Network Engineer I

Network Engineer I

The Network Engineer I is an entry-level professional position responsible for supporting the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of the University of Texas at Dallas enterprise network infrastructure. This role works under the guidance of senior network engineers and management to ensure reliable, secure, and high-performing wired and wireless network services that support the academic, research, and administrative missions of the university. This position emphasizes technical skill development, mentorship, and progressive responsibility within a collaborative environment.

Minimum Education and Experience: Associate's degree or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be considered.

Preferred Education and Experience: Foundational knowledge of networking concepts, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, and basic routing. Familiarity with enterprise networking environments and network-connected systems. Basic understanding of wired and wireless networking principles. Ability to follow technical documentation, procedures, and change management processes. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a technical team. Customer service–oriented approach when supporting faculty, staff, and students. Willingness to learn about modern technologies and accept guidance from senior staff.

Preferred Education: Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with Juniper network equipment or Juniper Junos OS. Entry-level networking certification (e.g., Juniper JNCIA or equivalent), or willingness to obtain after hire. Exposure to network monitoring or management tools. Introductory experience with scripting or automation (e.g., Python or PowerShell). Experience working in a higher education or large enterprise IT environment.

Other Qualifications: To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Monitor enterprise network performance and availability using established network management and monitoring tools. Respond to service requests and incident tickets related to wired and wireless network connectivity. Perform basic troubleshooting of network issues, including physical connectivity, switching, and IP-related problems. Aid with the installation, configuration, and maintenance of network equipment such as switches, wireless access points, and related infrastructure. Escalate complex technical issues to senior engineers following established procedures. Maintain accurate documentation, including network diagrams, configurations, and asset records. Participate in scheduled maintenance activities and approved change management processes. Collaborate with other Office of Information Technology teams to support cross-functional IT services. Follow university policies, security standards, and operational best practices. Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and institutional goals.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Position requires on-site work to support physical network infrastructure. Occasional after-hours or weekend work may be required to support scheduled maintenance or operational needs. Participation in an on-call rotation will be required after completion of onboarding and training. Standard office environment with occasional work in data closets or equipment rooms.

Reporting Relationship: This position reports to the Director of Enterprise Networking Services within the Office of Information Technology and works as part of the Enterprise Networking Services team.

Career Development: The Network Engineer I position is designed as an entry-level role with opportunities for professional growth. Advancement may include progression to Network Engineer II and higher-level engineering roles based on performance, skill development, and organizational needs.

Remote Work Eligibility Statement: Hybrid Remote Work Available for Texas Residents.

Other Requirements: Valid Texas Driver's License required with an acceptable driving record. This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship now or in the future.

Special Instructions Summary: Important Message: 1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public. 2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.

Applicant Documents

Required Documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter/Letter of Application

Optional Documents:

• Veteran Employment Preference - Form DD-214