Remote Junior Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

                                                           NETWORK ENGINEER
This is a fully remote position; however, occasional travel may be required.
PURPOSE   

This position’s primary responsibility is to provide operational support for our clients’ network infrastructure including switches, routers, wireless access points and controllers, and firewalls. In addition to support, the network engineer will be involved in building, configuring and securing network infrastructure for clients. The successful candidate will have strong project management, organizational, and communication skills, along with a strong sense of urgency. 

RESPONSIBILITIES   

• Address escalated tickets for complex operational issues in client networks. 

• Maintain clients’ existing networks to ensure stability and compliance, and to address any issues and failures that arise during normal operation. 

• Communicate with clients regarding status of open tasks daily. 

• Assist with projects for data network design, development, and implementation, working in conjunction with professional services teams. 

• Follow established processes for all work, adhering to Ascend’s quality standards.  

• Development of documentation for client networks, including network diagrams. 

• Work with vendors for support case resolution. 

• Assist in mentorship/training of junior engineers. 

• Participate in an on-call rotation to provide off-hours support. 

MINIMUM SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE   

• Ability to communicate complex technical problems clearly to customers, with appropriate understanding of business impact and empathy for the client’s situation. 

• A strong sense of urgency (required). 

• Minimum 3 years Network Engineering experience (preferably at an MSP). 

• Knowledge of VoIP technologies preferred. 

• Experience with network technologies from Fortinet, Cisco, Aruba, Palo Alto, and Ubiquiti. 

• Experience with cloud networking concepts in Azure and AWS. 

• Extensive knowledge of network protocols, services, and monitoring tools. 

• Cisco CCNA and/or CCNP, or Fortinet FCP certification or equivalent working experience is required. 

• Ability to learn about new technologies rapidly and continually. 

PREFERRED SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE 

• Bachelor\'s degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology, Management Information Systems, or related degree program. 
   

Compensation range starting at: $86,000/year
The salary for this position is commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications. The range is intended to reflect our commitment to attracting top talent, and the final offer will be based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate\'s previous experience, expertise in the field, relevant certifications, and the specific requirements of the role. In addition, internal equity, market trends, and geographic location may also influence the final salary.
 
Along with a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings options, flexible time off (FTO), and professional development opportunities. We are open to discussing compensation and benefits further during the interview process to ensure alignment with the candidate’s expectations and experience.
At Ascend Technologies we firmly believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not only fundamental values but also powerful drivers of innovation, growth, and success. We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered.  

CORE VALUES  

We are seeking highly motivated individuals who have the willingness and ability to demonstrate Ascend core values:    

• Committed to Client Success: Our actions and our words always align with the best interest of the client.  

• One Team: We work collaboratively to overcome challenges with humility and respect and do what it takes to find innovative solutions.  

• Integrity: We are unquestionably committed to doing the right thing even when it is hard.  

• Accountability: We hold ourselves and each other accountable for keeping our commitments to our clients, our communities, and one another.  

• Transparency: We create open lines of communication with each other and our clients, fostering relationships founded on candor and trust.  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:   

Must be able to sit, stand, and bend for the duration of shift. The position is mainly sitting, with occasional lifting up to 50 lbs, such as laptop, server equipment, and, driving to the work site to meet with client(s).