Network Engineer (MIS/IT 5)

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Manager, Infrastructure Operations, the Network Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, implementing, maintaining and supporting scalable and highly available network architectures/communication networks that support the operations of the AGD. 

The incumbent monitors and maintains network performance, as well as configures switches and network appliances for optimal performance and troubleshooting network problems. He/she will also be responsible for maintaining all Voice Over IP (VOIP) infrastructure, identifying and defining network related requirements to ensure consistency in the reliability, performance and quality of network systems.

Summary of the broad purpose of the position in relation to Government’s goals and strategies: 

• To establish a reliable networking environment by ensuring that connecting nodes within the network are performing optimally; 
• To maximize network efficiency by monitoring performance; troubleshooting network problems and outages; scheduling upgrades; collaborating with Network Architects on network optimization; 
• To secure network systems by establishing and enforcing policies and defining and monitoring access; 
• To report network operational status. 

Key Responsibilities

Technical: 

• Configures and installs network devices (e.g., routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers);
• Assesses system requirements and designs Local and Wide Area Network Infrastructure;
• Designs, develops and implements safe, effective and reliable communication networks. 
• Ensures network connectivity of all servers, workstations, telephone equipment and other network equipment; 
• Ensures bandwidth availability for application systems; 
• Selects and implements security tools, policies and procedures in conjunction with the Company’s Security Team; 
• Ensures that security levels are adhered to based on security policy and guidelines;
• Performs network maintenance and system upgrades, including service packs, patches, hot fixes and security configurations; 
• Monitors network performance and troubleshoots problem areas as needed;
• Monitors and tests network performance and provides and analyzes network performance statistics and reports to ensure system availability and reliability; 
• Provides Level-2/3 support and troubleshoots to resolve issues; 
• Liaises with vendors and other IT personnel for problem resolution; 
• Liaises with vendors of various Information Technology systems in determining relevant technologies and their suitability; 
• Assists in the technical evaluation of bids from vendors/contractors for the supply and/or installation of products and/or services; 
• Liaises with contractors for the proper installation and servicing of communication networks; 
• Monitors and manages the implementation activities of vendors/suppliers;
• Tests network systems to ensure that a quality solution is accepted; 
• Conducts research on technology trends and submits reports and recommendations on significant findings for follow-up evaluation; 
• Monitors and captures relevant network statistics and resource utilisation using available tools; 
• Monitors network utilisation trends; 
• Prepares Capacity Plans based on network trends; 
• Builds and maintains relationships with all internal Units; 
• Works together with other Units and Divisions within the Organization to identify any process improvements and improve standards, efficiency and effectiveness;
• Ensures awareness, approval and success of changes made to the network infrastructure, to include documentation and training; 
• Prepares periodic reports as required; 
• Signs Job Description and Individual Work Plans; 
• Performs any other related duties that may be required from time to time. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Core: 

• Good oral and written communication skills; 
• Good problem-solving and analytical skills; 
• Good customer focus skills; 
• Results Focus; 
• Integrity. 

Technical: 

• Good knowledge of Information Technology Principles; 
• Good knowledge of Legislations, Policies and Procedures; 
• Demonstrated ability to apply technology solutions to business problems;
• Deep understanding of networking protocols;
• Hands-on experience with monitoring, network diagnostic and network analytics tools;
• Experience in Data Centre Operations, telecommunications, network engineering, client/server computing, and production operations support; 
• A deep understanding of the interdependent relationship between infrastructure, information security and the applications/services they enable, as well as the criticality of maintaining strong connections between the respective teams within IT; 
• Excellent understanding of multi-disciplinary nature of IT solutions; 
• Ability to see the "big picture" across such areas as private and public hosted infrastructure and services, identity management, security, telecommunications, enterprise storage, end user experience, and training/education; 
• Sound understanding of Project Management principles and their application to Infrastructure Projects and Teams. 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science OR equivalent from a recognized tertiary institution; 
• Training in Network and Systems Management; 
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or equivalent certification in Network design and troubleshooting; 
• Four (4) years’ experience, in Network Engineering or a related technical IT position;
• Proven experience in technology enhancement and vendor management;
• Experience in WAN/LAN design, configuration and maintenance; 
• Experience in related IT disciplines such as data management, network administration and outsourced systems. 

Special Conditions Associated with the Job

• Working under pressure with numerous critical deadlines.

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.