Network Architect II

Job DescriptionJob Description:

NRTC is Member Driven and Technology Focused – providing solutions that help our 1,500 electric and telephone members bring all the advantages of today’s evolving technology to rural America. NRTC’s solutions are developed specifically to meet the needs of rural utilities and their customers, and include integrated broadband, managed services, smart grid, mobile and video solutions. We are a dynamic, growing cooperative with more than 800 employees operating out of eight office locations. Job Summary This position reports to the Director of Network Architecture and Engineering and will be responsible for researching, designing and deploying IP technologies across a wide variety of network vendors and applications associated with integrated Fiber to the Premise and Wireless based broadband infrastructures. This position will work with various departments within Core Network, Access Network, OSP Planning & Engineering, VoIP Engineering, and other operations and support organizations in the planning, configuration, and implementation associated with our Member’s IP routing, transport/aggregation and access network(s). The Network Architect will be responsible for providing consultative technical expertise which includes the preparation and presentation of detailed designs and configuration blueprints for complex solutions in the areas of routing, switching, wireless and security. The architect would be expected to be hands-on and would be an eventual escalation point in case of complex issues/outages. Responsibilities Architecture & Design This position builds the required collateral to represent solutions including, but not limited to, HLDs (High Level Design), LLD (Low Level Designs), BOMs (Bill of Materials), Product Quotes (with pricing), LOEs (Level of Efforts), Client Proposals and SOWs (Statement of Work). Client Facing Sales Support – Work with sales account team, interfacing directly with clients. Builds trusted advisor relationships, understanding client’s business challenges and proposing solutions Develop High Level Designs and Architectures – Create and document architectures that address member business objectives Partner Relationship Management – Develop healthy and trusted relationships with key partners Intellectual Property Development – Contribute to the development of NRTC intellectual property and industry recognition (white papers, speaking engagements, etc.) Participate in RFPs/RFI development, product evaluations, coordinate product and service selections, and ensure that pricing, terms, and conditions for supplier contracts meet industry standards while achieving optimal results for the business Participate in requirements analysis, requirements management, functional analysis, performance analysis, system design, trade studies, systems integration and test (verification) in the development and evaluation of networks and information systems Participate in the evaluation of new hardware, software, and virtualized products and solutions to support our member's service provider Core, Edge, and Aggregation network layers focusing on cost-savings, scalability, and reliability. Ensure full stack integration is achievable and network design architectures support device/product needs including Cos/QoS and network traffic prioritization Work with team leaders to develop new technologies, vendor products and equipment including development and execution of Proof-of-Concept testing procedures, perform Alpha and Beta testing by working with Engineering and Operations team members Work with team leaders in translating project requirements into standard or custom technical solutions for a service provider wide area network and cloud environments Design, build and test of Cloud Networking and Security services such as edge and core firewalls, proxies and load balancers, direct network connections with public cloud providers such as express route, direct connect, etc Develop, support, and communicate network conceptual designs, engineering policies, standards, guidelines, and procedures with service provider as well as other stakeholders Validate any implemented designs architected meet original design specifications Use lab environment as required to provide early proof of concepts for design Create Method of Procedures for configuring, testing or otherwise modifying network elements, solutions or architectures Develop documentation for testing, troubleshooting or administrating network devices or network architectures Develop test plans for evaluating new technologies or features Participate in VLAN model and standards and policy development Develop and enforce proper network segmentation standards and policy model which incorporates separation of voice and data Implement and maintain CoSQoS and packet prioritization standards and configuration based on business requirements Other duties as assigned Project Execution This position will also perform all aspects of technical deployment projects, including an implementation plan, methods of procedures, additional technical resource identification, and execution of work Responsible for the implementation of network designs that consistently deliver performance, reliability, and scalability within the established Service Level Agreements (SLAs) Provide assistance as needed to the Engineering and Operations teams for implementation, troubleshooting, and repair of network installations and customer deployments Program and configure a full stack of network equipment including routers, switches, firewall, load balancers, MPLS and Ethernet transport, and timing equipment Configure and install software, servers, routers and other network devices Monitor network performance and integrity: Develop improvements to network performance, capacity and scalability Effectively manage vendor partner relationships to ensure high performance and cost appropriate service delivery for local site technology services Spearhead first-time installations by accurately, thoroughly, and efficiently detailing requirements to stakeholders Coordinates with Project Managers on daily responsibilities including any high priority projects maintain deadlines and high levels of communication Visit jobsites as necessary ensure project quality and keeping up with progress with the different life cycle of the projects Provides oversight to projects and related tasks that meet cost, schedule, and resource constraints. Manages scope, budget and release schedule while focusing on regular and timely delivery of value Manages the contractual commitments, scopes of work, budgets, and timelines of multiple projects simultaneously ensuring end-products meet product specifications, requirements, and align with financial and schedule baselines Identify resource needs, perform quality review, and escalate functional, quality, and timeline issues appropriately. Facilitates issue resolution Tracks key project milestones, adjusting project plans and/or resources as indicated Ensures that program implementation (designs, development, testing plans, change orders, etc.) are documented Designs, organizes, prioritizes, and schedules work assignments. Shares information with other departments to ensure cross functional transfer of knowledge company wide Provide detailed network drawings and diagrams and related as-built documentation. Issues change requests to service suppliers while adhering to service lifecycle and technology roadmaps. Provides multi-tier incident support and troubleshooting during projects Conducts configuration testing, debugging and troubleshooting Completes timely post-installation documentation, perform inspections and recommend corrective action in a written, well-documented manner Other duties as assigned Tier III Operational Support This position will also provide Tier III operational support to NRTC Managed Services. Assure proper monitoring, runbooks and maintenance procedures are established including providing guidance to any managed services providers who perform these functions on behalf of our members. Act as an escalation point, providing 3rd level incident support for customers Analyze, evaluate, and communicate network capacity and performance data with the objective of driving improvements to customer’s network Work with Network Planning to manage growth and capacity plans by monitoring network performance and communicating specific capacity needs, when they arise Other duties as assigned Qualifications Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge and demonstrated expertise in many of the following protocols and technologies: Ethernet, TCP/IP, OSPF/IS-IS, BGP, MPLS (LDP/RSVP), High Availability (VRRP/HSRP/GLBP), Multicast (PIM/IGMP), QoS, HTTP, SSL, VOIP Proficient in Cisco and Juniper CLI commands Strong technical, analytical, and organizational skills associated with planning, design and implementation of complicated service provider architectures and applications Strong written and interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate complex topics in both written and verbal form Knowledge of Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF) based Ethernet Service Architectures and technologies such as ELINE, ELAN, E-ACCESS Knowledge of Optical Networking technologies such as CDA or CD/C Flex-Grid ROADM, DCI, CFP2-DCO, QSFP-DD, Coherent Optics, 16-64 QAM Advanced knowledge with routing technologies such BGP, MPLS, VPLS, Segment Routing, EVPN, ISIS-SR, OSPF-SR, BGP-LU, DHCP and DNS services, etc Familiarity with YAML, Python, Perl, or other such scripting languages Familiarity with SD-WAN and NFV technologies Strong network troubleshooting skills desired Current industry certifications: CCNP or equivalent certification highly preferred, CCDP, CISSP, ITILv3, etc. Minimum Education and Experience A Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Computer Science or equivalent experience A minimum of 5 years industry experience at a Service Provider or similar environment focused in IP routing and core network technologies Physical Demands Work is typically performed in a remote office setting with some onsite installation work Ability to lift network gear (70 lbs.) for installation purposes Occasionally travel may be required Disclaimer: The above job description summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of required responsibilities, duties and skills. The order in which responsibilities, duties and skills are listed is not significant. Powered by JazzHR dODnIVHZKC

