Network Operations Analyst (ONSITE ONLY POSITION)

Exela Pharma Sciences•Lenoir, NC

26d•Onsite

About The Position

The Network Analyst is a critical technical role within Exela’s Information Services organization. This position is responsible for designing, maintaining, and optimizing Exela’s network infrastructure across all locations, while helping lead our transition from traditional on-premises systems to a modern cloud-enabled architecture. The ideal candidate is a hands-on network engineer with strong SD-WAN expertise, deep knowledge of routing and switching, and experience moving organizations toward cloud-based infrastructure in Azure and/or AWS. This role also requires strong proficiency in Active Directory/Entra ID, identity management, and foundational on-prem office administration. This is a highly technical, problem-solving role for someone who wants to strengthen Exela’s network reliability, security, and scalability as we continue our digital transformation journey. We are looking for a local candidate, than can be onsite 5 days per week. This is not a remote position.

Requirements

Strong hands-on experience with SD-WAN technologies (Meraki, Fortinet, Palo Alto, VeloCloud, etc.).
Deep understanding of routing, switching, VLANs, firewalls, VPN tunnels, and network security.
Proficiency with Azure (preferred) or AWS cloud networking components.
Advanced knowledge of Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, GPOs, and identity/security concepts.
Experience with monitoring tools (SolarWinds, Meraki Dashboard, Azure Monitor, etc.).
Ability to troubleshoot complex multi-layer network and authentication issues.
Strong analytical, documentation, and problem-solving skills.
Clear, calm communicator — able to explain technical concepts to non-technical users
Associate’s or Bachelor’s in Information Technology, Networking, Cybersecurity, or related field preferred.
3–7 years of hands-on experience in network engineering or system administration.
Experience designing, deploying, or supporting SD-WAN solutions.

Nice To Haves

Cloud certifications (Azure Administrator, Azure Network Engineer, AWS Solutions Architect, etc.) preferred.
Network certifications (CCNA, CCNP, Network+, Security+, etc.) highly desired.

Responsibilities

Administer, maintain, and troubleshoot LAN/WAN environments across multiple Exela sites.
Lead SD-WAN architecture, configuration, monitoring, and optimization to improve resiliency and performance.
Configure and maintain switches, firewalls, VPNs, wireless networks, and routing protocols.
Monitor network performance, bandwidth utilization, latency, and application routing.
Maintain accurate network documentation, diagrams, asset lists, and configuration history.
Conduct root-cause analysis for network disruptions and implement long-term preventative solutions.
Support the transition from on-premises infrastructure to Azure and/or AWS cloud services.
Assist with designing hybrid network architectures (VPN, ExpressRoute, DirectConnect, etc.).
Deploy and manage cloud networking components: VNETs, subnets, routing tables, load balancers, NSGs, firewalls, etc.
Implement cloud-first strategies for reliability, scalability, and disaster recovery improvements.
Maintain on-prem to cloud connectivity with secure, high-performance integrations.
Administer and troubleshoot Active Directory, Group Policy, OUs, DNS/DHCP, and identity lifecycle processes.
Support and maintain Entra ID/Azure AD synchronization models and conditional access policies.
Ensure identity security best practices: MFA enforcement, least privilege, access governance.
Support M365 connectivity and authentication troubleshooting (Teams, Exchange, SharePoint).
Assist with server administration (Windows Server, VM infrastructure, backups, patching).
Manage local hardware including network closets, cabling, UPS systems, and rack environments.
Support configuration and maintenance of office equipment including printers, scanners, and local applications.
Maintain site resiliency including failover systems, redundant internet circuits, and monitoring tools.
Monitor and respond to network-related security alerts and vulnerabilities.
Assist with firewall rule reviews, segmentation improvements, and access control enforcement.
Ensure network designs comply with Exela’s quality, data integrity, and regulatory requirements (GxP, 21 CFR Part 11, etc.).
Work closely with the IT Supervisor and IT Manager to execute network and cloud roadmap initiatives.
Provide Tier 3 technical escalation support for complex networking and connectivity issues.
Share insights and recommendations for continuous improvement and modernization opportunities.