Hardware​/Network Admin Security Clearance

Position: Hardware/Network Admin with Security Clearance
Responsibilities We are looking for a highly skilled and experienced Lead Hardware/Network Administrator to oversee the management, maintenance, and optimization of our IT infrastructure, including hardware systems and networks. In this leadership role, you will direct a team of administrators and technicians, ensuring the stability, security, and scalability of systems critical to the organization's operations. The ideal candidate is a results-driven professional with deep technical expertise, strong leadership attributes, and a passion for bringing innovative solutions to complex IT challenges.

Key Responsibilities Leadership and Team Management
* Lead and Mentor Team Members:
Supervise and mentor a team of hardware and network technicians and administrators, promoting growth and collaboration.

* Project Leadership:
Take ownership of infrastructure-related projects, including upgrades, migrations, and the implementation of new hardware and networking solutions.

* Resource Allocation:
Allocate and manage resources effectively to ensure the timely completion of projects and efficient system support.

* Training and Development:
Provide technical training and development opportunities to team members, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and organizational goals.
Hardware Administration
* Supervise the installation, configuration, maintenance, and upgrading of servers, workstations, desktops, and peripherals to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

* Oversee hardware inventory tracking and procurement, optimizing asset management and cost controls.

* Analyze hardware requirements and lead initiatives to upgrade or replace outdated equipment for improved performance and efficiency.

* Develop and implement preventive maintenance and lifecycle management strategies to reduce downtime and extend hardware lifespans.
Network Administration
* Network Design and Optimization:
Design, implement, and maintain secure and scalable network infrastructures, including LAN, WAN, VPN, and wireless solutions.

* Network Availability and Operation:
Improve network availability, monitor bandwidth utilization, and troubleshoot connectivity and performance bottlenecks.

* Security Management:
Implement and maintain network security mechanisms, including firewalls, intrusion prevention/detection systems (IPS/IDS), and access controls.

* Network Monitoring:
Manage advanced monitoring and diagnostics tools to ensure high availability and quick resolution of network-related outages.

* Plan and oversee routine testing, backup procedures, and disaster recovery solutions to ensure data integrity and business continuity.
Qualifications

Required:

* Bachelor's degree with 8-10 years' experience, MS with 6-8 years or PhD with 3-5 years in Computer Science, IT, or equivalent experience.

* Minimum of 7+ years in hardware and network administration, with at least 2+ years in a leadership role.

* Proven track record of managing enterprise-level IT infrastructure and networks.

* Must Possess and maintain an active TS/SCI Clearance.

* Hardware Expertise
* Advanced understanding of computer hardware systems, including servers, workstations, peripherals, and storage devices.

* Expertise in hardware and device lifecycle management, procurement, and vendor coordination.

* Network Expertise
* In-depth knowledge of network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, VPNs, etc.).

* Experience with networking hardware configuration and troubleshooting (switches, routers, access points, firewalls).

* Experience managing cloud and hybrid networking solutions (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud) and SD-WAN technology.

* Leadership & Management Skills
* Proven ability to lead and manage a team of IT professionals.

* Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

* Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for cross-departmental collaboration and vendor interaction.

* Technical Troubleshooting
* Expert-level problem-solving abilities and the capacity to resolve complex technical problems effectively.

* Extensive experience using monitoring and diagnostic tools such as Solar Winds, Nagios, or PRTG.

* Security Implementation
* Strong knowledge of access controls, encryption, firewalls, and monitoring systems.

* Knowledge of intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS).

* Documentation & Compliance
* Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and IT security compliance standards, such as ITIL, ISO 27001/9001, GDPR, or NIST.

* Proficiency in creating detailed system documentation, reports, and technical instructions.

Preferred Qualifications

* Certifications:

* Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Professional (CCNP)

* CompTIA Network+, Security+, or A+

* Microsoft Certified:
Azure Administrator Associate or MCSE

* VMWare Certified Professional (VCP)

* Experience with virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V) and containerization (e.g., Kubernetes, Docker).

* Knowledge of high-availability setups, redundancy…