Idea Network Evaluator

About the role

At Ashley Furniture, the IDEA Network Evaluator is responsible for assessing, monitoring, and optimizing the performance, security, and reliability of Ashley's enterprise network infrastructure. This role ensures that network systems align with business objectives and industry best practices.

Responsibilities

• Network Assessment & Analysis:
  • Conduct comprehensive evaluations of network architecture, topology, and design
  • Analyze network performance metrics, bandwidth utilization, and traffic patterns
  • Identify bottlenecks, vulnerabilities, and areas for improvement
  • Review network documentation and ensure accuracy
• Performance Monitoring:
  • Monitor network uptime, latency, and throughput
  • Evaluate Quality of Service (QoS) implementations
  • Assess load balancing and redundancy mechanisms
  • Track and report on Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
• Security Evaluation:
  • Review network security protocols and access controls
  • Assess firewall configurations and intrusion detection systems
  • Evaluate compliance with security policies and industry standards
  • Identify potential security risks and recommend mitigation strategies
• Testing & Validation:
  • Conduct network stress tests and disaster recovery simulations
  • Validate backup and failover procedures
  • Test new network implementations before deployment
  • Verify configuration changes and updates
• Documentation & Reporting:
  • Create detailed network evaluation reports with findings and recommendations
  • Document network configurations, changes, and procedures
  • Provide regular status updates to management and stakeholders
  • Maintain network inventory and asset records
• Collaboration & Support:
  • Work closely with IT teams, network engineers, and system administrators
  • Provide technical guidance on network optimization
  • Participate in network planning and upgrade projects
  • Support incident response and troubleshooting efforts

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or related field (preferred)
• Certifications: Relevant certifications (CCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+, or equivalent)
• Experience: 3-5 years of experience in network administration or engineering
• Proven experience: with network evaluation and assessment methodologies
• Hands-on experience: with enterprise-level networking equipment

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), and switching
• Proficiency with network monitoring and analysis tools (Wireshark, SolarWinds, PRTG, etc.)
• Experience with firewalls, VPNs, and network security technologies
• Familiarity with wireless networks (802.11 standards)
• Understanding of network automation and scripting (Python, PowerShell)

Soft Skills

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Time management and prioritization capabilities

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced certifications (CCIE, CISSP, or equivalent)
• Experience with SD-WAN technologies
• Knowledge of cloud networking (Azure, AWS)
• Experience in retail or multi-location enterprise environments
• Familiarity with ITIL frameworks

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off; increases with years of service
• Generous Employee Discount on home furnishings
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Tuition Assistance
• Ashley Wellness Centers (location specific)
• 401(k) and Profit Sharing
• Life Insurance