Network Administrator

About the Role

The Network Administrator supports and maintains the company’s network infrastructure across multiple manufacturing sites within a shared services model. This role ensures the reliability, security, and performance of wired and wireless networks, servers, and related systems that enable plant operations and corporate connectivity. The Network Administrator collaborates with IT, plant leadership, and shared service teams to troubleshoot issues, implement upgrades, and optimize network performance in a dynamic production environment.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and maintain routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points across corporate and plant locations.
• Monitor and troubleshoot network connectivity issues to minimize downtime and support production uptime.
• Support network security by managing user access, VPNs, and firewall rules per company standards.
• Assist with managing servers and network-related systems such as DNS, DHCP, and file sharing.
• Maintain documentation of network topology, equipment, and configuration changes.
• Collaborate with shared service IT teams to ensure consistent standards, security, and performance across all sites.
• Participate in the installation, expansion, and maintenance of network infrastructure, including pulling and terminating network cabling. Work may involve lifts, ladders, tight or elevated spaces, and challenging industrial environments.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the network department.
• Support IT help desk and systems teams with escalated network issues and general technical support.
• Travel 25%-50% to regional locations, sometimes at short notice.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Networking, or a related field required; Bachelor’s degree preferred. Equivalent work experience or relevant certifications may be considered in lieu of degree.
• 3-5 years of experience in network administration, desktop support, or IT infrastructure role (internship or hands-on experience in a manufacturing or multi-site environment preferred).
• Advanced understanding of TCP/IP networking, VLANs, and network routing.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Windows Server environments.
• Experience with network monitoring tools and troubleshooting utilities.
• Understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals and safe networking practices.

Qualifications

Certifications (Preferred): CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, or similar networking certification.

• Strong written and oral communication.
• Organization and attention to detail.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Time management.
• Systems analysis.
• Mathematical and deductive reasoning.
• Critical thinking.
• Active learning.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly on a regular basis.
  • Must be able to stand for 8-10 hours a day.
  • Bend, stand, squat, and twist repeatedly.
  • Ability to work in confined areas and at a computer terminal for extended periods.
• Work Environment:
  • Moderate noise (e.g., business office with computers, phones, and printers; light traffic).
  • Typical office environment with occasional industrial settings.