Senior Network Administrator

Job SummaryThe Senior Network Administrator is responsible for the implementation, administration, monitoring, optimization, and security of enterprise network infrastructure. This role ensures the availability, performance, scalability, and security of all network systems across the organization. The position includes hands-on support for routing, switching, firewalls, virtualization networking, monitoring systems, and cybersecurity controls, while also collaborating closely with Network Engineers, System Administrators, security teams, vendors, and management. The Senior Network Administrator will play a key role in maintaining highly available and secure network operations within a regulated environment and supporting future infrastructure growth, modernization, and disaster recovery initiatives.Key Responsibilities·        Administer, maintain, and troubleshoot enterprise LAN, WAN, WLAN, VPN, and data center network environments.·        Perform network assessments, implementation, configuration, upgrades, and optimization of network infrastructure.·        Configure and manage routers, switches, firewalls, wireless controllers, VPN concentrators, and security appliances.·        Ensure network configurations comply with approved architecture, cybersecurity standards, and operational procedures.·        Monitor network availability, bandwidth utilization, latency, and performance using enterprise monitoring tools.·        Analyze recurring network issues and implement permanent corrective actions.·        Implement and maintain network security controls, segmentation, access control policies, and secure remote connectivity.·        Administer security solutions including IDS/IPS, SIEM integration, vulnerability scanners, NAC, and network access policies.·        Monitor logs and investigate anomalies related to authentication failures, unauthorized access attempts, hardware alerts, and administrative activities.·        Apply firmware updates, patches, and security hardening measures to network devices according to approved procedures.·        Support virtualization and cloud networking technologies including VMware, Hyper-V, Azure, or AWS networking integrations.·        Assist in disaster recovery planning, backup validation, failover testing, and business continuity operations.·        Implement and maintain network monitoring and alerting systems for proactive operational visibility.·        Prepare network performance reports, incident reports, technical documentation, topology diagrams, and operational procedures.·        Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior administrators and support staff.·        Coordinate with vendors and service providers for escalations, warranty support, and maintenance activities.·        Participate in planned maintenance activities, upgrades, emergency troubleshooting, and after-hours support when required.·        Communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.Required Skills & Technical Competencies·        Strong knowledge of enterprise routing and switching technologies.·        Hands-on experience with Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, Fortinet, Aruba, or similar enterprise solutions.·        Experience with firewall policies, VPN technologies, NAT, ACLs, and network segmentation.·        Knowledge of network security standards, hardening practices, and cybersecurity frameworks.·        Experience with network monitoring systems, SIEM platforms, IDS/IPS solutions, and vulnerability management tools.·        Familiarity with scripting and automation tools such as PowerShell, Python, or Ansible.·        Understanding of virtualization and cloud networking concepts.·        Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.·        Excellent documentation and communication abilities.Education & Experience·        Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Information Systems, or related field from an accredited institution.·        Minimum 7–10 years of experience in enterprise network administration and infrastructure support.·        Proven experience implementing and managing complex, multi-site enterprise networks.·        Experience working in government, correctional, healthcare, or other regulated/high-security environments is highly preferred.·        Experience supporting mission-critical systems with high availability requirements.Preferred Certifications·        Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)·        Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) – Preferred·        CompTIA Security+·        CompTIA Network+·        Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE)·        Fortinet NSE Certifications·        Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Advantage·        VMware VCP or equivalent virtualization certificationPersonal Attributes·        Strong sense of ownership and accountability.·        Ability to work under pressure and manage critical incidents effectively.·        Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.·        Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.·        Professional attitude with strong teamwork and collaboration skills.