🔌 Keep the Power Grid Running - Join a Critical Infrastructure Team
Are you a network professional who thrives in high-stakes environments where your work truly matters? We're seeking a System Administrator 2 to support mission-critical telecommunications systems that power essential infrastructure operations.
💡 Why This Role is Different
This isn't a typical IT admin position. You'll be working with cutting-edge telecommunications and network transport systems in a Control Center environment where reliability is paramount and downtime is not an option. Your expertise will directly support systems that keep critical infrastructure operational 24/7/365.
🎯 What You'll Do
Core Responsibilities:
- Network Operations & Maintenance: Provision and manage Cisco routers, switches, and advanced packet transport systems in a mission-critical environment
- Advanced Networking: Work with MPLS, Layer 2/3 protocols, VPNs, and carrier-grade transport technologies
- System Monitoring: Utilize SolarWinds and other NMS tools to proactively identify and resolve issues before they impact operations
- Project Collaboration: Partner with engineering, planning, and field teams to design, implement, and document telecommunications infrastructure
- Compliance & Security: Support NERC CIP and FISMA compliance efforts, including security documentation and system hardening
- Technical Leadership: Participate in technical workgroups, evaluate new technologies, and contribute to strategic planning
Day-to-Day Activities:
- Troubleshoot complex network issues across LAN/WAN infrastructure
- Configure and maintain authentication systems (AAA, Cisco ISE, CSACS)
- Create technical documentation, network diagrams, and training materials
- Coordinate with multiple teams to execute scheduled maintenance windows
- Develop and execute test plans for system certifications
- Respond to urgent operational needs with professionalism under pressure
🏆 What Makes You a Great Fit
Required Qualifications:
Education & Experience:
- 3+ years with an Associate/Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related field
- OR 5+ years of relevant experience without a degree
- Direct hands-on experience in IT system administration and networking
Technical Expertise:
- ✅ Core Networking: TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, DHCP, FTP/SFTP
- ✅ Advanced Layer 2: Spanning Tree, VLANs, QinQ, Link Aggregation
- ✅ Advanced Layer 3: MPLS, LDP, RSVP, L2VPN (VPLS/VPWS), L3VPN
- ✅ Hands-on Experience: Cisco router/switch configuration and troubleshooting
- ✅ Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills and systematic troubleshooting approach
Professional Skills:
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Excellent time management and prioritization in fast-paced environments
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Team collaboration across organizational boundaries
- Meticulous attention to detail and documentation
Preferred Qualifications (Stand Out from the Crowd):
Certifications:
- 🏅 Cisco: CCNA, CCNP (especially CCNP Security)
- 🏅 Nokia: NRS1, NRS2
- 🏅 Linux: LPIC-1, RHCSA, CompTIA Linux+
- 🏅 Microsoft: Windows Server certifications
- 🏅 Database: Oracle certifications
Specialized Experience:
- Telecommunications transport systems and carrier Ethernet technology
- Network Operations Center (NOC) environments
- NERC CIP and/or FISMA compliance frameworks
- Linux system administration
- Virtual Private Networks and router encryption
- SolarWinds or similar network management systems
- IP/MPLS transport networks
- Critical infrastructure or utility industry background
🚀 Ready to Apply?
If you're a networking professional who:
- ✓ Has deep technical knowledge of routing, switching, and transport systems
- ✓ Thrives in environments where reliability and uptime are critical
- ✓ Enjoys both hands-on technical work and collaborative projects
- ✓ Wants to work on infrastructure that truly matters
Note: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain appropriate security clearances and may be subject to background investigations.
Job Type: Long-term contract, 40 hrs/week
Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-5+ years)
Education: Associate/Bachelor's Degree Preferred
Certifications: CCNA/CCNP or equivalent strongly preferred
