Core Network Administrator II

Job Description

PURPOSE OF POSITION:
GCI's Core Network Administrator II provides expert-level support for local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), and internet-based systems. Involve operational monitoring, proactive support, detailed analysis, and systems administration, ensuring the continued optimal performance of the organization's networks. Responsibilities include maintaining, securing, and configuring network systems and applications to safeguard against vulnerabilities and ensure seamless connectivity. Accountable for the configuration, troubleshooting, security, and performance optimization of data communications hardware and software components.

Requires close coordination, testing, troubleshooting, upgrading, and maintenance of the network infrastructure to ensure high availability and minimal downtime. Additionally, supports the company's IP and core route/switch network environment, overseeing the operational integrity of core IP, MPLS, carrier Ethernet, and Data/IP network systems. Responsibilities extend to providing expert technical support for incident resolution, ranging from complete service outages to chronic intermittent issues that reduce network performance, all while ensuring compliance with established design criteria and quality objectives.

Focus Scope of work could be:
•   Core Network: Focus on the foundational infrastructure supporting the organization's entire network, ensuring stability, security, and optimal performance.
•  Key Responsibilities:
•  Oversee the software updates and patching of network components, ensuring the continuous security and functionality of systems.
•  Test and validate the high availability of services and network infrastructure, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal performance.
•  Secure device access and address vulnerabilities by implementing and maintaining best practices for network security.
•  Driving network optimization efforts to improve performance, scalability, and reliability.
•  Facilitate regular device backups to ensure data integrity and disaster recovery readiness.
•  Provide physical equipment support for break/fix activities, ensuring timely resolution of hardware issues.
•  Conduct project delivery Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC), ensuring that implementations meet established standards and requirements.
•  Key Activities:
•  Analyze and monitor new software and firmware releases for network equipment and firewalls, preparing them for integration into the network.
•  Conduct verification and testing of new software and patch implementations in a controlled lab environment prior to deployment.
•  Plan, schedule, and execute the software and firmware upgrade/patch process, minimizing operational disruption.
•  Review and analyze the effectiveness of implemented network and service redundancy designs, including planning and validating redundancy testing and analyzing test outcomes.
•  Verify, modify, and update security configurations for network devices and firewalls, ensuring compliance with security protocols.
•  Identify, investigate, and resolve any discovered security vulnerabilities in a timely manner.
•  Drive the identification and implementation of network and equipment optimizations to ensure peak performance.
•  Configure and manage device configuration backups, ensuring they are consistently up-to-date and accessible.
•  Support the Situation Management Center by providing physical and on-site break/fix support as needed.
•  Contribute to QA/QC processes for new project implementations, ensuring they meet organizational standards and technical specifications.
•  Technical Knowledge & Expertise:
•  In-depth knowledge of IP/MPLS routers and switches, including vendors such as Nokia, Cisco, Juniper, Brocade, and others.
•  Expertise in network firewalls (Palo Alto, Cisco, Checkpoint) with a focus on configuration and security.
•  Proficiency with Wireless LAN Controllers (WLCs), Meraki, and WAN Optimization (WAAS) technologies.
•  Fundamental understanding of DOCSIS and EPON systems, with the ability to support and troubleshoot related infrastructure.
•  Expertise in physical connectivity, including troubleshooting Ethernet electrical and fiber optic connections.
•  Comprehensive understanding of IPv4 and IPv6, including address structures, IP protocols, and IP routing (e.g., IS-IS, BGP), as well as the configuration and management of router and switch components.
•  Strong understanding of standard network service architectures, including MPLS VPNs, VPRNs, VRFs, IESs, VPLSs, and Pseudo wire technologies.
•  Proficient in network access control and security protocols, including Radius, LDAP, AAA, and TACACS+. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES AT ALL LEVELS:
•   Platform Growth & Support: Lead project work focused on expanding and supporting network platforms, ensuring scalability and futureproofing.
•   Change Management: Develop and implement comprehensive change management plans to ensure smooth transitions and minimal disruptions during updates and changes.
•   Configuration & Troubleshooting: Configure, optimize, and troubleshoot Nokia, Cisco, Brocade, and Juniper IP/MPLS routers and switches, ARRIS Cable Modem Termination Systems, and Palo Alto Networks firewalls, ensuring efficient network performance.
•   Independent & Team Collaboration: Work independently or as part of a team with minimal supervision, taking primary responsibility for supporting multiple network platforms and ensuring operational success.
•   Network Resource Management: Efficiently manage network resources, ensuring optimal allocation and utilization to meet business and operational needs.
•   Facilities Utilization & Performance: Regularly review network facilities utilization and performance, ensuring resources are aligned with demand and efficiency goals.
•   Documentation Creation & Auditing: Develop and audit comprehensive network and systems documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance with internal standards.
•   Inventory Tracking & Maintenance: Oversee inventory tracking and maintenance, providing regular reports to ensure network elements are aligned with their expected lifecycle and performance standards.
•   Support for Junior Technicians: Provide guidance and support to junior technicians and Tier I teams, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment.
•   Operational Checks & Preventative Maintenance: Perform daily operational checks and preventative maintenance on all associated equipment to prevent issues and ensure smooth operations.
•   Statistical Reporting & Analysis: Compile and generate detailed traffic and performance reports, including bandwidth usage, while identifying and addressing bottlenecks in associated IP links.
•   System Upgrades: Take responsibility for executing system software and hardware upgrades in collaboration with the engineering team, ensuring the network remains up-to-date and efficient.
•   Cross Departmental Collaboration: Work closely with engineers and various company business groups to resolve issues affecting customers, ensuring adherence to network SLAs and customer satisfaction.
•   Parts & Materials Management: Track repair parts and materials according to established procedures, ensuring timely availability and accurate inventory management.
•   LAN, WAN, & Internet Systems Management: Install, configure, and provide ongoing support for the company's LAN, WAN, and internet systems, or specific segments of the network.
•   Network Availability Monitoring: Continuously monitor network performance to ensure availability for all system users, performing necessary maintenance to support uninterrupted service.
•   Site Performance Monitoring: Monitor and test site performance to ensure optimal operation without interruptions, addressing issues promptly to maintain service quality.
•   Network Modeling, Analysis, & Coordination: Support in-network modeling, analysis, and planning efforts, ensuring seamless integration between network hardware and software.
•   Network Security Administration: Administer and implement network security measures, ensuring the protection of data and compliance with industry best practices. COMPETENCIES:
•  ACCOUNTABILITY- Takes ownership for actions, decisions, and results; openly accepts feedback and demonstrates a willingness to improve.
•  BASIC PRINCIPLES - Interacts with people in a way that builds mutual trust, confidence, and respect; adheres to GCI's Code of Conduct for Employees - the Basic Principles.
•  COLLABORATION - Works effectively with others to accomplish common goals and objectives; maintains positive relationships even under difficult circumstances.
•  COMMUNICATION- Conveys thoughts and expresses ideas appropriately and professionally.
•  Must be able to handle moderate levels of stress while demonstrating excellent interpersonal and professional interaction skills with customers and other employees.
•  COMPLIANCE - Follows internal controls; protects confidential information; abides by GCI's Code of Business Conduct & Ethics.
•  CUSTOMER FOCUS - Demonstrates commitment to service excellence; gives high priority to customer satisfaction click apply for full job details