Network Engineer

Connection has a fantastic opportunity through our Technical Staffing division for a Senior Network Infrastructure Engineer in Nashville, TN. This is a hybrid model, requiring onsite 4 days a week.  This is a long term contract opportunity with a potential of full time, we are offering  great benefits.

The Senior Network Infrastructure Engineer is responsible for the design, configuration, and maintenance of enterprise data networks. This role involves leading efforts in deploying and managing network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, and wireless access points. Additionally, the engineer will configure, install, and troubleshoot phone systems, hosted VoIP solutions, and Microsoft Azure environments. Ensuring network performance, reliability, and security is a key focus, along with maintaining up-to-date documentation and network standards. The role also provides Tier 3 escalation support and mentorship to junior engineers.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, configure, install, and maintain enterprise network infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with organizational standards.
• Develop and maintain network documentation, including network maps, configurations, and operational procedures.
• Perform firmware updates, patch management, and scheduled upgrades to maintain a secure and efficient network environment.
• Troubleshoot network issues using diagnostic tools, trace fiber and CAT6 cabling across multiple IDF closets, and document hardware changes.
• Implement and integrate emerging technologies, including VoIP and wireless networking, to enhance business operations.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers, delegating tasks and assisting with complex troubleshooting efforts.
• Ensure high availability and performance of network solutions to meet business requirements while maintaining security best practices.
• Communicate technical concepts effectively with business units, ensuring alignment between IT solutions and organizational goals.
• Maintain compliance with security protocols by updating network hardware in accordance with NIST standards to mitigate vulnerabilities.
• Conduct network baselining and document data flows for enterprise applications to enhance operational efficiency.
• Identify and document potential network issues, develop resolution plans, and lead implementation efforts.
• Manage project workflows following program management methodologies, serving as the primary lead on medium to large-scale network design and implementation projects.
• Oversee problem and request ticket management, ensuring the availability and support of critical network technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field from an accredited institution. Additional experience may be considered in place of education on a year-for-year basis.
• Minimum of six years of relevant experience in network engineering.
• Cisco CCNP certification is required.
• Strong expertise in networking technologies, including Microsoft Azure, LAN/MAN/WAN topologies, VLANs, Switch Trunking Protocol, Virtual Port Channels (VPC), network subnetting, OSPF, BGP, Access Lists, Load Balancers, Wireshark, Orion SolarWinds, NetScout nGenius, NAC/802.1x, Spanning Tree, and QoS policies.
• Experience with wireless network solutions, including Extreme Wireless Controllers and Access Points.
• Familiarity with DNS/DHCP management, including BlueCat DNS and Microsoft DHCP.
• Preferred experience with network hardware/software platforms, including FortiNAC, Cisco Nexus (NX-OS) switches, HP/Aruba ClearPass, HP/Aruba 2900/2600/5400 series switches, Cisco 9200/9300 series switches, and Zero Trust security frameworks.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Travel within the U.S. as required.