Project Support Specialist

The Project Support Specialist will join the Data Networking team, providing pre-planning, design, deployment, testing, and migration support for plant networking initiatives at Gary Works and Midwest Works Plants. The role focuses primarily on wireline networking support, with a strong emphasis on fiber optic networking solutions. The candidate will also support daily operations within the USS Data Networking team and participate as a key member of project teams to deliver reliable and secure network solutions in heavy industry environments.

• Provide technical pre-planning, design, deployment, and migration support for plant networking projects.
• Participate as an integral team member in delivering successful network solutions.
• Support data network incident and event management through investigation, troubleshooting, reporting, and resolution.
• Perform root cause analysis and manage corrective actions.
• Collaborate on the design of network solutions using approved standard technologies with internal teams, vendors, and partners.
• Monitor data networks for performance, security, and stability, taking proactive measures to address issues.
• Support all project phases from design to physical installation, including hands-on deployment in industrial environments.
• Provide on-call support and participate in a 24/7 rotation to manage outages, migrations, and incidents.

• Demonstrated experience supporting data networking (Cisco Wired LAN technologies) in enterprise environments, with a focus on fiber and cabling infrastructure.
• Proven success in participating or leading enterprise-level projects in Data Networking, Network Security, or Cyber Security compliance.
• Experience working hands-on in steel mill or heavy industry environments (preferred).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage complex technical issues from identification through implementation.
• Excellent time management and multitasking abilities with strong prioritization skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills; able to communicate professionally with customers, vendors, and remote teams.
• Experience managing vendor relationships for incident management, project coordination, and SLA maintenance.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including participation in on-call rotations and plant-based work as required.
• Self-starter with a results-oriented mindset and ability to work effectively within technical support teams.

• Proficiency in wired LAN technologies (Cisco) and fiber optic infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of network performance monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimization.
• Experience with network security principles and enterprise cybersecurity practices.
• Ability to design, document, and implement network solutions.
• Skilled in using diagnostic and monitoring tools for network analysis.
• Proficient in coordinating across technical and vendor teams for deployment and incident resolution.