Global Network Engineer

Global Network Engineer

Position Summary

The Global Network Engineer is a senior-level position responsible for securing, optimizing, and evolving Solmax's global network infrastructure and reports to the Sr. Manager of IT Engineering. It requires deep technical expertise, a strategic mindset, and a proven track record in leading complex initiatives, hardening network security, and managing high-impact vendor relationships. Success in this role hinges on the ability to drive cross-functional efforts that span infrastructure, security, and compliance domains.

Key Responsibilities

Network Infrastructure & Operations

• Manage and support the health, performance, and availability of the global enterprise network across all Solmax locations.
• Ensure proper configuration, patching, and lifecycle management of routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, and wireless infrastructure.
• Implement system-level redundancy and failover strategies; maintain and test a documented Disaster Recovery Plan and Business Continuity Plan.
• Lead incident response efforts for network issues and drive permanent resolution strategies.
• Ensure compliance with IT change control processes, including proper documentation, risk assessments, approvals, and execution plans.

Security & Compliance

• Enforce a strong security posture across all network layers using recognized standards such as NIST and vendor best practices.
• Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate vulnerabilities across global network assets and external-facing services.
• Collaborate with Security, Compliance, and Governance teams to align network security practices with regulatory, audit, and risk management requirements.
• Oversee continuous monitoring, anomaly detection, and rapid incident response protocols to contain and remediate threats effectively.
• Ensure all external and internal connections meet enterprise security standards, including current OS versions, and applied security patches.
• Maintain documentation and evidence of network security controls to support internal and external audits.

Project & Vendor Management

• Manage external vendors handling monitoring, security, or network services. Evaluate performance and enforce SLA compliance.
• Serve as Project Manager or technical lead for network-related projects using IT's project platform (e.g., task updates, time logging, documentation).
• Coordinate with other IT team leads to drive shared initiatives across infrastructure, security, and operations.
• Maintain centralized documentation for vendor contracts, escalation paths, and contact information in SharePoint or Teams.

Service Operations

• Respond to escalated tickets related to networking issues and maintain detailed records of resolutions, time, and impact.
• Monitor all production network devices; ensure automated alerting and response workflows are in place.
• Optimize VPN access and performance globally, supporting traveling employees and remote sites.

Continuous Improvement & Strategic Planning

• Stay current with emerging technologies and methodologies; bring forward recommendations that reduce cost or improve performance.
• Identify areas for network modernization or optimization, with a focus on scalable, secure, and cost-effective solutions.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and vendors annually or as contracts expire, ensuring alignment with Solmax's strategic and technical goals.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with internal teams-including Infrastructure, Security, Applications, and Business Systems-to ensure alignment on projects and shared architecture.
• Contribute to enterprise IT planning initiatives, offering network perspectives that influence infrastructure strategy and service design.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in network engineering within enterprise or global environments.
• Strong expertise in:
• WAN, LAN, and wireless technologies
• Firewalls, switches, routers
• Technologies include (Palo Alto, FortiGate, Cisco)
• Telephony (cloud/on-prem)
• Security infrastructure and tools
• Solid experience with:
• Azure
• Microsoft technologies (Server, Active Directory)
• Monitoring and reporting systems
• Linux, mobile platforms

• Strong understanding of vendor management, documentation, ITIL-aligned service practices, and change control governance.

Preferred Certifications (a plus but not mandatory)

• CCNP, CCIE, CISSP, Azure Network Engineer Associate, or related certifications

Key Attributes for Success

• Ability to manage competing priorities and remain calm under pressure in a fast-paced, global environment.
• Strong communication skills-able to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proven leadership presence and collaborative mindset, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.
• Comfortable mentoring junior engineers and contributing to a culture of accountability and technical excellence.

Additional Details

• Work Environment: This is a hybrid position. While most work can be performed remotely, occasional travel to the local office is required for meetings, hands-on support, or incident resolution.
• Travel Requirement: Up to 10% annually, including visits to global sites and data centers.
• Team Structure: This role operates collaboratively, partnering with other IT team leads across infrastructure, applications, and cybersecurity.
• Physical Requirements:
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds during equipment installation or maintenance tasks.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and crouch when installing or troubleshooting equipment.
• Ability to climb ladders or access elevated racks using proper safety equipment.
• Ability to work in confined or low-clearance spaces, such as under desks or in server closets.