Network Administrator

Reports To: IT Infrastructure and Services Coordinator Salary: This is a full-time, 12-month position (232 days), with a minimum annual salary of $81,352.00 Summary Work independently with minimal supervision to support wide area networks (WAN), local area networks (LAN), and cybersecurity services for ESC Region 13 and constituent school systems. This position combines traditional network administration responsibilities with cybersecurity functions, including monitoring, incident response, system hardening, and providing cybersecurity guidance and training to school system personnel. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field Associate degree in a technical field and 3 years of experience in networking and cybersecurity Technical school completion and 3 years of experience in networking and cybersecurity Significant experience in networking and cybersecurity may be considered in place of formal education Additional Qualification Requirements Candidates without current CompTIA certification(s) must obtain Security+ or equivalent within a reasonable time following employment (typically within six months). Ongoing professional development is expected, including pursuit of advanced or additional certifications relevant to network administration, cybersecurity, and/or cloud infrastructure. Preferred Qualifications Relevant industry certifications such as CompTIA (Security+, Network+), CISSP (a plus), CEH (preferred), or related credentials Experience with pfSense, Palo Alto Networks (firewall policy, VPN, and security profile management), Microsoft 365 Security Center, and Google Workspace Admin/Security Tools Experience with Aruba/HP Greenlake, Cisco Meraki, and Ubiquiti Unifi platforms Familiarity with the Texas Cybersecurity Framework (preferred but not required); an in- depth understanding of cybersecurity standards such as NIST or ISO 27001 is strongly preferred Knowledge / Skills Solid understanding of TCP/IP networking, Vl.ANs, routing, switching, and VPN technologies Proficiency in firewall and content filter configuration and management (pfSense, Palo Alto preferred) Experience with l.AN/WAN design, monitoring, and troubleshooting for multi-site environments Familiarity with intrusion detection and prevention systems, DDoS mitigation, and incident response Experience supporting server administration functions for constituent school systems, including virtualization platforms such as VMware and Hyper‑V, patching, imaging, and system lifecycle management. Knowledge of M365 and Google Workspace security and identity management controls Ability to conduct cybersecurity training sessions and technical workshops for school system IT staff Strong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a regional team environment Major Responsibilities Serve as a representative of ESC Region 13, displaying courtesy, tact, consideration, and discretion in all interactions with other members of the educational community and with the public Network Administration Responsibilities Provide network support and troubleshooting to internal and external clients by phone and on‑site service Monitor WAN and l.AN network status for ESC Region 13 and constituent school systems, including benchmark performance for connectivity to multiple upstream providers Manage network routers, firewalls, switches, and content filters Configure and monitor wireless networks for on‑site and remote clients Manage equipment configurations, installations, and upgrades for WAN and l.AN environments Conduct server installations, patch management, and virtual infrastructure support Provide server administration and virtualization support for constituent school systems, including deployment, maintenance, and optimization of VMware, Hyper‑V, and similar platforms Participate in network planning, design, and capacity management for ESC Region 13 and supported school systems Create and maintain network and configuration documentation for team use Cybersecurity and Training Responsibilities Administer and monitor firewalls (Palo Alto, pfSense) and VPN connections for security and availability Implement and maintain intrusion detection/prevention systems and perform incident response activities Conduct cybersecurity risk assessments and vulnerability scans to identify and remediate security gaps Manage security settings, alerts, and compliance baselines in Microsoft 365 Security Center and Google Workspace Admin Console Support the development and alignment of cybersecurity controls with the Texas Cybersecurity Framework (TCF) and recognized standards such as NIST CSF and ISO 27001 Develop and deliver training sessions and workshops for constituent school systems on cybersecurity best practices, data protection, and incident response readiness Collaborate with technology directors and administrators across school systems to strengthen regional cybersecurity awareness and response capabilities Research emerging threats and evolving security technologies, providing proactive recommendations to improve resilience across educational environments Perform other duties as assigned Supervisory Responsibilities None Budget Responsibilities None Working Conditions Communicate effectively, both written and orally Follow policies and procedures Able to lift 50 lbs and perform equipment installation tasks Maintain emotional control under stress and manage multiple priorities Interpret and maintain technical data and documentation Work independently and as a team member Work extended hours as needed, including evenings or weekends for critical maintenance or school system support Demonstrate strong troubleshooting and analytical skills Equipment Used Phone Computer Network equipment Security appliances Virtualization platforms #J-18808-Ljbffr Education Service Center Region 13