Network Engineer

Network Engineer (Contract) Location: Middletown, OH (100% Onsite) Contract Length: 6 Months Pay Rate: $40-$60/hour (based on experience) Overview We are seeking a hands‑on Network Engineer to support critical network infrastructure refresh initiatives within a manufacturing environment. The role focuses on replacing end‑of‑life network equipment, deploying new Cisco infrastructure, and ensuring reliable connectivity across operational sites. What You’ll Be Doing Support network lifecycle refresh projects, including replacement of end‑of‑life Cisco switching infrastructure Configure, stage, install, and validate network equipment including switches, routers, and wireless access points Execute pre‑cutover, cutover, and post‑cutover activities to ensure seamless network transitions Perform rack‑and‑stack installations, cabling, equipment replacement, and hardware troubleshooting Validate connectivity and network performance following deployments Coordinate with local operations teams and remote network engineering resources Troubleshoot network issues and support break/fix activities as needed Assist with moves, adds, changes, and ongoing infrastructure maintenance Travel to nearby facilities on occasion to support project deployments Required Skills & Experience Cisco switch installation, replacement, and configuration Experience supporting network lifecycle or end‑of‑life refresh projects Ability to execute projects from pre‑cutover through installation and validation Strong ability to work independently and manage deployment tasks with minimal supervision Technical Qualifications 4+ years of network engineering or network infrastructure experience Hands‑on experience with Cisco switching environments Strong understanding of TCP/IP, LAN/WAN networking, VLANs, Layer 2/Layer 3 switching concepts Experience installing and troubleshooting copper and fiber cabling Ability to work in IDF/MDF closets and industrial environments Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills Nice‑to‑Have Skills Cisco ISE SolarWinds Network documentation using Visio Experience working in manufacturing, industrial, or plant environments Experience with network access control technologies Technologies You'll Work With Cisco Catalyst 9000 Series Switches Cisco Industrial Ethernet (IE) Switches (3100, 3200, 3300, 3400/3500 Series) Routers, Wireless Access Points, Voice Gateways, UPS Devices Work Environment 100% onsite in Middletown, OH Manufacturing and plant‑floor environment Work may involve exposure to noise, dust, and industrial conditions PPE required (safety glasses, steel‑toed boots, etc.) Occasional travel to nearby facilities may be required Flexible schedule and willingness to adapt to changing deployment priorities preferred Benefits Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital coverage 401(k) Retirement Plan – pre‑tax and Roth contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for employee and dependents) Short and long‑term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on July 10, 2026. Equal Opportunity The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. Legal San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector Law: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools. #J-18808-Ljbffr