Entry Level Firmware Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts

Department: Office of the Chief Information Officer
SUMMARY
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Network Administrator I to join our IT team. This role is suitable for professionals at varying stages of their networking careers, from entry-level to experienced administrators, who are eager to support, maintain, and enhance network infrastructure across both on-premises and cloud environments. The Network Administrator will work independently or in collaboration with other OCIO staff to ensure the reliability, security, and optimal performance of the organization's network systems.
Responsibilities include supporting and administering AWS networking components, configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting Fortinet wired and wireless network equipment, managing FortiEMS (Endpoint Management System), supporting IPSec VPN connectivity, and assisting with network security controls, monitoring, and incident response. The scope and complexity of responsibilities will align with the individual's experience and skill level, with opportunities for continued learning and advancement.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Network Administrator - Level I (Entry / Junior)
Level I focuses on operational support, monitoring, and guided troubleshooting under the direction of senior staff.

• Monitor network performance, availability, and security alerts across on-premises and cloud environments.
• Assist in configuring, maintaining, and documenting Fortinet wired and wireless network equipment (switches, access points, firewalls).
• Perform basic administration tasks in AWS, including reviewing network configurations (VPCs, subnets, security groups) under supervision.
• Support FortiEMS (Endpoint Management System) by onboarding devices, applying policies, and verifying compliance.
• Assist with the setup and support of IPSec VPN connections, including user access and basic troubleshooting.
• Respond to service requests and incidents related to network connectivity, wireless access, and VPN access.
• Perform routine network maintenance tasks, including firmware updates, patching, backups, and inventory tracking.
• Follow established change management, security, and documentation procedures.
• Escalate complex issues to Level II or Level III administrators as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate network diagrams, asset records, and configuration documentation to ensure optimal network performance.

STAFF MANAGEMENT AND JOB CONTACTS
Reporting Relationships
Supervisor: OCIO Systems Manager
Supervises: Interns
Regular Contacts
OCIO Service Desk, OCIO Information Security, OCIO Enterprise Application Engineering and Engineering peers, OCIO PMO, Audit & Compliance, Site Services, vendors, and OCIO customers throughout the organization
JOB REQUIREMENTS
Education/Experience:Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Networking, or a related field OR equivalent combination of technical training and hands-on experience.
Relevant certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+) are preferred and may substitute for formal education.
Experience may include academic coursework, vocational/technical training, internships, and entry-level IT roles.
Candidates should demonstrate a foundational understanding of networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP), basic troubleshooting skills, and familiarity with network hardware and tools.
Network Administrator - Level I (Entry / Junior)
Typical Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in network administration, IT support, or a related technical role.

Experience Requirements:

• Basic experience supporting enterprise networks (wired and wireless).
• Familiarity with TCP/IP networking concepts, including DNS, DHCP, VLANs, and routing fundamentals.
• Introductory experience or academic exposure to firewall concepts and network security principles.
• Exposure to Fortinet network equipment (FortiGate, FortiSwitch, FortiAP) or similar vendor platforms.
• Basic experience or coursework related to AWS or cloud networking concepts (VPCs, subnets, security groups).
• Experience following documented procedures and escalating issues appropriately.
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting connectivity issues under the supervision of a senior professional.
• Experience in maintaining technical documentation or ticketing systems.

Certifications (Preferred):

• CompTIA Network+
• AWS Cloud Practitioner
• Fortinet NSE 1-3 (or equivalent)

Knowledge/Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving Able to resolve technical issues directly (hands-on) and indirectly (through teamwork and influence) through service partners and product vendors.
• Strong curiosity and love for learning. Desire to maintain technical proficiency, industry best practices, and certification through personal self-study and TFCCS-funded training/conferences.
• Strong verbal communication Track record of success operating collaboratively in teams and managing vendor relationships. Comfortable providing performance feedback to vendors (meeting SLAs), coaching, and conflict resolution.
• Strong written communication History of authoring effective documentation as well as updating/maintaining it consistently.
• Access to confidential information requires an impeccable background of professional judgment & ethical behavior.

Work Environment

• After-hours availability for maintenance and emergency work is mandatory.
• Boston Office onsite work.
• Help out the OCIO Service Desk in emergency/overflow situations.

Engagement with Christian Science

• Membership in The Mother Church is preferred.

Pay range: $38.99 - $50.68 hourly
The pay ranges disclosed in our job postings are the compensation ranges the Church reasonably and in good faith expects to pay for a given position at the time of posting.
The offered salary will be determined by factors such as the applicant's relevant education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities; and benchmarking, work location, and internal equity.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.