Network Specialist - REACH Technician

This is a Network Specialist position assigned to the REACH Program – the U.S. Department of State’s (DoS) crisis response communications office.  This role can require up to 50% travel depending on world events.  

Description of Duties: 

• Network Design and Implementation:
• Designs, builds, and implements network systems
• Performs design implementation, testing, and problem isolation/resolution for multiple networking systems in accordance with Department of State standards
• Manages the testing, installation, and support of network communications, including LAN/WAN systems
• Plans large-scale systems projects through vendor comparison and cost studies

Technical Guidance and Support:

• Provides technical guidance for directing and monitoring information systems operations
• Provides internal consulting, technical guidance, information, and support to various department groups
• Provides assistance and oversight for all information systems operations activities, including computer and telecommunications/communications operations, data entry, data control, LAN/WAN administration and operations support, operating systems programming, system security policy procedures, and/or web strategy and operations

Network Operations and Maintenance:

• Compiles records and reports concerning network operations and maintenance
• Troubleshoots network performance issues and makes improvements to the network
• Analyzes network traffic and provides capacity planning solutions
• Provides the routine testing and analysis of all elements of the network facilities systems
• Utilizes software and hardware tools to identify and diagnose complex problems and factors affecting network performance
• Experience with Command Prompt, PowerShell, Putty, Remote Desktop Connection, Active Directory, Exchange Server, and ServiceNow
• Experience with user account creation and maintenance

Communication and Consultation:

• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally to provide client/user consultation during installations
• Manages records, processes and disseminates network device information between DoS Divisions
• Participates in briefings, design reviews, program reviews, and technical interchange meetings
• Provides input to policy level discussions regarding standards and technical viability of intended systems requirements
• Ability to conduct oneself in a professional manner with VIPs and other high level government personnel

Quality Assurance and Evaluation:

• Provides quality assurance review and the evaluation of new and existing software products
• Specialized Knowledge and Experience:
• Experience with COMSEC inline network encryptors (e.g., General Dynamics - KG-175 family) and Viasat encryption devices 
• Strong knowledge pertaining to Network Administration:
• Ethernet switching, TCP/IP subnetting & routing (static & dynamic), DHCP, DNS, Cisco network equipment (routers, switches, firewalls, etc.)

Additional Responsibilities:

• Provides support in various endeavors sponsored by the Diplomatic Technology (DT) Bureau in support of the Department of State DT technical mission, including inventory control, excess of obsolete equipment, periodic housekeeping/ deep cleaning, office duties, etc
• Responsible for maintaining and monitoring access control rooms to ensure the integrity and security of restricted areas including carrying out entry authorization protocols
• Requires periodic overseas travel to DoS facilities in support of equipment installations and training.
• Job may require heavy lifting at times
• Administrative tasks such as daily reports and travel reports as required
• Demonstrates readiness to assume new projects and responsibilities as assigned within the program
• This position requires a high level of technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a dynamic and global environment
• The Network Specialist will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the Department of State's network system operations
• Requires worldwide availability and periodic overseas travel in support of installations
• Job will require heavy lifting at times
• Administrative tasks as assigned
• Other duties as assigned

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering and 5+ years of relevant experience; masters and 3+ years; may accept additional experience in Information Systems and Technology Management in lieu of degree
• 3+ years experiencing providing technical installation support in a government and/or large commercial environment
• BICSI fiber, copper and technician certifications are desired, but not required. 5+ years installation experience will be accepted in lieu of BICSI certification
• Formal industry certifications such as Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) and/or Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP – various)
• Experience with site surveys, satellite acquisition, installation, configuration and troubleshooting tactical VSAT
• Excellent communications skills (oral and written) and well versed with Microsoft Office software 
• Candidate will work closely with company, contractor personnel, and Government personnel to conduct operational activities and must work well in a team environment
• Technically capable, fast learner, quality minded, adaptable, self-motivated, and able to work independent of supervision

• Detail-minded with an extraordinary work ethic

Required Clearance:

• US Citizenship
• Active secret clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain a top secret clearance