Network Engineer Network Engineer Jobs in Harvard, IL

Ignatek, LLC (dba Ignite Technologies) is a small consulting firm dedicated to providing professionalism and top-notch maintenance to support organizations with their technology-based services.

Overview

This position is responsible for designing, maintaining, and securing complex network systems. It provides advanced technical support, leads infrastructure and security projects, and ensures reliable, high-performance networks for clients. The role acts as a subject matter expert and supports strategic IT planning and implementation.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Infrastructure

• Provide direction and leadership for the design, support, and implementation of Ignatek partner information technology infrastructure systems:
• Develop technical design specifications and documentation for all local and wide area network segments, including connectivity specifications and support for wireless and IP telephone networks.
• Lead and direct a technical team in assembling, installing, implementing, supporting, and maintaining routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, and wireless networks.
• Assist the Infrastructure Manager and technical staff in project implementation, including planning for unplanned initiatives.
• Manage and document all infrastructure devices (switches, routers, firewalls, VPN, WLAN), including connectivity specifications and IP telephony support.
• Troubleshoot network security, latency, or fault issues and implement corrective actions, including documentation and reporting.
• Use tools such as LAN analyzers, packet capture, and network monitoring software to test, manage, and plan network functionality.

Operational Tasks

• Manage technical staff responsible for infrastructure deployment and support (switches, routers, firewalls, wireless networks, VPNs).
• Lead county-wide, departmental, and inter-jurisdictional projects and plan for unplanned infrastructure initiatives.
• Supervise Network Technicians and Network/Telecom Specialists by:
• Assigning annual projects
• Ensuring deadlines and service level agreements are met
• Conducting performance reviews
• Participating in hiring processes
• Develop, engineer, implement, and maintain virtual server hosts and virtual machines.
• Provide annual budget and long-range planning information for systems.
• Ensure security standards and best practices are applied.
• Configure network services such as Active Directory, IIS, DNS, DHCP, and SQL.
• Make appropriate managerial and discretionary decisions.

Teamwork

• Assist the server team with installation, implementation, and support of:
• Windows systems
• Desktop and server security
• Data backup and retention
• Physical and virtual infrastructure
• Storage area networks
• Terminal services
• Unified computing systems
• Email and web server environments

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of networking topologies and protocols
• Strong understanding of VMware virtualization technologies
• Proficiency in Microsoft Windows and Linux systems
• Knowledge of switches, firewalls, wireless systems, and supporting software
• Advanced knowledge of LAN/WAN cabling technologies
• Experience with networking equipment and diagnostic tools
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft SQL Server and MySQL
• Strong understanding of PC and network hardware/software
• Ability to manage multiple projects effectively
• Experience developing methodologies based on NIST standards
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to analyze and evaluate data
• Ability to document, implement, test, and maintain procedures
• Ability to lead projects and collaborate with teams
• Strong relationship-building skills with partners

Education & Experience

• Associate’s degree required (Bachelor’s preferred) in an IT-related field
• Minimum 6 years of experience (1 year supervisory preferred)
• Preferred certifications: Microsoft MSCP, VMware VCA or VCP
• Experience with WAN and LAN environments
• Experience with virtualization technologies
• Experience with Active Directory and services such as IIS, DNS, DHCP, and SQL
• Valid driver’s license required
• Availability for occasional evenings, weekends, or split shifts