Remote Network Engineer Jobs in Cottage Grove, MN

Primary Summary: Responsible for evaluating, designing, developing, implementing, and commissioning telecommunications network infrastructure supporting broadband, transport, and access systems. This role serves as a technical resource for core networking, transport, routing, security, and infrastructure modernization projects. The Network Engineer II collaborates with clients, vendors, operations teams, and multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver scalable, reliable, and secure network solutions while supporting engineering standards and operational excellence.

Responsibilities:
• Evaluate, design, and commission telecommunications networks from the access layer through the core network.

• Design, develop, implement, and maintain fiber optic access and transport systems.

• Develop and evaluate Requests for Proposal (RFPs) and Requests for Information (RFIs) from equipment manufacturers and technology vendors.

• Develop documentation and implementation plans for network installations, maintenance, and migrations.

• Configure and deploy routers, switches, firewalls, wireless infrastructure, load balancers, and related networking equipment.

• Implement network security best practices including VLANs, ACLs, firewalls, VPNs, and Network Access Control (NAC).

• Plan, support, and execute network installations, upgrades, migrations, and infrastructure expansions.

• Create and maintain detailed network documentation, diagrams, standards, and operating procedures.

• Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to identify vulnerabilities, implement security controls, and maintain regulatory and organizational compliance.

• Coordinate with vendors, service providers, and project teams throughout equipment procurement, deployment, and support.

• Troubleshoot network performance issues and recommend improvements that enhance reliability, scalability, and operational efficiency.

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and engineering support staff.

• Maintain current knowledge of emerging networking technologies, industry standards, and best practices.

• Perform other related duties, as assigned.

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering preferred; or other degree in combination with directly related equivalent work experience.

Experience:
Required:
• 3-6 years of progressively responsible experience designing, implementing, or supporting telecommunications or enterprise network environments.

• Strong knowledge of:

• Familiarity with cloud networking concepts and hybrid infrastructure environments.

• Experience with broadband service provider, electric utility communications, and/or carrier transport networks.

• Experience designing and supporting multivendor broadband telecommunications environments including platforms from Adtran, Calix, Ciena, Cisco, Juniper, Nokia, Ribbon or similar telecommunications networking platforms.

Preferred:

• Experience with network automation or scripting tools such as PowerShell, Python, or Ansible.

• Experience deploying GPON or XGS-PON access technologies.

• Experience deploying transport technologies including MPLS, Segment Routing, DWDM, G.8032, and ERPS.

• Experience deploying wireless communications systems.

• Experience deploying, monitoring, and troubleshooting carrier ethernet.

Competencies:
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced consulting environment.

• Strong organizational and documentation skills.

• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across engineering disciplines.

• Commitment to delivering exceptional service to clients and project stakeholders.

• Ability to mentor and support less experienced engineering staff.

Licenses, Certifications, Training Requirements: A valid motor vehicle driver’s license in good standing is required. No DWI/DUI convictions.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors:
• Work is primarily computer work, and most assignments are performed in an office type environment.
• Ability to install, rack, cable, and commission networking equipment.

• Ability to lift and move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to work in data centers, central offices, wiring closets, and outdoor telecommunications facilities.

• Availability for occasional evening or weekend work during scheduled maintenance windows.

Work Location: Remote; must live in the United States.

Travel: Travel approximately 30% of the time.

In the spirit of pay transparency, the starting base pay range for this position is exclusive of benefits. If you are hired at Finley Engineering, your base pay will be determined based on factors such as skills, education, and experience related to the position. In addition to those factors, we believe in the importance of pay equity and will also consider internal equity of our current associates as a part of the final offer. Hiring at the high end of the range would not be typical.

Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to be employed in the United States. Finley Engineering does not intend to provide sponsorship for employment visa status for this employment position.