Network Coordination Engineer
About the role
This individual will be central point of contact for the network services organization. They will coordinate all network-related readiness activities required for a new product/model launch, ensuring infrastructure (LAN, Wireless LAN, Cellular), connectivity, and systems integration are delivered on time, tested and validated, and aligned with launch milestones. The role blends technical coordination, project management, and manufacturing support. They will work closely with other Network and Manufacturing teams during equipment deployment and launch.
Responsibilities
- Launch coordination & planning
- Develop and maintain launch timelines, milestones, and project deliverables
- Carefully track progress and ensure deadlines are met
- Network & infrastructure readiness
- Aid in coordinating provisioning of Network devices/systems
- Verify that all network devices/systems are functioning properly (end-to-end) and operating by design
- Systems integration
- Ensure seamless data flow between: Core MDF & Plant Floor Edge Switches, Wireless Controller & Access Points, Edge switches & Plant Floor device data cabling
- Support testing and validation of system integrations before launch
- Cross-functional communication
- Act as a liaison between all project stakeholders -- Network Engineering/Planning/Operations, Manufacturing IT, Manufacturing and Networking Partners/Suppliers
- Lead touchpoint meetings, provide updates, and manage stakeholder expectations
- Translate technical issues into actionable items for different teams
- Issue tracking & problem resolution
- Identify risks, gaps, and delays early in the launch process
- Lead troubleshooting efforts for network or system failures
- Escalate critical issues and coordinate quick resolution
- Supplier & external coordination
- Work with Manufacturing IT and Manufacturing Stakeholders to ensure their systems and equipment integrate with plant networks
- Validate readiness for production support
- Ensure network infrastructure conforms with company standards
- Testing & validation
- Support pre-production trials and pilot builds
- Verify system performance under real production conditions
- Ensure all network-dependent processes function correctly
- Documentation & reporting
- Maintain and update network glidepaths, JIRA Epics/Stories, and launch documentation
- Provide regular status reports to project stakeholders and leadership
- Capture lessons learned for future launches
Requirements
- Network - Mobile and Wireless, Network Protocols & Standards, Network Switches, Network Management Tools, Network Engineering, Cisco Networks, LAN (Local Area Network)
- In-depth knowledge of Cisco LAN and Wireless infrastructure and related systems including Catalyst 9k switches, Wi-Fi 7, Catalyst Center, and Identity Services Engine (ISE)
- In-depth understanding of networking and IP protocols (OSPF, BGP), Cisco Software Defined Networking (SD-Access) and Cisco Industrial switches
- In-depth knowledge of Cisco routing & switching, IOS-XE Software
- Exposure to Industrial Protocols (Ethernet IP and ProfiNet)
- Knowledge of network cabling (fiber and copper) industry standards
- Knowledge and Experience in SRE (Site Reliability Engineering) principles
- Knowledge and understanding of Palo Alto Network products (Firewall, Prisma Access)
- Knowledge of Commercial and Private Cellular systems
- Demonstrated experience troubleshooting enterprise wired and wireless networks in a break/fix environment
- Experience with Wi-Fi and Cellular deployment validation and troubleshooting
Preferred
- Self-motivated, exercise good judgment and show initiative in resolving issues, knowing when to escalate.
- Ability to work under pressure at a fast-pace and meet strict deadlines
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management
- Attention to detail and ability to work independently
- A strong customer focus
Education
- Bachelor's Degree
Benefits
Everforth Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Everforth Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Everforth Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Everforth Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our ‘Welcome Packet’ as well, which an Everforth Apex team member can provide.