Network Architect

Chicago, IL, United States

Network Architect Reports To: Director, Client Onboarding Department: Professional Services

Location: Chicago Exemption Status: Exempt PURPOSE:

The Network Architect is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing complex network infrastructures to support our clients' business needs. This role focuses on delivering high-quality network solutions that enhance performance, security, and scalability. The Network Architect will collaborate closely with clients and internal teams to understand requirements, develop tailored network designs, and ensure seamless integration and operation within the Professional Services line of business. This position aims to drive innovation, support business growth, and maintain the highest standards of service delivery, contributing to our reputation as a trusted managed services provider.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Performs network implementation services in conjunction with professional services, infrastructure, and client onboarding teams teams.

Follow established development processes and standards for all work. Identify and propose improvements to the processes and standards as necessary.

Serve as a subject matter expert in complex projects with minimal supervision or guidance.

Manage vendor and/or product provisioning, procurement, and delivery of LAN and WAN hardware, and delivery of data services.

Participate in development of architectural strategy, including technology standardization and modernization of data centers, enterprise and disaster recovery of network infrastructures.

Manage and troubleshoot wireless infrastructure including Cisco WLC, Prime Infrastructure, Meraki, and other vendor technologies based on client needs.

Ensure system availability, redundancy, security, and performance of network equipment and functions.

Produce engineering and installation plans to support new initiatives as well as prepare reports and documentation on the existing network configuration as required.

Provide work estimates for project and support scoping activities.

Provide expert level escalated troubleshooting for complex network support issues.

Assist with vendor escalation management and support case resolution.

Problem management, diagnosis, escalation, tracking and resolution.

Perform traffic engineering analysis on network facilities.

Assist in compiling training materials to support operational requirements, including hosting knowledge transfer sessions or similar for junior team members on topics related to network technologies, and acting in a mentorship capacity.

Report project status regularly.

Act as a resource for data network design, development, and implementation.

Establish and maintain good working relationships with clients.

Other responsibilities assigned by management

MINIMUM SKILLS, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Wireless Wireless Access Point installation and troubleshooting

Heat Mapping / Assessments for wireless

Switching/Routing VLANs, static routing

Onsite required - Chicago

Vender Experience Desired: Fortinet – FortiGates, FortiManager

Cisco - ASA/FTDs, Meraki

Zscaler

Network Access Control (NAC) – Aruba Clearpass, FortiNAC

Virtualized Networking – VMWare NSX

Azure Networking

Certification or equivalent knowledge to FCP for Fortinet, and CCMP for Cisco, ACP for Aruba

3 - 4 years of MSP network engineering Or 6–8 years of Enterprise Networking

3 - 4 years of hands-on experience with at least one of these networking brands: Cisco, HPE, Aruba, Meraki, or Fortinet.

Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to diagnose issues and develop effective solutions.

Adaptability: Being flexible and able to adapt to new technologies, changes in project scope, and evolving business needs.

Attention to Detail: Ensuring all aspects of the network are meticulously planned and maintained to avoid potential issues.

Time Management: Efficiently managing time and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines and handle multiple projects simultaneously.

Strategic Thinking: Ability to think long-term and strategically about the network’s role in achieving business objectives.

Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze complex requirements and constraints to develop viable network solutions.

Communication: Clearly articulating the design, benefits, and potential challenges of proposed solutions to stakeholders, both technical and non-technical.

Collaboration: Working closely with other IT professionals, such as software developers, systems architects, and security experts, to integrate network solutions seamlessly into the overall IT infrastructure.

Client-Centric Approach: Understanding the client’s or end user’s needs and ensuring that the solutions developed meet or exceed their expectations.

Documentation: Accurately documenting the design, implementation processes, and maintenance plans for network solutions to ensure clarity and continuity.

Strategic Vision: Understanding the long-term implications of network solutions and ensuring they align with the organization’s strategic goals.

At Ascend Technologies we firmly believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not only fundamental values but also powerful drivers of innovation, growth, and success. We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered.

CORE VALUES

We are seeking highly motivated individuals who have the willingness and ability to demonstrate Ascend core values: Committed to Client Success: Our actions and our words always align with the best interest of the client.

One Team: We work collaboratively to overcome challenges with humility and respect and do what it takes to find innovative solutions.

Integrity: We are unquestionably committed to doing the right thing even when it is hard.

Accountability: We hold ourselves and each other accountable for keeping our commitments to our clients, our communities, and one another.

Transparency: We create open lines of communication with each other and our clients, fostering relationships founded on candor and trust.

Salary Expectations starting at: $130,000

#J-18808-Ljbffr