Network Engineer - Columbia College

Columbia College Chicago is an acclaimed undergraduate and graduate institution that provides a comprehensive education in the arts, communications and public relations. We constantly aim to reach our full potential as an educational innovator, incubator of new creative practice and generator of real-world success for young creatives. We are in the heart of Chicago, across the street from historic Grant Park, and housed in some of the most iconic buildings in the South Loop.

 Columbia College Chicago a private urban institution of over 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students, four-year College offering a distinctive curriculum that blends liberal arts, creative and media arts and business is currently searching for a Network Engineer.

 POSITION SUMMARY

The Network Engineer role encompasses the comprehensive management of large-scale networking infrastructure, focusing on the deployment and maintenance of Juniper switches and routers, Palo Alto firewalls, and Aruba wireless systems. This dynamic position involves designing and implementing robust network solutions, ensuring optimal configuration, and overseeing the seamless operation of all network components. The engineer will collaborate closely with the Network Manager to align network architecture with organizational objectives, guaranteeing high availability and security of the network services. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of network technologies and a proven track record in managing complex network environments.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, configure, and deploy network infrastructure using Juniper switches and routers to ensure efficient and secure data transmission.
• Implement and manage Palo Alto firewalls to protect network systems from cyber threats and unauthorized access.
• Administer Aruba wireless networks, ensuring optimal coverage, performance, and security for wireless communications.
• Administer Mitel VoIP, MiCollab softphones, and perform adds, moves, and changes as required to ensure compliance with City of Chicago OEMC E911 quidelines.
• Manage F5 BigIP devices for load balancing, ensuring optimal distribution of network traffic and service availability.
• Conduct regular network performance tests and analyze results to identify areas for improvement in speed, efficiency, and reliability.
• Collaborate with IT security teams to develop and enforce network security policies and procedures.
• Troubleshoot complex network issues involving various hardware and software components, providing timely and accurate resolutions.
• Monitor network health using management tools and respond proactively to alerts and events that may impact network performance.
• Keep abreast of the latest developments in network technologies and security trends to recommend upgrades and enhancements.
• Document network configurations, changes, and standard operating procedures to maintain an accurate record of the network architecture.
• Provide technical guidance and support to other IT staff and end-users regarding network-related inquiries and issues.
• Coordinate with vendors and service providers to ensure service level agreements (SLAs) are met and to resolve any equipment or service issues.
• Manage IP address allocation and perform subnetting as required to optimize network segmentation and performance.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements related to network infrastructure and security.
• Perform other related duties and/or responsibilities as assigned or required. 

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Relevant certifications such as JNCIA/JNCIS (Juniper Networks Certified Associate/Specialist), PCNSE (Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer), ACMA/ACMP (Aruba Certified Mobility Associate/Professional), and F5-CA (F5 Certified Administrator) are highly desirable.
• Proficient in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting Juniper switches and routers.
• Skilled in the deployment and maintenance of Palo Alto firewalls, including policy configuration and threat prevention.
• Experienced with Aruba wireless infrastructure, including access points, controllers, and ClearPass for network security.
• Knowledgeable in load balancing and traffic management using F5 BigIP solutions.
• A minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in a network engineering role.
• Proven track record of successful network design and implementation projects.
• Experience in a multi-vendor network environment is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and manage time effectively.
• Familiarity with network monitoring and analysis tools.
• Understanding of network security principles and best practices.
• Willingness to participate in on-call rotations and provide after-hours support as needed.
• Commitment to staying current with the latest technologies and advancements in network engineering.
• Engagement in ongoing education and professional development opportunities.
• Must be able to get around between various buildings on-campus daily.
• Ability to bend, squat, crawl or climb 75-95% of the time and lift up to 50 pounds.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee and is subject to change based on the needs of the department and/or college.

 At Columbia, we offer a rewarding work environment for our faculty and staff. We take pride in offering competitive benefits with affordable health, dental and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; commuter benefit program, life, and accidental, death & dismemberment coverage; paid and unpaid leave options; work/life benefits; educational assistance programs; and retirement and financial planning benefits. 

 We invite you to join our talented faculty and staff and become part of our collective aspiration to ensure Columbia prepares students for success in their creative fields through innovation, engagement, and real-world experiences. 

Additional Information

• Position subject to a background screening
• This is a non-union position
• This position is overtime ineligible

Qualified candidates of diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Columbia College Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations concerning civil rights. The college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.