Job Description: Network Planning Engineer
Position: Network Planning Engineer
Department: Information Technology (IT)
Reports To: Network Planning Manager
Job Summary:
The Network Planning Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the organization's network infrastructure. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to analyze network requirements, evaluate existing network systems, and recommend enhancements or modifications to optimize network performance. The Network Planning Engineer also develops network architecture plans, conducts network capacity planning, and ensures network security and reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Design and implement network infrastructure solutions to support business objectives and meet the organization's network requirements.
2. Evaluate current network systems and identify areas for improvement, ensuring efficient network operations and optimal performance.
3. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather network requirements and propose network design modifications or enhancements.
4. Develop network architecture plans, including diagrams and documentation, to support network implementation and troubleshooting activities.
5. Conduct network capacity planning to anticipate future network growth and ensure scalability and reliability.
6. Configure and troubleshoot network devices, including routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers.
7. Implement network security measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and virtual private networks (VPNs), to safeguard network resources and data.
8. Monitor network performance, analyze network traffic, and identify potential bottlenecks or issues to ensure optimal network performance.
9. Collaborate with vendors and service providers to procure network equipment and services, ensuring cost-effective solutions.
10. Stay updated on emerging network technologies, industry trends, and best practices, and make recommendations for continuous network improvement.
11. Provide technical guidance and support to network operations and support teams.
12. Ensure compliance with network standards, protocols, and regulatory requirements.
13. Document network configurations, changes, and troubleshooting procedures accurately.
14. Participate in network-related projects and initiatives, ensuring successful implementation and adherence to project timelines.
Qualifications and Skills:
1. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
2. Proven experience as a Network Planning Engineer or in a similar role.
3. In-depth knowledge of network protocols, routing protocols, and network security principles.
4. Strong understanding of network infrastructure components, including routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers.
5. Proficient in network design and architecture principles.
6. Experience with network capacity planning and performance optimization.
7. Hands-on experience with network troubleshooting and diagnostic tools.
8. Familiarity with network monitoring and management systems.
9. Knowledge of virtualization technologies and cloud networking is a plus.
10. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
11. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
12. Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
13. Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
14. Professional certifications such as CCNA, CCNP, or equivalent are highly desirable.
Note: The above job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.