Manager, Network Administration and Operations

University of Chicago•Chicago, IL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Manager, Network Administration and Operations is responsible for the day-to-day configuration, operation, monitoring, and availability of the University of Chicago’s wired Ethernet and wireless WiFi campus network services. The role directly manages network administrators and technicians responsible for installing, configuring, troubleshooting, and maintaining network infrastructure, including switches, wireless access points, and DNS, DHCP, and IPAM services. The position ensures consistent operations through standardized procedures, run-books, and repeatable processes, and serves as the primary escalation point for Tier 1 and Tier 2 network support. The manager coordinates with the Senior Manager, Network Engineering to align operational work with infrastructure priorities. The role also manages wired and wireless network performance and availability, advises on campus fiber plant planning and operations, and develops plans and strategic designs for sustaining, improving, implementing, and upgrading the University's network.

Requirements

A college or university degree in a related field.
At least 7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s or associate degree in computer science, information technology, electrical engineering, or a related field.
At least 7 years of progressive experience in enterprise network engineering and administration.
Background in higher education or research-intensive IT environments.
Relevant certifications such as CCNP/CCIE, JNCIP/JNCIE, or equivalent.
Expertise in campus and enterprise networking, including LAN/WAN, routing and switching (Cisco and/or Juniper), wireless, and network security.
Familiarity with SD-WAN, zero trust network access (ZTNA), or SASE architectures.
Proficiency with DNS/DHCP/IPAM management platforms.
Proficiency in driving automation initiatives using network programmability, including Ansible, Python, and REST APIs.

Responsibilities

Manage network administrators and technicians responsible for configuring, installing, operating, and monitoring the campus LAN, including switches, wireless access points, and end-user connectivity infrastructure.
Oversee the performance, availability, and security of wired and wireless network services across campus, including monitoring, incident response, and escalation management.
Oversee monitoring and troubleshooting of LAN switches, wireless access points, DNS/DHCP services, and related connectivity systems; ensure timely incident resolution and accurate remediation documentation.
Serve as the primary contact for connectivity issues escalated from the IT Services help desk, coordinating with IT and facilities stakeholders to resolve service disruptions.
Develop, maintain, and enforce standard operating procedures, run-books, and repeatable processes to support consistent service delivery and minimize unplanned downtime.
Analyze network usage trends and prepare operational metrics to assess service health and team workload.
Develop and document Tier 1 and Tier 2 data network support procedures for troubleshooting, change communication, and service restoration; evaluate operational effectiveness.
Maintain accurate network asset configuration records, incident logs, and change management documentation in accordance with ITS standards.
Manage employee performance by setting annual goals, allocating resources, conducting performance assessments, and supporting professional development and career growth.
Encourage team participation in improving operational processes, documentation, and ITS service delivery practices.
Maintain current knowledge of network administration technologies, tools, and best practices through professional development, vendor resources, and peer networks.
Coordinate with the Senior Manager, Network Engineering to align operations with infrastructure priorities and deploy team capacity against maintenance schedules and project commitments.
Interface with internal IT teams and end-user stakeholders to address network connectivity needs and maintain operational service levels across campus.
Manage the performance and availability of the University's wired and wireless networks.
Advise on the planning, execution, and operation of the campus fiber plant.
Develop plans to sustain and improve the University's Networking Services and Information Technologies (NSIT) network.
Create strategic plans for network design, implementation, and upgrades or modifications to existing networks.
Perform other related work as needed.