Company Description:

NRTC – Member Driven and Technology Focused
NRTC provides solutions that help our 1,500 electric and telephone members bring all the advantages of today’s evolving technology to rural America. NRTC’s solutions are developed specifically to meet the needs of rural utilities and their customers, and include integrated smart grid solutions, advanced metering networks, next-generation energy, grid intelligence, broadband, managed services, mobile and video. We are a dynamic, growing cooperative with more than 800 employees operating out of eight office locations. We are looking to add experienced staff to our growing company to help our rural cooperative members develop their technology. Our approach is to educate and support our members as we work with them through a consultative process.

Mission
NRTC provides solutions that help our telecommunications and electric members bring all of the advantages of today’s evolving technology to rural America

Vision
We will be our members’ most trusted technology partner

Values
Our members are our reason for being
We put the needs of our members first.
We focus on delivering impactful solutions to them.
Our team is the foundation of our success
We trust each other. We cooperate with each other.
We unite to accomplish our goals together.
Our passion is supporting rural communities
We are dedicated to our members and the communities they serve.

IDEA Committee
At NRTC, we are committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Awareness in the broadest sense to honor our company values. We believe an inclusive work environment provides an atmosphere that allows all employees to attain their greatest potential and achieve the greatest benefits for our Members. The IDEA Committee is committed to furthering a supportive and welcoming workplace environment in which employees of all backgrounds and demographic characteristics can productively and cohesively work together.

