IT/Network Specialist

Rio Grande Electric Cooperative, Inc.•Brackettville, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The IT/Network Specialist will efficiently and effectively maintain the smooth operation and security of network devices, such as routers, switches, firewalls, servers. This role involves performing network optimization, performance monitoring, and problem resolution. The specialist will manage the RGEC’s local area network (LAN) and Wi-Fi connectivity, monitor network traffic, and address any issues that may occur. They will oversee protocol compatibility, conduct system adjustments, and suggest enhancements. Additionally, the role includes testing new products, troubleshooting networks, and contributing to the creation and documentation of technical standards and application interfaces. The specialist will also aid in the development, drafting, and upkeep of up-to-date network configurations and diagrams, and stay informed about the latest security and networking best practices to provide optimal solutions and safeguards for company systems. They will examine assessments of network vulnerabilities and propose suitable corrective actions, engage in network planning, architecture design, and engineering, and perform additional duties as requested. Maintaining confidentiality and complying with safety rules and procedures are also key aspects of this position.

Requirements

A minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience working in the information technology field as a network specialist
Associate’s degree
Expertise in establishing Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) is essential
Knowledge and understanding of various networking protocols, such as BGP, RIP, EIGRP, TCP/IP
Must be skilled in the configuration use and maintenance of Cisco switches and routers
Must be skilled in creating and evaluating Access Control Lists (ACLs) to strengthen network segmentation and security
Ability to carry out a variety of activities with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail
Able to communicate technical information and to provide advice and assistance to Cooperative personnel on all aspects of computer operations
Able to learn and apply any technical knowledge needed to troubleshoot hardware and software problems, and must be able to deploy new software applications
Must have experience with Microsoft Windows Server operating systems, Microsoft Windows desktop operating systems, Microsoft Office, computer networking, networking protocols and methods of data communications
Possess good interpersonal skills including the ability to maintain a harmonious relationship with all Cooperative personnel and the members
Possess oral and written communications skills in the English language
Ability to multitask and willingness to take on new responsibilities in a constantly evolving environment
Able to maintain confidential information
Possess a valid Texas Driver’s License and be insurable with the Cooperative’s insurance carrier
Must be or become certified in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of SIEMs (Security Information and Event Management Systems) and application whitelisting

Responsibilities

Manage the RGEC’s local area network (LAN) and Wi-Fi connectivity
Responsible for monitoring network traffic and addressing any issues that may occur
Oversee protocol compatibility, conducts system adjustments, and suggests enhancements
Test new products, troubleshoots networks, and contribute to the creation and documentation of technical standards and applications interfaces
Aid in the development, drafting, and upkeep of up-to-date network configurations and diagrams
Keep abreast with the latest in security and networking best practices to provide optimal solutions and safeguards for company systems
Examine assessments of network vulnerabilities and propose suitable corrective actions
Engage in network planning, architecture design, and engineering
Perform additional duties as requested
Maintain confidentiality
Learn and comply with Cooperative’s safety rules and procedures