Network Engineer

Job Title: Network Engineer Job Location: Billings, MT Department: Network Operations Reports to: VP Network Operations Employment Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Job Overview Vision Net, Montana’s state-wide fiber optic network and premier data center provider, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Network Engineer to join our dynamic Network Operations team. In this role, you will play a critical part in design, implementation, and maintenance of our robust photonics, routed & switching network infrastructure, and outside plant (OSP) facilities. This position demands excellent communication skills, sharp attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the telecommunications industry. The ideal candidate brings a proactive mindset, a positive attitude and the ability to ensure seamless network operations while optimizing performance and reliability. Essential Job Duties and Key Responsibilities Leadership: Provide visionary leadership and executive guidance on network architecture and cloud integration through detailed road maps and reference architectures. Design and Implementation: Design, implement, and manage complex network solutions, focusing heavily on fiber optic networks, optical transport, and core routing/switching devices. Performance Optimization: Proactively monitor network performance metrics and implement engineering strategies to guarantee optimal uptime and reliability. Strategic Planning: Contribute to the strategic planning of network technologies and processes, making informed decisions to enhance long‑term network efficiency and security. Innovation and Growth: Champion cloud native transformation and drive automation through AI‑assisted network tools to drive business growth and improve operational efficiency. Industry Awareness: Stay current on industry trends, emerging technologies (such as automation and next‑gen optical), and best practices to continuously modernize network infrastructure and security. Collaboration: Collaborate with other departments and external stakeholders to design and deploy network solutions tailored to organizational and customer requirements. Tier‑3 Support: Provide Tier‑3 troubleshooting escalation assistance to the Network Operations Center (NOC). Additional Job Duties and Responsibilities Perform other duties and responsibilities as required or assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Experience: 10+ years of proven experience in telecom or service provider network engineering. Technical Domain Expertise: Lead the design and evolution of IP/MPLS and photonics / optical transport networks (DWDM/OTN). Solid understanding of Outside Plant (OSP) facilities, fiber splicing, and path engineering. Proficiency in carrier‑grade routing and switching protocols (BGP, OSPF, MPLS, Segment Routing). Education: Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. Certification: Relevant industry certifications required (CCNP/CCIE, JNCIP/JNCIE, MEF, or OEM vendor certifications). Core Skills: Strong problem‑solving abilities with a history of diagnosing and resolving complex network issues efficiently. Proficiency in networking strategy and integration planning. Professional Attributes: Initiative‑taking, goal‑oriented, and able to work independently with minimal supervision. Demonstrates a strong work ethic and collaborative attitude. Travel Requirements: Ability to travel as needed for site visits, client meetings, and industry events. Any combination of the above requirements or equivalent education will be considered Working Conditions Full‑time, rotating shifts (weekends, evenings, overnights, holidays). Rotating On‑Call duty may also be required. In‑state travel and overnights as needed. Sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Occasional outdoors work in adverse weather conditions. Occasional confined spaces conditions. Reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities will be made. Benefits Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including top‑tier health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off. Professional Growth: We invest in your future with professional development and training opportunities. Innovative Technology: Work with the latest advancements in optical networking technologies. Additional Information This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. An employee will also perform other related business duties as assigned. Vision Net reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr