Network Systems Engineer (Network and Communications Analyst I)

About the role

The Network Systems Engineer supports the university’s network infrastructure and modernization initiatives, working closely with technical teams and campus partners to ensure reliable, secure, and high-performing network services.

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.
• Support network operations by troubleshooting connectivity issues and ensuring system reliability and performance.
• Cook up 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.
• Aid in network design, configuration, documentation, and technical implementation activities.
• 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.
• Assist with emergency network maintenance and operational support activities as needed.
• Support integration and maintenance of network management and monitoring platforms, including wireless management and infrastructure systems.
• Conduct site surveys, analyze network performance data, and assist with infrastructure optimization efforts.
• Maintain technical documentation and support data-driven recommendations for network improvements.
• Collaborate with IT partners to ensure secure, stable, and efficient network operations.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting wired and wireless network operations in a complex enterprise environment, including troubleshooting connectivity issues.
• Working knowledge of enterprise wireless networking, including access point installation, configuration, and deployment best practices.
• Familiarity with large-scale wireless environments, including access point placement, cabling pathways, and coverage considerations across multiple facilities.
• 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.
• Ability to follow documented procedures, maintain accurate technical documentation, and support network services in accordance with organizational standards.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to coordinate effectively with technical staff, vendors, and stakeholders on network-related projects.

Skills

• 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.

Benefits

San Diego State University offers a comprehensive benefits package including generous time off, retirement benefits, health coverage, education support, and optional offerings such as flex cash, life and disability insurance, and legal and pet plans. 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. CSU Classification Salary Range: $5,787-$8,430 per month (Step 1-Step 20).

Schedule

Standard SDSU work hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs.