Seeking to hire a new Telecommunications Network Specialist III to analyze, design, configure, install, deploy and troubleshoot LAN, WAN, Campus networks (mainly Cisco routers, switches, firewalls), associated wireless infrastructure (Extreme, Meraki), VOIP solutions (CUCM, SIP trunks, UCaaS), System Monitoring (SolarWinds NPM) and remote access (VPN ASA, AAA, TACACS, RADIUS), cloud (OCI, Azure, AWS) and associated ongoing maintenance and updating of related hardware and software. This role will address critical organizational needs by: Resolving Technical Debt: Modernizing equipment, eliminating legacy protocols, and optimizing configurations for improved network performance, reliability, and security. Managing Workload and Complexity: Strategizing to efficiently handle increased operations, new technologies, and remote work demands. Enhancing Security: Implementing next-gen firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security protocols to help safeguard our network against cyberattacks, data breaches, and other security risks. Specialized Network Skills: Utilize their specialized skills and expertise, particularly with the ever-evolving Cisco platforms and other network vendor languages, cloud/hybrid computing, Network Function Virtualization among others to optimize network performance. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, able to multitask and enjoy problem solving. Candidate will be given lead on tasks and assignments to include working daily with local and remote technical and non-technical staff (Network Engineers, DBAs, System Admins, Computer Center Directors, Supreme Court Judges and Clerks, Tax Assessors, Vendors, etc.) to analyze and correct network-related issues. Classification: Salary, Non-Classified, Full-Time Benefits, FLSA Exempt SALARY / BENEFITS Starting annual salary range is $70,000 $80,000 plus excellent State of WV Employee benefits: health insurance, dental, vision, hearing, Health Savings Accounts / Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement investing, and life insurance plans, short-term/long-term disability insurance, as well as, generous amounts of vacation, sick, state & federal holidays, and professional development opportunities. MINIMUM EDUCATION Bachelors Degree in Telecommunications, Electronics, Computer Science, or related field; or, equivalent professional experience in lieu of degree. MINIMUM EXPERIENCE Details of relevant experience must be shown in your resume Required 6 to 8 years of progressively increasing experience and training in fields closely related to data communication or networking. Required Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) with at least 5 years of relevant experience is preferred. Required 6 to 8 years of hands-on experience is necessary to understand the complex interaction of communication protocols, computer-based networking equipment and associated wiring and electronics required to support the high-speed data transmission demanded by modern communications networks. Demonstrated hands-on proficiency with the Cisco CLI is a must. JOB DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES Maintaining and upgrading as needed multiple Operating Systems (Windows, Macintosh, Linux, Windows Server running on desktops, laptops, VMs) and their network-related software (Wireshark, Snort, TMS, ASDM, NMAP, etc.) as well as work to setup, troubleshooting and teardown wired and wireless networks at hotels and similar venues for statewide education & technology-related conferences, and occasional travel to all 55 WV counties (as well as Pittsburgh, PA and Columbus, OH) as needed to install, replace and maintain networking equipment. The Telecommunications Network Specialist III position will also provide training and guidance to TNS Is and TNS IIs staff. All telecommunication positions are on call to respond to network emergencies 24/7/365. KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES Problems encountered require considerable analytical and research skills couple with an extensive knowledge base of the technology equipment used across the state unified network. Various systems are in use by company and customers, which compounds the problems in providing network services. The design and implementation of new and/or integrated systems requires an in-depth knowledge of both the users needs and the technologies available to achieve the desired results. Effective, clear and concise communication is the key to understanding the customers requirements and creating a path forward. The ability to collaborate with teams of people over weeks and months on multiple and technical projects at once. Projects which have many moving parts and which require accurate and detailed planning and research to avoid system and network outages of mission critical systems. Thorough knowledge of: Internet TCP/IP protocols, both IPv4 and IPv6; LAN and WAN configuration and interconnections; configuring port-channels, BVIs, SVIs and associated configuration; routers, switches, firewalls, wireless access points, VPN and VOIP technologies; building telecommunications wiring, termination and cabling systems. Demonstrated abilities/skills to: think logically in problem troubleshooting while under stress; communication (both verbal/written) to technical and non-technical audiences; meet deadlines; work accurately and follow lengthy, specific directions; use creativity and imagination in technical problem solving; understand complex technical manuals and concepts; script/code in a programming language relevant to networking, whether for doing configuration management, automation, orchestration, monitoring, or management in general. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Frequently, perform two-person dead-lift large communications chassis weighing up to 200 lbs. For example, a Cisco 6509-E weighs between 60lbs empty up to 190lbs loaded, and has exactly 2 handles. Occasional travel to remote location for technical assistance. Often, especially when working at a remote location, there are only 2 people on the team. Therefore, telecommunication specialists must be able to lift and hold smaller switches/routers/servers while the other person screws the brackets to the rack. Its basically a standing shoulder press of between 10 to 25 pounds. Frequently, physically crawl on the floor in order to run cabling beneath sub-floor, as well as climb ladders to work overhead, often above ceiling tiles. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER/VETERANS/DISABLED The West Virginia Network for Educational Telecomputing (WVNET) is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. We provide a collegial, respectful and inclusive environment that values the diversity, creativity and contributions of its staff.