Network Specialist – REACH Technician

SAIC•Springfield, VA

About The Position

The Network Specialist is assigned to the REACH Program, the U.S. Department of State’s crisis response communications office. The role supports reliable and efficient Department of State network operations and requires worldwide availability, with travel that may reach 50% depending on world events and periodic overseas trips for equipment installations and training. The position requires a high level of technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a dynamic, global environment. The specialist designs, builds, implements, tests, and supports network systems, including LAN/WAN communications, in accordance with Department of State standards. The role provides technical guidance and operational support across information systems and telecommunications activities, troubleshoots and improves network performance, analyzes traffic and capacity needs, and evaluates software products. It also includes consultation with users and government personnel, participation in technical reviews and briefings, administrative reporting, inventory and equipment support, and maintaining access-control procedures for restricted areas. Heavy lifting may be required at times; other duties and projects may be assigned. SAIC is a mission integrator serving defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets. It employs approximately 23,000 people and is headquartered in Reston, Virginia.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or Engineering and at least 5 years of relevant experience; alternatively, a master’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant experience, or additional Information Systems and Technology Management experience in lieu of a degree.
At least 3 years of experience providing technical installation support in a government or large commercial environment.
Experience with Command Prompt, PowerShell, PuTTY, Remote Desktop Connection, Active Directory, Exchange Server, and ServiceNow.
Experience with user account creation and maintenance.
Experience with COMSEC inline network encryptors, such as the General Dynamics KG-175 family, and Viasat encryption devices.
Strong network administration knowledge, including Ethernet switching, TCP/IP subnetting and static and dynamic routing, DHCP, DNS, and Cisco routers, switches, and firewalls.
Experience with site surveys, satellite acquisition, and installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of tactical VSAT.
Excellent oral and written communication skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office software.
Ability to work effectively with company, contractor, and government personnel in a team environment.
Ability to learn quickly, adapt, work independently without supervision, and maintain a quality-minded approach.
Detail-mindedness and a strong work ethic.
U.S. citizenship.
Active Secret clearance and ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.
Ability to travel worldwide, including periodic overseas travel; travel may be up to 50% depending on world events.
Ability to perform work that may require heavy lifting.

Nice To Haves

BICSI fiber, copper, and technician certifications; at least 5 years of installation experience may be accepted in lieu of BICSI certification.
Formal industry certifications such as Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) and/or Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP).

Responsibilities

Design, build, implement, test, and troubleshoot network systems in accordance with Department of State standards.
Manage testing, installation, and support of network communications, including LAN/WAN systems.
Plan large-scale systems projects through vendor comparisons and cost studies.
Provide technical guidance, internal consulting, information, and support to department groups and information systems operations.
Assist with and oversee information systems activities, including computer and telecommunications operations, data entry and control, LAN/WAN administration, operating systems programming, system security procedures, and web strategy and operations.
Compile records and reports concerning network operations and maintenance.
Troubleshoot network performance issues, make network improvements, analyze traffic, and provide capacity-planning solutions.
Conduct routine testing and analysis of network facility systems and use software and hardware tools to diagnose complex problems affecting network performance.
Create and maintain user accounts.
Consult with clients and users during installations and communicate clearly and professionally.
Manage, process, and disseminate network-device information between Department of State divisions.
Participate in briefings, design reviews, program reviews, and technical interchange meetings; provide input to policy discussions concerning standards and technical viability of system requirements.
Conduct oneself professionally with VIPs and other senior government personnel.
Provide quality assurance reviews and evaluate new and existing software products.
Support Department of State Diplomatic Technology Bureau activities, including inventory control, disposal of obsolete equipment, housekeeping, deep cleaning, and office duties.
Maintain and monitor access-control rooms and carry out entry-authorization protocols to protect restricted areas.
Travel periodically overseas to Department of State facilities to support equipment installations and training; remain available for worldwide assignments.
Complete daily reports, travel reports, and other administrative tasks as required.
Take on new projects and responsibilities as assigned, including other duties as assigned.
Perform work that may require heavy lifting.