Total Rewards
We are proud to offer our employees an appealing total rewards package including competitive pay and a matching 401(k) plan, along with medical (with HSA contributions from NRTC), dental, vision, and short/long term disability insurance. We also offer 12 paid company holidays, paid-time off and paid training, as well as an employee assistance program, discounted wireless plan, and so much more.

Growth and Development
At NRTC, we pride ourselves in promoting from within and developing careers through our mentorship, Educational Assistance programs, NRTC University webinars, and a learning management platform. Most of our positions are posted internally first, where we give our existing employees the opportunity to elevate their careers. NRTC also provides a mentorship program that helps employees find experienced mentors who can lead them on their professional journeys. Our educational assistance program offers an annual reimbursement of up to $5,250 per calendar year for educational costs to promote professional growth with continued education outside of NRTC. Monthly NRTC University webinars are hosted to educate our employees on other business units and departments. NRTC provides a robust learning management platform including thousands of courses for continued self-education.

Transparent Leadership
Our Executive and Senior Leadership Teams provide frequent updates with our quarterly “All Hands Meetings” both company-wide and within each one of our four business units. These meetings consist of important company updates, candid financial information, employee milestones, Employee Excellence Awards, special guests, IDEA updates and on-the-spot employee Q&A. To help encourage open communication, feedback and discussions, NRTC leadership also has an “open door policy,” and conducts numerous employee surveys which allows our employees to help shape the culture and future of NRTC.Company DescriptionNRTC – Member Driven and Technology Focused \r
NRTC provides solutions that help our 1,500 electric and telephone members bring all the advantages of today’s evolving technology to rural America. NRTC’s solutions are developed specifically to meet the needs of rural utilities and their customers, and include integrated smart grid solutions, advanced metering networks, next-generation energy, grid intelligence, broadband, managed services, mobile and video. We are a dynamic, growing cooperative with more than 800 employees operating out of eight office locations. We are looking to add experienced staff to our growing company to help our rural cooperative members develop their technology. Our approach is to educate and support our members as we work with them through a consultative process. \r
\r
Mission\r
NRTC provides solutions that help our telecommunications and electric members bring all of the advantages of today’s evolving technology to rural America\r
\r
Vision\r
We will be our members’ most trusted technology partner\r
\r
Values\r
Our members are our reason for being\r
We put the needs of our members first.\r
We focus on delivering impactful solutions to them.\r
Our team is the foundation of our success\r
We trust each other. We cooperate with each other.\r
We unite to accomplish our goals together.\r
Our passion is supporting rural communities\r
We are dedicated to our members and the communities they serve.\r
\r
IDEA Committee\r
At NRTC, we are committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Awareness in the broadest sense to honor our company values. We believe an inclusive work environment provides an atmosphere that allows all employees to attain their greatest potential and achieve the greatest benefits for our Members. The IDEA Committee is committed to furthering a supportive and welcoming workplace environment in which employees of all backgrounds and demographic characteristics can productively and cohesively work together. \r
\r
Total Rewards\r
We are proud to offer our employees an appealing total rewards package including competitive pay and a matching 401(k) plan, along with medical (with HSA contributions from NRTC), dental, vision, and short/long term disability insurance. We also offer 12 paid company holidays, paid-time off and paid training, as well as an employee assistance program, discounted wireless plan, and so much more.\r
\r
Growth and Development\r
At NRTC, we pride ourselves in promoting from within and developing careers through our mentorship, Educational Assistance programs, NRTC University webinars, and a learning management platform. Most of our positions are posted internally first, where we give our existing employees the opportunity to elevate their careers. NRTC also provides a mentorship program that helps employees find experienced mentors who can lead them on their professional journeys. Our educational assistance program offers an annual reimbursement of up to $5,250 per calendar year for educational costs to promote professional growth with continued education outside of NRTC. Monthly NRTC University webinars are hosted to educate our employees on other business units and departments. NRTC provides a robust learning management platform including thousands of courses for continued self-education. \r
\r
Transparent Leadership\r
Our Executive and Senior Leadership Teams provide frequent updates with our quarterly “All Hands Meetings” both company-wide and within each one of our four business units. These meetings consist of important company updates, candid financial information, employee milestones, Employee Excellence Awards, special guests, IDEA updates and on-the-spot employee Q&A. To help encourage open communication, feedback and discussions, NRTC leadership also has an “open door policy,” and conducts numerous employee surveys which allows our employees to help shape the culture and future of NRTC.

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