Network Engineer

Under general supervision, installs, supports, monitors, and maintains components of the County’s network and information systems infrastructure, with an emphasis on network security. Coordinates and supports the operation of network environments, including LANs, WANs, and related telecommunications systems such as routers, switches, firewalls, wireless systems, servers, and VPNs. Implements and maintains security measures to protect systems and data; performs advanced troubleshooting; monitors performance; and ensures reliable, secure connectivity for County departments. Participates in infrastructure projects, capacity planning, and disaster recovery efforts, and evaluates new technologies and system updates. Performs related duties as assigned. Distinguishing Characteristics This classification focuses on supporting, maintaining, and enhancing the County’s network infrastructure rather than leading large-scale enterprise design. Incumbents are responsible for the configuration, operation, maintenance, and security of network systems and services, including routing, switching, firewalls, VPNs, DNS, directory services, and intrusion detection systems. This is the journey-level classification, with responsibility for network operations, performance, and security. Incumbents may lead projects, provide technical guidance, and collaborate with vendors and departments. Work is performed under the direction of an Information Technology Manager. Incumbents may provide lead work and training to subordinate personnel. Duties include but are not limited to those described below. Reasonable accommodation will be made when requested and determined by the County to be appropriate under applicable law. Install, configure, maintain, and support network infrastructure (LAN/WAN, wireless, routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs). Monitor network performance, availability, and security; respond to alerts and outages. Troubleshoot complex network and connectivity issues. Administer network services (e.g., DNS, DHCP, Active Directory, remote access). Implement and maintain security systems; investigate incidents and vulnerabilities. Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and security standards. Perform capacity planning, performance tuning, and network analysis. Plan and implement upgrades, patches, and infrastructure improvements. Maintain technical documentation (diagrams, configurations, inventories). Provide technical support and document incidents and resolutions. Support disaster recovery, backups, and system restoration. Evaluate and recommend new technologies and solutions. Collaborate with staff, vendors, and departments on projects. Train staff on network operations and security practices. Participate in on-call and after-hours support as needed. Perform other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Education: Associate’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Networking, Computer Science, or a related field (Additional experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.) Experience: Three (3) to four (4) years of progressively responsible experience supporting network infrastructure. This should include experience configuring and supporting network equipment (routers, switches, firewalls), network monitoring and troubleshooting tools, implementing or supporting network security technologies and practices. Special Requirements Ability to respond on short notice in person or by verbal communication to emergency or critical security incidents after working hours, including weekends and holidays, and work irregular hours as necessary. Possess and maintain a valid, appropriate California driver’s license issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Travel within and outside of the County as necessary. Qualify for security clearance through a background investigation and fingerprint check. Desirable Qualifications Experience with Cisco or similar network environments. Experience with firewall platforms (e.g., Fortinet). Experience with Windows Server and virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware). Experience supporting wireless networks. Relevant certifications (e.g., CCNA/CCNP, MCSE, Linux/Unix certifications). Knowledge of LAN/WAN networking concepts, including TCP/IP, routing, switching, and wireless systems; network security technologies and practices (firewalls, VPNs, IDS, authentication, monitoring, compliance); network infrastructure and telecommunications systems (e.g., T1, DS3, VoIP, public interconnections); network monitoring, troubleshooting tools, and performance analysis methods; windows and Linux/Unix server environments and client-server architectures; system security, compliance standards, and enforcement practices; project management, system lifecycle processes, and technical documentation; disaster recovery, backup procedures, and business continuity planning; customer service practices and technical support processes; applicable laws, regulations, and standards. Ability to Design, implement, and maintain secure and reliable network systems; troubleshoot complex network and system issues; configure and support network equipment (routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs); monitor performance and security; identify and resolve vulnerabilities; evaluate and apply new technologies; communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences; manage multiple priorities and projects; prepare clear documentation and reports; work independently and collaboratively; maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment; provide effective customer service and maintain professional relationships. Physical Requirements/Work Environment Work is performed primarily in an office environment including sitting at a desk working with computer equipment for prolonged periods, and travel for work purposes and occasionally works outdoors with exposure to varying weather extremes and uneven terrain; hear and communicate orally in person, on the phone and in meetings; hand/eye coordination for use of computer/office equipment and performing ergonomics assessments; visual ability to distinguish colors; regularly working with files and general office equipment; safely operate a motor vehicle. Light to moderate lifting and carrying of files; occasionally stand and walk for extended periods. Disaster Service Workers All San Benito County employees are designated “Disaster Service Workers” through state and local laws (CA Government Code Sec. 3100-3109 and Emergency Services Chapter 6 via adoption of local Ordinance No. 361 § 1, 2-25-75). As Disaster Service Workers, all County employees are expected to remain at work, or to report for work as soon as practicable, following significant emergency or disaster. #J-18808-Ljbffr