco Certified Security Professional (CCSP)
  • Cisco Certified Internetwork Professional (CCIP)
  • CompTIA Security+
• Expertise in advanced network engineering principles, including routing, switching, security, and system architecture.
• In-depth knowledge of network operations and systems engineering practices, including systems integration and multi-platform environments.
• Proven ability to supervise multi-functional technical teams and manage multiple, large-scale projects under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing system security policies, operations support, and administration.
• Skilled in policy formulation, resource allocation, and resolution of budgetary issues to optimize IT systems performance.
• Proficiency in capacity planning, network traffic analysis, and resolving complex system-wide network issues.
• Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to achieve mission success.
• Familiarity with network diagnostics and testing tools to monitor and maintain equipment, software, and systems integrity.
• A Top-Secret Security Clearance is required.
• Must be able to pass a background check. May require additional background checks as required by projects and/or clients at any time during employment.

Minimum Skills:

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate in a clear, professional, and articulate manner.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high-level attention to detail.
• Proven ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast past environment with changing priorities; adaptable to change and a quick learner.
• Must be self-motivated and able to work well independently as well as on a multi-functional team.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately
• Proficient in MS Office, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• High-pressure decision-making during network outages and during critical project deadlines may require strong problem-solving capabilities and stress management skills.

Our Commitment to you / overview of benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance; Wellness Program.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter).
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability options.
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (Company Provided).
• Voluntary Life and AD&D options.
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with matching after one year.
• Paid Time Off.

Reports to: Program Manager

Working Conditions

• Professional office environment, with the ability to work onsite in the main office.
• May require lifting and carrying computer or networking equipment (e.g., servers and routers) weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent use of tools, cables, and other equipment to perform installations and repairs.
• Ability to move around technical spaces, such as server rooms or data centers, which may involve bending, kneeling, or climbing ladders.
• Must be physically and mentally able to perform duties extended periods of time.
• Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed to meet the demands of this position.
• May require working in high-security areas under strict access controls due to sensitive information or classified materials.
• Compliance with security clearances and monitoring systems is mandatory.
• Must be able to establish a productive and professional workspace.
• Must be able to sit for long periods of time looking at computer screen.
• May be asked to work a flexible schedule which may include holidays.
• May be asked to travel for business or professional development purposes.
• May be asked to work hours outside of normal business hours.

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Cayuse is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, skills, and abilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment in accordance with any applicable federal, state, or local law.