Network Engineer I

University of Maine System • Portland, ME

6d • $85,000 - $95,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The University of Maine System is seeking three Network Engineers I to join our Infrastructure team. Two positions are based at the University of Maine campus in Orono, and one position is based at the University of Southern Maine Portland campus. Applicants should indicate their preferred campus location in their cover letter, however, placement will be based on organizational needs and candidate qualifications. These positions are eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. Because the roles require regular on-campus presence and the ability to respond to operational needs, applicants must live, or be willing to relocate, within approximately one hour of their assigned campus. As a Network Engineer, you’ll work with enterprise-class networking technologies to design, implement, maintain, and secure wired, wireless, voice, video, and data communications systems. You’ll collaborate with experienced engineers and IT professionals to support a reliable, secure, and high-performing network environment serving students, faculty, researchers, staff, and communities throughout Maine.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience supporting enterprise network infrastructure.
• Experience supporting Windows, macOS, and Linux environments.
• Knowledge of enterprise Local Area Network (LAN), Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), and telecommunication technologies.
• Knowledge of network routing, switching, Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Domain Name System (DNS), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and related protocols.
• Understanding of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), unified communications, and video technologies.
• Working knowledge of network security principles, firewalls, authentication, and access controls.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate technical information effectively to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to prioritize multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid driver's license.

Nice To Haves

• Enterprise routing, switching, wireless, and telecommunications technologies.
• Network automation or scripting (Python, PowerShell, Bash, etc.).
• Cloud networking environments.
• Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, or Palo Alto networking technologies.
• Higher education or other large, distributed enterprise environments.
• Industry certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Juniper Networks Certified Associate (JNCIA), CompTIA Network+, or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot enterprise network infrastructure.
• Support wired, wireless, voice, video, and data communications systems.
• Monitor network performance and resolve complex connectivity issues.
• Implement networking technologies that improve reliability, security, and scalability.
• Collaborate with campus IT teams, vendors, and service providers on infrastructure projects.
• Support enterprise network operations, including participation in an on-call rotation.
• Contribute to automation and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency.
• Maintain a strong commitment to cybersecurity, system reliability, and outstanding customer service.

Benefits

• Competitive salary: $85,000–$95,000 commensurate with education and experience.
• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts (FSA), and Health Savings Account (HSA) options.
• Employer-paid benefits, including basic life insurance and long-term disability coverage, with additional voluntary coverage options available.
• Retirement plan through TIAA with 10% employer contribution and opportunities for additional tax-deferred retirement savings.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation and sick leave, plus 13 paid holidays each year.
• Tuition waiver program for employees, including graduate courses and Maine Law, plus substantial tuition discounts for eligible spouses and dependent children.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness programs supporting your health and well-being.
• Professional development and opportunities to grow your career within Maine's public university system.
• Additional voluntary benefits, including pet insurance, home and auto insurance discounts, and supplemental disability and life insurance options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level