Network Systems Engineer (Network and Communications Analyst I)

About the role

San Diego State University is seeking a Network Systems Engineer to support the university’s network infrastructure and modernization initiatives. The ideal candidate will assist with the implementation, maintenance, and optimization of wired and wireless network systems while contributing to large-scale infrastructure projects that support teaching, research, and campus operations.

Responsibilities

• Configure, install, maintain, and support wired and wireless network infrastructure and related systems.
• Assist with network refresh initiatives, wireless access point deployments, and infrastructure upgrades across campus.
• Coordinate migration activities and provide technical support to campus departments throughout implementation efforts.
• Contribute to the deployment of campus-wide network infrastructure projects, including wireless and network migration initiatives.
• Collaborate with campus stakeholders, vendors, and technical teams to support scalable and reliable network solutions.
• Research emerging technologies and contribute recommendations for infrastructure enhancements.
• Monitor network performance, identify issues, and support resolution efforts to maintain operational continuity.
• Work with vendors and internal teams to troubleshoot and resolve complex network-related issues.
• Support high-performance research networking and specialized connectivity needs across campus.
• Afford emergency network maintenance and operational support activities as needed.
• Support systems integration and optimization.
• Maintain technical documentation and support data-driven recommendations for network improvements.
• Collaborate with IT partners to ensure secure, stable, and efficient network operations.

Requirements

Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in a related field. Relevant education, certifications, training, and/or professional experience that demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

• Experience supporting wired and wireless network operations in a complex enterprise environment, including troubleshooting connectivity issues.
• Familiarity with enterprise wireless networking, including access point installation, configuration, and deployment best practices.
• Experience assisting with network infrastructure projects such as hardware upgrades, replacements, migrations, or refresh initiatives.
• Basic understanding of network architecture and the ability to support network configuration and deployment activities under established guidelines.
• Knowledge of enterprise network hardware, device lifecycle management, labeling standards, and operational support practices.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to coordinate effectively with technical staff, vendors, and stakeholders on network-related projects.

Qualifications

• Preferred: Experience working in a higher education, research, or large enterprise network environment, preferably within the SDSU IT environment or a similar campus setting.
• Familiarity with enterprise networking technologies and platforms such as Aruba, Infoblox, or comparable solutions.
• Experience supporting large-scale wireless deployments, network hardware refreshes, or migration projects.
• Relevant technical certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+, CCNA, or similar), or progress toward obtaining certification, and familiarity with network monitoring and analysis tools.

Skills

Strong technical skills in network administration, troubleshooting, and problem-solving are essential. Proficiency in network monitoring tools and software is also required.

Benefits

San Diego State University offers a comprehensive benefits package including generous time off, retirement plans, health coverage, and tuition fee waivers. The position is eligible for telecommuting up to 1 day per week, following a training period during which on-site presence is required.

Pay

Initial step placement is not expected to exceed Step 1 ($5,787/month). Salary step placement for internal applicants will follow the CSUEU Collective Bargaining Agreement. Future increases, including step advancements, are subject to contract negotiations.

Schedule

This is a full-time (1.0 time-base) benefits eligible position with an anticipated duration of six months and one day from the start date, with the possibility of reappointment.