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Network Jobs in Freeport, ME (NOW HIRING)

FirstLight

Core Network Engineer

Brunswick, ME · On-site

We are seeking a highly skilled Network Engineer to join our Core Network Engineering team. This is a senior-level, hands-on engineering position responsible for designing, deploying, scaling, and ...

Unum UK

Network Data Specialist

Portland, ME

$22.60/hr

The Network Data Specialist (NDS) is responsible for researching and resolving provider data issues across claims processing and record management systems. The role requires judgment to evaluate ...

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Network information

What jobs are in computer networking?

Network jobs refer to roles that involve the design, implementation, management, and troubleshooting of computer networks. These positions can include network administrators, network engineers, and network technicians, who are responsible for ensuring the smooth operation and security of data communication systems within organizations. Network jobs are essential for maintaining connectivity, supporting communication, and enabling the sharing of resources such as files and internet access across computers and devices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a network engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Network Engineer, you need strong knowledge of networking protocols, infrastructure design, troubleshooting, and a relevant degree or certification such as CCNA or CompTIA Network+. Familiarity with network hardware, firewalls, routers, switches, and management tools like Wireshark or SolarWinds is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for diagnosing issues and collaborating with IT teams. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring network reliability, security, and optimal performance in modern organizations.

What is the difference between a network engineer and a network administrator?

A network engineer is responsible for designing and building a network, as well as for acquiring and locating required physical components. A network administrator is responsible for the daily functionality of the network, ensuring reliability and data security. Admins create and remove users and group permissions, following best practices for network security. Both jobs require specialized technical knowledge and coordination with stakeholders throughout the organization.

What are some typical challenges faced by network engineers in maintaining network security, and how can they be addressed?

Network engineers often encounter challenges such as managing vulnerabilities from outdated hardware or software, mitigating the risks of unauthorized access, and responding to evolving cyber threats. To address these issues, engineers regularly update and patch systems, implement robust firewalls, and use intrusion detection systems. Collaborating closely with the IT security team and staying current with industry best practices are also essential strategies for maintaining a secure and resilient network environment.

What is the difference between Network vs Network Administrator?

AspectNetworkNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCCNA, CompTIA Network+CCNA, CompTIA Network+, Cisco certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning, planning, and implementing networksManaging, maintaining, and troubleshooting networks
Job ResponsibilitiesNetwork architecture, hardware setupNetwork monitoring, user support, security
Industry UsageUsed broadly in network design and planningCommonly employed in daily network management

While both roles involve working with networks, a 'Network' professional typically focuses on designing and planning network infrastructure, whereas a 'Network Administrator' manages and maintains existing networks. The Network role is more strategic, while the Network Administrator handles operational tasks to ensure network stability and security.

What careers are there in networking?

Careers in networking include roles such as network administrator, network engineer, systems analyst, and cybersecurity specialist. These positions involve managing, designing, and securing computer networks, often requiring knowledge of protocols, hardware, and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+.

What do you do in a network job?

A network job typically involves designing, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting computer networks to ensure reliable data communication. Professionals in this field configure hardware and software, monitor network performance, and maintain security protocols, often using tools like routers, switches, and network management software. Certifications such as Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ are common for these roles.
More about Network jobs

What job categories do people searching Network jobs in Freeport, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Network jobs in Freeport, ME are:

What cities near Freeport, ME are hiring for Network jobs?

Cities near Freeport, ME with the most Network job openings:

Network jobs near you
Infographic showing various Network job openings in Freeport, ME as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Core Network Engineer

FirstLight

Brunswick, ME • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

FirstLight Fiber rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 101 rated telecommunications companies

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled Network Engineer to join our Core Network Engineering team. This is a senior-level, hands-on engineering position responsible for designing, deploying, scaling, and supporting FirstLight's carrier-class backbone network.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience with optical transport, DWDM, SONET, Carrier Ethernet, and IP/MPLS networking technologies and will lead network projects from concept through deployment and operational turnover.


Position Summary


The Core Network Engineer is responsible for the deployment, capacity expansion, security, troubleshooting, and operational support of FirstLight's production backbone network. This role combines network engineering, project leadership, capacity planning, and Tier 3 escalation support.

The successful candidate will lead network deployments from initial design through implementation, migration, testing, and operational acceptance. They will work closely with Operations, Service Delivery, Construction, Outside Plant, and vendor teams to ensure successful execution of network projects while maintaining the reliability and scalability of FirstLight's backbone infrastructure.

This position plays a critical role in the ongoing evolution of the network, including supporting growth initiatives involving the latest transport technologies.

 

Key Responsibilities

Network Engineering & Deployment

  • Lead network deployments from planning and design through implementation, testing, migration, and operational handoff.
  • Develop engineering designs, implementation plans, migration procedures, test plans, and rollback strategies.
  • Own network expansion, augmentation, and modernization projects from start to finish.
  • Ensure deployed solutions meet operational, scalability, resiliency, and performance requirements.
  • Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to ensure successful project execution.
  • Design, deploy, and troubleshoot carrier-class optical transport networks.
  • Engineer and scale DWDM infrastructure supporting backbone growth and service expansion.
  • Engineer, design, and implement upgrades to the IP Core backbone.
  • Plan and implement capacity upgrades supporting flex-grid transport technologies.
  • Support optical path engineering, wavelength provisioning, network resilience, and transport optimization.
  • Design, deploy, and troubleshoot large-scale Carrier Ethernet backbone networks.
  • Maintain expert-level knowledge of Layer 2 transport technologies and Ethernet service architecture.
  • Support Ethernet transport technologies
  • Develop and maintain engineering standards and best practices.
  • Design, deploy, and support carrier-grade IP/MPLS backbone infrastructure.
  • Maintain strong expertise in MPLS and IP networking Protocols
  • Support backbone routing, network resiliency, and service provider interconnection initiatives.
  • Deploy, administer, and optimize Fortinet FortiGate and Cisco Firepower security solutions.
  • Configure and maintain firewall policies, IPS/IDS, VPNs, NAT, application controls, and threat prevention services.
  • Perform network security assessments, vulnerability remediation, and security hardening initiatives.

Capacity Planning & Network Growth

  • Lead capacity planning initiatives across optical, transport, and routing platforms.
  • Analyze utilization trends and forecast network growth requirements.
  • Develop solutions for increasing network scale, performance, and resiliency.
  • Support long-term technology roadmaps and network evolution strategies.
  • Evaluate new technologies, hardware platforms, and software solutions.

Technical Leadership & Escalation Support

  • Serve as a Tier 3 escalation resource for complex network issues and outages.
  • Lead troubleshooting efforts across optical, DWDM, SONET, Ethernet, MPLS, and IP routing environments.
  • Conduct root cause analysis and develop corrective actions for major network events.
  • Work directly with vendors to resolve complex hardware, software, and interoperability issues.
  • Mentor and support Operations and Engineering teams on network technologies and best practices.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Engineering, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or equivalent experience.
  • 7+ years of experience in service provider, telecommunications, carrier, or large-scale network engineering.
  • Strong experience designing, deploying, and troubleshooting:
    • DWDM Transport Networks
    • Optical Transmission Systems
    • SONET Infrastructure
    • Carrier Ethernet Networks
    • IP/MPLS Networks
  • Experience leading network deployment, migration, and infrastructure expansion projects.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills across Layer 1, Layer 2, and Layer 3 technologies.
  • Experience working in multi-vendor carrier network environments.
  • Ability to develop implementation plans, migration procedures, testing methodologies, and operational documentation.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Must be a team player.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with carrier-grade platforms such as:
    • Ciena
    • Cisco
    • Juniper
    • Nokia
    • Adva
  • Experience supporting large-scale optical and packet backbone networks.
  • Experience with coherent optical technologies and modern transport architectures.
  • Industry certifications such as:
    • CCNP / CCIE
    • JNCIP / JNCIE
    • MEF Certifications
    • CISSP
  • Experience supporting networks utilizing 100G, 400G, and 800G+ transport technologies.
  • Familiarity with DDoS mitigation, network automation, and security compliance frameworks
  • Working Conditions
  • Participation in a rotating on-call schedule is required.
  • Must be available to support emergency outage restoration activities and critical network events outside normal business hours.
  • Participation in scheduled maintenance windows and after-hours implementation activities is expected.
  • Occasional travel may be required to support network deployments, central office builds, vendor engagements, and infrastructure projects.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment supporting a 24x7 carrier network.

About FirstLight:

FirstLight, headquartered in Albany, New York, provides fiber-optic data, Internet, data center, cloud and voice services to enterprise and carrier customers throughout the Northeast connecting more than 13,000 locations in service with more than 125,000 locations serviceable by our more than 25,000-route mile network. FirstLight offers a robust suite of advanced telecommunications products featuring a comprehensive portfolio of high bandwidth connectivity solutions including Ethernet, wavelength, and dark fiber services as well as dedicated Internet access solutions, data center, cloud and voice services. FirstLight’s clientele includes national cellular providers and wireline carriers and many leading enterprises, spanning high tech manufacturing and research, hospitals and healthcare, banking and financial, secondary education, colleges and universities, and local and state governments.

FirstLight Fiber is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with state and federal laws, FirstLight’s equal opportunity policy is that all applicants and employees are treated equally by the company with respect to employment opportunities, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status or veteran disability.


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