Network Engineer I

Rice University is an academic institution supported by the Office of Technology Solutions & Services, which provides constituent service and core IT capabilities. The Network Engineer I supports the design, management, operation, and maintenance of campus network infrastructure, including network hardware, software, connectivity, and wireless systems. The role also provides technical support, troubleshooting, documentation, maintenance, and customer service to faculty, students, staff, and technical teams.

Responsibilities:

• Implements, configures, and assists in maintaining campus network hardware and software infrastructure
• Assists in the design, documentation, and deployment of new or upgraded network connections and wireless access points
• Monitors network utilization and performance, escalating or initiating corrective action when service levels degrade
• Responds to network service requests and support tickets; diagnoses connectivity issues and executes timely repairs
• Prepares and maintains accurate network documentation, diagrams, and operational procedures
• Performs routine system maintenance, patches, and security updates on network devices in accordance with IT security policies and procedures
• Participates in scheduled maintenance windows and emergency response as required
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree
  • In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis
• 1+ years of hands-on experience in network administration, network support, and demonstrated experience in troubleshooting network connectivity issues
  • In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical users across campus
• Solid knowledge of and experience with fundamental network protocols and technologies, including TCP/IP, DNS/DHCP, VLANs, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), basic routing (OSPF/BGP), 802.11 wireless standards, and IP subnetting
• Effective troubleshooting and analytical skills for diagnosing network performance and connectivity issues
• Demonstrated ability to mentor, guide, and train student technicians and junior staff, fostering skill development and quality work habits
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks, handle competing demands, and meet deadlines effectively
• 2 years of experience providing customer service and network services to both technically proficient and inexperienced clients, and working with individuals and teams involved in technical support
• Experience with network software and hardware systems, managing and supporting complex infrastructure projects, and Infoblox (DNS, DHCP, and IPAM systems)
• Functional experience in departmental management, systems implementation, systems support, project management, and customer relations (preferably in a higher education or research environment)
• Experience with Unix, Windows, and macOS operating systems
• Experience with wireless networking technologies (hardware and software)
• Understanding of Cisco and Arista network hardware/software and data cabling installation practices