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Network Engineering Senior Engineer

Location: 296 - Louisville Assembly Plant (LAP)
Location Address: 2000 Fern Valley Road , LOUISVILLE, KY, 40213

W2

Position Description:

New Model Launch Network Coordination Engineer The Ford Network Services organization is seeking an engineer to work as a New Model Launch Network Coordination Engineer for the large-scale Manufacturing Network project at the Louisville Assembly plant. Core Role Summary This individual will be central point of contact for the network services organization. They will coordinate all network-related readiness activities required for a new product/model launch, ensuring infrastructure (LAN, Wireless LAN, Cellular), connectivity, and systems integration are delivered on time, tested and validated, and aligned with launch milestones. The role blends technical coordination, project management, and manufacturing support. They will work closely with other Network and Manufacturing teams during equipment deployment and launch. The scope of responsibility will cover network infrastructure and technologies including: MDF Core, distribution, access layer networking (Wired) using Cisco Catalyst Center, Wi-Fi 7, and Commercial and Private Cellular. Key Responsibilities 1) Launch coordination & planning • Develop and maintain launch timelines, milestones, and project deliverables • Coordinate activities across Network Engineering/Planning/Operations, Manufacturing IT, Manufacturing and Networking Partners/Suppliers • Track progress and ensure deadlines are met 2) Network & infrastructure readiness • Ensure plant network infrastructure (IDF’s, switches, access points, cellular DAS, cabling, connectivity) is installed and configured • Assist in coordinating provisioning of Network devices/systems • Verify that all network devices/systems are functioning properly (end-to-end) and operating by design 3) Systems integration • Ensure seamless data flow between: o Core MDF & Plant Floor Edge Switches, Wireless Controller & Access Points, Edge switches & Plant Floor device data cabling • Support testing and validation of system integrations before launch 4) Cross-functional communication • Act as a liaison between all project stakeholders -- Network Engineering/Planning/Operations, Manufacturing IT, Manufacturing and Networking Partners/Suppliers • Lead touchpoint meetings, provide updates, and manage stakeholder expectations • Translate technical issues into actionable items for different teams 5) Issue tracking & problem resolution • Identify risks, gaps, and delays early in the launch process • Lead troubleshooting efforts for network or system failures • Escalate critical issues and coordinate quick resolution 6) Supplier & external coordination • Work with Manufacturing IT and Manufacturing Stakeholders to ensure their systems and equipment integrate with plant networks • Validate readiness for production support • Ensure network infrastructure conforms with company standards 7) Testing & validation • Support pre-production trials and pilot builds • Verify system performance under real production conditions • Ensure all network-dependent processes function correctly 8) Documentation & reporting • Maintain and update network glidepaths, JIRA Epics/Stories, and launch documentation • Provide regular status reports to project stakeholders and leadership • Capture lessons learned for future launches In Simple Terms you make sure: • Everything is connected • Everyone is aligned • Launch is successful

Skills Required:

Network - Mobile and Wireless, Network Protocols & Standards, Network Switches, Network Management Tools, Network Engineering, Cisco Networks, LAN (Local Area Network)

Experience Required:

The ideal candidate must possess the following skills: • Strong project management skills, organizational skills, personal discipline, interpersonal relationship skills and communication skills (written and oral) • In-depth knowledge of Cisco LAN and Wireless infrastructure and related systems including Catalyst 9k switches, Wi-Fi 7, Catalyst Center, and Identity Services Engine (ISE) • In-depth understanding of networking and IP protocols (OSPF, BGP), Cisco Software Defined Networking (SD-Access) and Cisco Industrial switches • In-depth knowledge of Cisco routing & switching, IOS-XE Software • Exposure to Industrial Protocols (Ethernet IP and ProfiNet) • Knowledge of network cabling (fiber and copper) industry standards • Knowledge and Experience in SRE (Site Reliability Engineering) principles • Knowledge and understanding of Palo Alto Network products (Firewall, Prisma Access) • Knowledge of Commercial and Private Cellular systems • Demonstrated experience troubleshooting enterprise wired and wireless networks in a break/fix environment • Experience with Wi-Fi and Cellular deployment validation and troubleshooting

Education Required:

Bachelor's Degree

Education Preferred:

Additional Safety Training/Licensing/Personal Protection Requirements:

Additional Information :

The ideal candidate must possess the following skills: • Strong project management skills, organizational skills, personal discipline, interpersonal relationship skills and communication skills (written and oral) • In-depth knowledge of Cisco LAN and Wireless infrastructure and related systems including Catalyst 9k switches, Wi-Fi 7, Catalyst Center, and Identity Services Engine (ISE) • In-depth understanding of networking and IP protocols (OSPF, BGP), Cisco Software Defined Networking (SD-Access) and Cisco Industrial switches • In-depth knowledge of Cisco routing & switching, IOS-XE Software • Exposure to Industrial Protocols (Ethernet IP and ProfiNet) • Knowledge of network cabling (fiber and copper) industry standards • Knowledge and Experience in SRE (Site Reliability Engineering) principles • Knowledge and understanding of Palo Alto Network products (Firewall, Prisma Access) • Knowledge of Commercial and Private Cellular systems • Demonstrated experience troubleshooting enterprise wired and wireless networks in a break/fix environment • Experience with Wi-Fi and Cellular deployment validation and troubleshooting • Cisco CCNA preferred Minimum Requirements: • Self-motivated, exercise good judgment and show initiative in resolving issues, knowing when to escalate. • Ability to work under pressure at a fast-pace and meet strict deadlines • Analytical thinking and problem-solving • Excellent communication and stakeholder management • Attention to detail and ability to work independently • Have a strong customer focus Typical Work Environment: • On-site at Louisville Assembly Plant • Collaboration with IT teams, production teams, and suppliers • Fast-paced, deadline-driven (especially near launch dates)