Network Engineer (Midrand) at Optimal Growth Technologies

Job Summary

• We are looking for a skilled Network Engineer to design, implement, maintain, and support our growing network infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of network protocols, architecture, and troubleshooting, ensuring high availability and performance of critical infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Network Design and Implementation:
• Design and deploy functional networks, including LAN, WAN, WLAN, and cloud solutions.
• Configure and install networking equipment such as routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless controllers.
• Monitoring and Maintenance:
• Monitor network performance and ensure system availability and reliability.
• Perform regular network maintenance, upgrades, and backups.
• Troubleshooting:
• Identify and resolve network problems, bottlenecks, and security issues.
• Respond to and resolve escalated incidents related to network operations.
• Documentation:
• Maintain accurate documentation of network configurations, processes, and policies.
• Create and update network diagrams and inventory records.
• Collaboration:
• Work closely with IT teams to integrate network systems with enterprise applications.
• Provide technical guidance and support to junior engineers and other staff.
• Security:
• Ensure networks are secure by configuring firewalls, implementing encryption protocols, and adhering to cybersecurity best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum 5+ years in network engineering or related roles.

Certifications (preferred):

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Professional (CCNP).
• Juniper Networks Certified Specialist (JNCS).
• CompTIA Network+ or equivalent.

Technical Skills:

• Proficient in configuring and managing routers, switches, and firewalls.
• Strong understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, BGP, OSPF, and VLANs.
• Experience with network monitoring tools like SolarWinds, Nagios, or PRTG.
• Familiarity with cloud networking (e.g., AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud).

Soft Skills:

• Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with SD-WAN and MPLS technologies.
• Knowledge of scripting or automation tools (e.g., Python, Ansible).
• Familiarity with ITIL processes and change management.
• Exposure to VoIP, Unified Communications, and video conferencing systems.