Job Description
We’re seeking a Network Specialist to take a lead role in maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing Solarus’s network systems. This position is responsible for ensuring the stability, performance, and security of our fiber and IP infrastructure. You’ll perform advanced network monitoring, configuration, and problem resolution, working hands-on with routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless systems.
This role requires strong analytical skills, the ability to work independently in live production environments, and the confidence to perform on-site verification, console access, and packet captures when diagnosing network issues. The Network Specialist also assists in network expansion projects and collaborates closely with architects, administrators, central office technicians and field technicians to deliver reliable connectivity across our service areas.
Job Duties/Responsibilities:
Network Maintenance & Support
- Monitoring network performance to ensure reliability and efficiency
- Troubleshooting connectivity issues with routers, switches, and other hardware. Requires team members to be onsite to verify physical connections, to directly connect console cables, and perform packets captures
- Performing routine maintenance, updates, and system patches
Network Configuration & Implementation
- Configuring network devices such as switches, routers, and wireless access points.
- Assisting in the deployment of network infrastructure with the guidance of the network architect or the like.
- Managing network access and permissions for users
Security & Compliance
- Enforcing network security policies, including authentication and authorization
- Monitoring for security threats and responding to incidents
- Ensuring compliance with industry regulations and organization requirements
Troubleshooting & Issue Resolution
- Diagnosing and resolving network-related issues quickly
- Assisting users and customers with network connectivity problems
- Escalating complex problems to senior IT staff or network architects
Documentation & Reporting
- Maintaining network diagrams, configurations, and incident reports
- Documenting troubleshooting steps for common issues
- Providing reports on network performance and security events
Collaboration & User Support
- Working with IT teams to ensure seamless network operations
- Providing technical supports to employees regarding network access
- Assisting in network upgrades and migration projects
All other duties as assigned.
Physical Requirements:
• Work environment will be a climate-controlled office setting
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods at a desk and use a computer for prolonged periods
- Performs repetitive hand motions such as typing, writing, and handling documents and equipment
- Clear verbal communication and adequate hearing for conversations and meetings
- Clarity of vision at approximately 20 inches or less, including use of computers or paper documents
- Frequently required to walk, reach, and grasp with hands and arms
- Occasionally required to use ladders, stoop, kneel, bend, twist and lift/carry up to 50 pounds
- Ability to perform physically exerting tasks with routine exposure to dust, dirt, and temperature extremes
- Occasional travel to other company, customer, or training location may be required
The Preferred Candidate Will Possess
- Education: An associate degree in Computer Science, Networking, or equivalent work experience.
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years in networking or equivalent experience in a network operations environment.
- Additional Skills: Experience with VoIP systems or SIP-based technologies is a strong plus.
Benefits
- 401(k) with generous employer matching.
- Health, vision, and dental insurance available immediately.
- Paid time off available immediately.
- Discounted employee services within our service area.
- Extremely competitive wages within the telecommunications industry.
About Us
Solarus first began providing telephone service to Central Wisconsin residents in 1896. Over the years, our steadfast commitment to delivering innovative communication solutions has driven numerous technological advancements and substantial growth.
Today, we are proud to offer a comprehensive suite of High-Speed Internet, Voice, Video, Security, and Home Automation solutions for both residential and business customers.
Solarus is owned by more than 1,025 local stockholders, all of whom are also customers. Both the company and its 100+ employees are proud to give back to area schools, organizations, and community initiatives that align with our commitment to making Central Wisconsin a great place to live, work, and do business.
Solarus is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
