Hardware and Device Specialist (JB4304) at Kontak Recruitment

An IoT Service Provider is in search of a Hardware and Device Specialist knowledgeable in communication devices, specifically modems, routers, and related networking equipment, with a focus on the company's diverse range of devices, including OpenWRT-based and single-use Android devices. Expertise in Linux is essential, encompassing proficiency in operating systems, commands, file systems, and basic administration tasks.

You should excel in remote troubleshooting using SSH access and possess strong skills in debugging BASH shell scripts. The Specialist's role is pivotal in ensuring the functionality, reliability, and security of the company's devices, necessitating a deep understanding of hardware architecture, networking topologies, and the ability to adapt to evolving technologies

As part of their responsibilities, the Hardware and Device Specialist collaborates closely with sales and solutions teams to match devices to customer needs, and plays a crucial role in maintaining device integrity through remote troubleshooting and continuous adaptation to technological advancements

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as computer science, information technology, electronic engineering, or a related discipline can be advantageous.
• In-depth understanding of network hardware devices and peripheral technology.
• GSM networking experience and skills (Added Advantage)
• Proficiency in operating systems, especially those commonly used in the industry i.e., Linux and OpenWRT
• Knowledge in SSH access and possess strong skills in debugging BASH shell scripts
• Strong troubleshooting skills to diagnose and resolve hardware and device issues efficiently.
• Deep functional understanding of networking concepts and configurations.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills, as hardware and device specialists often interact with end-users to craft solutions, track performance and diagnose and resolve issues.
• Ability to document hardware configurations, issues, and solutions for reference and knowledge sharing.
• The IT field is dynamic, and hardware and device specialists should stay informed about the latest technologies, updates, and industry best practices.
• The ability to analyse complex hardware and device issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Work effectively within a team, especially when collaborating with network specialists, software developers, or other IT professionals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Device Selection and Configuration:

• Serve as the authority on device selection and its subsequent configuration, collaborating with sales and solutions teams to match devices to customer needs
• Provide deep understanding of device functionality and capabilities to ensure correct device fit for specific customer requirements
• Assist in defining necessary customizations on a per customer basis

Maintenance and Upgrades:

• Identify and execute remote maintenance and upgrade campaigns in response to bug fixes, security improvements, or functional upgrades

Troubleshooting:

• Identify and resolve hardware-related issues, including diagnosing problems, replacing faulty components, and addressing compatibility issues
• Collaborate with network engineers to troubleshoot and resolve networking and communications issues

Compatibility Testing:

• Ensure compatibility of new hardware devices with existing systems and software
• Test different configurations to optimize performance

Security Measures:

• Implement and maintain security measures for hardware components to protect against physical threats, unauthorized access, or data breaches

Documentation:

• Maintain detailed records of hardware configurations, installations, and maintenance activities for troubleshooting and planning future upgrades

Vendor Relations:

• Work closely with hardware vendors to stay updated on latest technologies, product releases, and support options
• Identify and evaluate potential new suppliers and vendors to enhance the company's device offering

User Support:

• Provide Tier-2 support to end-users for hardware-related issues, ensuring smooth operation

Network Integration:

• Collaborate with network specialists to ensure proper integration of hardware components into the company's and customers' network infrastructure

Performance Monitoring:

• Monitor device performance to identify potential issues or areas for improvement, utilizing monitoring tools and performance analysis

Compliance:

• Ensure devices comply with industry regulations, standards, and company policies

Sales Support:

• Work closely with sales team on solutions architect basis, participating in customer-facing meetings to ensure technology solutions meet stakeholder needs

Integration Team Oversight:

• Provide technical oversight for integration team, ensuring seamless integration of hardware components into overall system architecture
• Offer technical guidance, oversee quality assurance, and resolve integration challenges

Problem Resolution:

• Serve as subject matter expert to diagnose and resolve technical issues during integration process, providing troubleshooting assistance and recommending solutions

Performance Optimization:

• Collaborate with integration team to optimize hardware performance within system architecture, enhancing efficiency, reliability, and scalability

Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

• Work closely with integration team members to ensure hardware components integrate seamlessly with other system elements, facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration and communication

Documentation and Knowledge Sharing:

• Document key decisions, configurations, and lessons learned to facilitate knowledge sharing within integration team and across organization, contributing to creation of integration guides and troubleshooting procedures

Organizational Leadership:

• Hold technical responsibility for support and integration teams, providing mentorship and guidance
• Evaluate team performance, provide feedback, and support professional development initiatives
• Foster collaborative work environment, setting expectations and delegating responsibilities to ensure alignment with project goals and tasks