Network Systems Engineer

Network Systems EngineerThis is a 245 day position. Pay Schedule: Grade 122 This position is for the 2026 - 2027 school year.Position SummaryUnder general supervision, responsible for the design, implementation, management, monitoring, and optimization of complex data networks and enterprise information technology (IT) infrastructure, including wired and wireless systems. Supervises assigned members of the District network support team.Minimum RequirementsEducationBachelor's Degree in computer science, information technology, engineering, or a related field preferred.Certification/LicenseRelevant network systems industry certifications preferred.Must possess a valid South Carolina driver's license or government issued picture ID.Work ExperienceThree (3) to five (5) years of professional-level experience in network engineering or systems administration with demonstrated leadership in enterprise infrastructure. Expertise in network storage systems (SAN, NAS) and backup systems. Proficient experience with VMware, Palo Alto Firewalls, Extreme/Aerohive Wireless, Dell Switching and Routing, EMC PowerProtect, and EMC Unity; or any equivalent education, training, and certification requirements that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of state and federal laws, guidelines, District policies, and compliance requirements applicable to the position.Advanced skills in TCP/IT networking, routing, switching, network design, network security and monitoring tools, cloud networking principles, server virtualization, and backup/recovery best practices.Advanced skills in scripting and automation, configuration and management, troubleshooting, operating systems, platforms documentation, and project management.Ability to effectively communicate with assigned technicians, school staff, District personnel, vendors, contractors, and related parties in oral and written form. Ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical staff, train users, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.Ability to effectively supervise subordinate staff; ability to delegate authority while maintaining accountability.Ability to anticipate work to be completed and initiate proper and acceptable direction for the completion of work with little to no supervision and instruction.Ability to apply judgment and complex logic in defining problems, collecting information, and drawing valid conclusions. Ability to use independent judgment and discretion in directing and proactively managing work activities within the scope of authority.Ability to maintain high standards of organization, accuracy, and timeliness in exercising duties.Ability to manage frequent interruptions in a flexible manner and difficult, stressful situations in a professional and appropriate fashion.Ability to work independently and as a productive member of a team.Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, continually changing work environment.Essential DutiesPlans, designs, implements, and maintains District-wide network infrastructure.Monitors network performance and security, proactively identifying and remediating issues.Manages installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of networking hardware and software.Leads projects for network upgrades and expansions, providing expertise and technical guidance to teams and stakeholders.Develops, documents, and maintains network architecture, diagrams, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance and disaster recovery readiness.Supports end users and provides advanced escalation support for technical issues, collaborating with IT staff and vendors as needed.Oversees network security, including firewall management, VPNs, intrusion detection, and vulnerability assessments.Trains District IT and building-level staff on network applications and best practices.Supervises and reviews the work of assigned staff for completeness and accuracy; evaluates and makes recommendations as appropriate; offers additional training, advice, and assistance as needed.Establishes a professional rapport with colleagues and staff that fosters their respect. Displays the highest standards for ethical and professional behavior while working school personnel, District staff, contractors, and other parties. Represents the Information Technology network systems division at various meetings as requested.Adheres to the highest standards of confidentiality concerning sensitive matters, students, and staff.Serves as a role model for others; dresses professionally; willingly accepts responsibility; and demonstrates pride in the public education profession.Demonstrates prompt, regular attendance and is available to work in-person on-site during normal business hours. District travel required on a regular basis. Available after hours to maintain the network and to implement emergency response protocols, as necessary.Willingly performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor.Physical Abilities and Working ConditionsThe physical abilities and working conditions are representative of, but not intended to be, an exhaustive list of the requirements for positions in this classification. In the event of an emergency or situation requiring guidance from Federal, State, Local, or District authorities, the requirements of this position may change to best serve the needs of our students.Vision: Ability to read small print and view a computer screen for prolonged periods of time.Hearing: Ability to tolerate exposure to noisy conditions.Speech: Ability to be understood in face-to-face communications and to speak with a level of proficiency and volume to be understood over a telephone, computer, or virtual setting.Upper Body Mobility: Ability to use hands to grasp and manipulate small objects; manipulate fingers; twist and bend at wrist and elbows; extend arms to reach outward and upward; use hands and arms to lift objects; turn, raise, and lower head.Strength: Ability to lift, push, pull and/or carry objects that weigh fifty (50) or more pounds on a frequent basis.Environmental Requirements: Ability to work independently; work cooperatively with others; work indoors; work outdoors as necessary for the position.Mental Requirements: Ability to read, write, understand, interpret, and apply information on a moderately complex level essential for successful job performance; math skills at a proficiency level appropriate to the position; sound judgment; the ability to process information quickly; learn quickly and follow verbal procedures and standards; give verbal instruction; rank tasks in order of importance; copy, compare, compile and coordinate information and records. Understands and adequately manages stressful situations.Additional Work Conditions and Physical Abilities: District travel required on a regular basis.Reliable transportation required.Richland School District Two is committed to providing equal access to educational and employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, pregnancy, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity status, spousal affiliation, or any other protected characteristic, as may be required by law. As required by Title IX and its implementing regulations, 34 C.F.R. Part 106, Richland School District Two does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its educational programs and activities. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties.This job description is intended to accurately reflect the duties, responsibilities, and requirements of the position. It is not intended to be, nor construed to be, an all-inclusive list of the knowledge, skills, abilities, essential duties, physical abilities and/or working conditions associated with the position. District management/administration reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary.