IT Director, Network Engineering and Operations

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

3d • $200,000 - $212,000

About The Position

This role is critical to provide dedicated leadership for our increasingly complex Microsoft and cloud infrastructure environment, which now spans on-prem Windows servers, M365, and multiple public cloud platforms. Without dedicated leadership, the team continues to face increased operational risk and reduced ability to maintain reliable services.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 10+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, engineering, or related field. Master’s degree strongly preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in network engineering and operations, with at least 3 years in supervisory or managerial roles. Managing large-scale, complex enterprise networks in higher education.
• In-depth expertise with Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, or similar enterprise networking platforms.
• Strong knowledge of routing, switching, wireless, and network security protocols and technologies.
• Familiarity with cloud networking, virtualization, SDN, NAC, and related fields.
• Proficient in network monitoring, management, and automation tools.
• Demonstrated success in leading and developing technical teams.
• Clear and effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical, strategic planning, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Directs the design, implementation, and administration of the data network infrastructure including both campus and off-campus sites.
• Leads and mentors a multidisciplinary team of network engineers, architects, and operational staff.
• Develops, implements, and maintains high-availability network services, including LAN, WAN, wireless, and remote access.
• Establishes and enforces network policies, standards, procedures, and best practices for performance, security, and compliance.
• Oversees network monitoring, incident response, vulnerability management, and disaster recovery planning.
• Collaborates with campus stakeholders to understand evolving connectivity needs and supports strategic initiatives and projects.
• Manages vendor relationships, contracts, and procurement related to network hardware, software, and services.
• Prepares and administers budgets for network operations, equipment refresh cycles, and technology upgrades.
• Stays abreast of emerging technologies and trends to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
• Ensures ongoing documentation, reporting, and communication with senior leadership regarding network health, projects, risks, and metrics.
• Participates in University-wide committees and workgroups related to IT infrastructure and security.
• Manages employees through subordinates, usually other managers.
• Establishes performance goals, allocates resources and assesses policies for direct subordinates.
• Determines plans to sustain and improve the University's Networking Services and Information Technologies (NSIT) network.
• Creates strategic plans for network design, implementation, and upgrades/modifications to existing networks.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Benefits

• The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.
• Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees