Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Lakeland, FL

Under the general direction of the Senior Manager of Enterprise Network Services, the Network Engineer I is responsible for the installation and configuration of switches, routers, firewalls, and associated components to ensure the smooth operation of all Authority network systems. This role handles basic network-related projects independently, addressing advanced work problems and tasks with minimal supervision. Additionally, the Network Engineer I serves as the initial escalation point for unresolved issues from lower support tiers, focusing on areas such as switches, routers, firewalls, controllers, and access points.

This position requires flexibility to work rotating shifts, including days, evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays, to meet the demands of our 24/7 operations. 

Requires availability for emergency call-in.

*****This position is a temporary contractor role with an anticipated duration of 12 months.*****

SUPERVISES OTHERS: NO

FLSA STATUS: EXEMPT

COMPENSATION: $98,000(or approximately $47/hr) Based on Experience

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs basic setup, installation, and configuration of operating systems, including networking hardware and software components.
• Designs, builds, and implements functional network infrastructure, including LAN, WLAN, and WAN to support organizational needs.
• Monitors, diagnoses, and resolves common operating system problems to maintain system performance and reliability.
• Assist with troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of operating systems and applications, ensuring minimal disruption to users.
• Supports backup and recovery processes to protect data integrity and ensure business continuity.
• Assists in evaluating and recommending various software and hardware solutions to meet user needs and enhance operational effectiveness.
• Regular and reliable attendance is required as an essential function of the position.

This list is not intended to be all-inclusive, and you may not be responsible for every item listed. The employer reserves the right to assign additional functions and responsibilities as necessary.

COMPETENCIES

• Self-Management: Manages own time, priorities, and resources to achieve goals.
• Technical Focus: Maintaining up-to-date knowledge within one's field of expertise; Applying technical skills and knowledge.
• Problem Solving: Having the ability to identify problems and issues of varying complexities and to find effective solutions with few guidelines.
• Teamwork: The ability to function effectively within a team, contributing positively to collaborative efforts and achieving shared goals by demonstrating communication, collaboration, active listening, conflict resolution, and adaptability to different perspectives while respecting the roles and contributions of others.  At times takes lead and positively influences others.

REQUIRED FOR ALL HCAA JOBS

• In the event of an emergency or disaster that impacts the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority (HCAA), an employee may be required to respond promptly to duties and responsibilities as assigned by the employee's department or the HCAA Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Such assignments may be before, during, or after the emergency/disaster.
• Complies with all HCAA Policies, Standard Procedures, Rules and Regulations, and Operating Directives.

QUALIFICATIONS (EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS)

• Associate's Degree in Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Business Administration, Mathematics, or a related field.

• Two (2) years of information technology experience in advanced support of switches, routers, firewalls, controllers, access points, network appliances and monitoring tools.

• CompTIA Network or Cisco CCNA.

• Or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

• Must possess a valid Florida Driver License.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Cisco CCIE

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of network switching environments, routers, wireless technologies, and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems.
• Knowledge of IP schemas and subnetting and design.
• Knowledge of vulnerability identification and remediation techniques to maintain network security and integrity.
• Knowledge of datacenter configuration, and storage system technologies, including iSCSI, Fiber Channel, DAS, and NAS, to enhance data management capabilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.  

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others within and outside the Authority.  

• Ability to handle restricted, sensitive, and confidential information.  

• Ability to provide outstanding customer service, serve the public, and represent the Authority with courtesy and professionalism.  

PHYSICAL ABILITIES

• Standing, walking & sitting up to 6 hours per day 

• Frequent lifting up to 60 Ibs 

• Frequent bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, dragging, climbing, reaching over-head, kneeling & crawling  

• Continuous typing

• Occasional use of car/light truck

• Occasional use of power tools 

The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority-Tampa International Airport provides equal employment opportunity to all persons, regardless of age, race, religion, color, national origin, sex, political affiliations, marital status, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, membership, or non-membership in an employee organization, or based on personal favoritism or other non-merit factors.

The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority-Tampa International Airport welcomes and encourages applications from minorities, veterans, and persons with physical and mental disabilities, and will reasonably accommodate the needs of those persons in the application, testing and hiring process. The decision to grant reasonable accommodation requests will be made case-by-case.