Senior Network Engineer at The National Student Financial Aid Scheme

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Policy, Systems and Procedure Implementation

• Ensure all network equipment and configurations comply fully with NSFAS ICT security policies and standards.

Core Strategic/Operations Objectives Implementation

• Maintain up-to-date and thorough understanding of core Internet technologies including DNS, Security, IP Routing, HTTP, VPN, Email Routing, and SPAM filtering.
• Demonstrate proficiency in configuring and setting up Fortinet Firewalls, VPNs, and security appliances with zero critical errors.
• Successfully design, configure, and deploy complex switching environments that meet organisational performance and security requirements.
• Design and implement wireless network solutions that support secure access, voice, and video applications with minimal downtime and high user satisfaction.
• Configure and install client and server network software upgrades and maintain telecommunication systems with 99.9% uptime across multi-site operations.
• Monitor network systems and servers continuously to ensure availability and performance, with proactive issue detection and resolution.
• Provide timely and effective technical assistance to staff, administrators, service providers, and vendors, resolving inquiries within agreed service levels.
• Troubleshoot and resolve network hardware, software, telephone, and security system malfunctions promptly to minimize operational disruptions.
• Set up and manage network user accounts, permissions, and passwords securely and efficiently, ensuring compliance with organisational policies.
• Ensure NSFAS ICT security compliance at both network and procedural levels, conducting regular audits and risk assessments.

People Management & Ethical Leadership

• Display high standards of personal integrity and ethical behaviour in all ICT dealings.
• Lead and manage the NSFAS ICT networks team effectively, ensuring clear communication, skill development, and team productivity.

Stakeholder Management & Relationships

• Participate in after-hours standby rotation as required, responding to critical network incidents within agreed response times.

Project Management & Leadership

• Manage assigned network projects and program components, delivering services on time and within budget according to established objectives.

Budget Optimisation

• Optimize the use of network servers and resources to ensure cost-effective and efficient network operations.
• Proactively suggest and implement innovative network solutions that address business and management challenges

Compliance Monitoring and Evaluation

• Maintain comprehensive and accurate documentation of the network environment in alignment with NSFAS standards, reviewed and updated quarterly.

Information and Knowledge Management

• Regularly share relevant industry trends and knowledge with team members and stakeholders through formal and informal channels to enhance skills and drive corrective measures.

Reporting and Accountability

• Prepare accurate ICT data reports for stakeholders and management.

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Minimum requirements:

• NQF level 7 in Computer Science/ Information Systems / Information Technology or related.
• 8 Years’ experience in designing, implementing or supporting network environments.
• Extensive with Cisco or HP networking technologies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic experience in Cloud computing
• The ability to be on call and work after hours to support, maintain and configure network and security infrastructure as required.
• Driver license