Network Engineer

At Associated Electric Cooperative, we're committed to providing reliable energy to the communities we serve with passion and precision. We're a tight-knit team dedicated to keeping the lights on and the energy flowing smoothly across our expansive network

From technical to operational to professional disciplines, our team brings a wide variety of skills, talents, and expertise to the table. We believe in both dedicating ourselves to excellence and investing in your growth.

Design the Network That Powers the Grid. Keep Millions Connected.

Join a high-impact team responsible for implementing and maintaining the network infrastructure that supports Associated Electric Cooperative and its member systems. As a Network Engineer, your work will directly support the systems that keep power flowing across the region, securely, reliably, and at scale.

This is a hands-on, engineering-focused role. You’ll work with core infrastructure across multiple data centers, engineer connectivity, optimize performance, automate responses, and ensure uptime for critical operational and enterprise systems. You’ll troubleshoot complex issues, contribute to incident response efforts, and help drive improvements through scalable automation and intelligent monitoring.

If you're eager to solve real-world challenges, build resilient systems, and contribute to a mission that matters, your work will have a purpose here.

What You’ll Do

• Lead Projects: Drive medium to large-scale initiatives from concept to delivery, aligning technical execution with business objectives.

• Engineer & Implement Solutions: Assist in designing and delivering scalable and secure infrastructure in collaboration with engineers, stakeholders, vendors, and contractors.

• Incident Response & Compliance: Support and triage incidents, conduct risk/impact assessments, and help ensure compliance with CIP, SERC, and other regulatory frameworks.

• Strategic Thinking: Stay ahead of emerging technologies and evolving systems needs to influence architectural decisions and guide modernization efforts.

• Mentor & Collaborate: Support junior engineers, participate in design reviews, and serve as a go-to technical resource on the team.

• Document & Share Knowledge: Maintain clear, high-quality documentation of designs, incidents, and processes to support operational continuity and team learning.

• Coordination: Work closely with application support teams to deeply understand their pain points and deliver tailored network solutions that remove friction. Coordinate contractors for planning and performing various work, ensuring timely and effective delivery of technology and connectivity.

What You’ll Need

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field, or equivalent technical training, certifications, or experience.

• Typically, 3+ years of experience in a network engineering or infrastructure role.

• Proficiency in networking fundamentals, infrastructure design, and relevant automation or scripting tools.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice to Have

• Experience with Cisco network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls.

• Familiarity with SD-WAN, BGP, OSPF, or cloud networking technologies.

• Exposure to regulated industries (e.g., energy, utilities, and finance).

What Associated provides:

• We are committed to rewarding talent with top pay. Your efforts will be recognized with a total compensation package that reflects your experience and contributions.

• Plan for your future with confidence We offer a robust 401(k) program with a generous employer match to help you build the financial future you deserve.

• We know how important work-life integration is. Recharge with PTO and enjoy paid holidays, ensuring you have time to unwind and pursue your passions outside of work.

• Your health matters to us Stay covered beginning on your first day of employment with our premier healthcare plan that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.

At Associated Electric Cooperative, all of our 700+ employees across MO/AR/OK territory play a crucial role in powering our mission Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, you'll find endless opportunities for career development here. Join us in an environment where your contribution is valued, and your career can thrive as we work together to keep the lights on

Ready to Energize your career? Visit our website at www.aeci.org/careers to learn more about Associated and apply for a position.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

AECI is fully committed to the concept and practice of equal opportunity in all aspects of employment. Please reference the contact information below if you require assistance in filling out an application. Individuals with disabilities should request reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to an appointment.

An equal opportunity employer and provider/disability/veteran. (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf)