Network Administrator

SMS DATA PRODUCTS GROUP, INC presents an opportunity for a Network Administrator at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Kirtland Air Force Base. The role requires managing network operations, maintaining infrastructure, and ensuring secure, reliable connectivity across AFRL’s systems.

• Oversee the daily operations, maintenance, and support of the network infrastructure.
• Monitor network performance, ensuring network availability, reliability, and security.
• Proactively identify and resolve network issues, troubleshooting network problems as they arise.
• Collaborate with network engineering teams and other departments to ensure cohesive network support and management.
• Document network configurations, changes, and operational procedures.
• Participate in the implementation of network security measures in line with NIST and DISA standards.

• 3+ years of experience in network administration or a related field.
• Familiarity with Ruckus/Cisco wired (copper/fiber) and wireless equipment, and boundary devices.
• Basic understanding of network protocols and services (e.g., OSPF, DHCP, BGP, IPSec).
• Experience with network monitoring and management tools.
• Good problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Effective documentation and communication skills.
• Ability to analyze data and network performance metrics.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to keep up‑to‑date with the latest networking technologies and trends.

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Ruckus Certified Networking Associate (RCNA) or Network+.
• DoD 8750 IAT Level II, CompTIA Security+ or equivalent (CCNA‑Security, CySA+, GICSP, GSEC, CND, SSCP).
• Ability to acquire and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance, or higher.
• Industry
  
  Experience:
  
  Previous experience in a DoD environment.
• Certification:
  Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP).
• Scripting and Automation
  
  Skills:
  
  Knowledge of scripting languages (like Python) for network automation tasks is increasingly valuable.
• Project Management:
  Experience with large‑scale network deployment or upgrade projects.
• Security
  
  Skills:
  
  Understanding of network security measures, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and secure network architecture, and familiarity with certificate based authentication and encryption devices (e.g., TACLANE).

Equal Opportunity Employer – SMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.