IT/Network Specialist B

The IT / Network Specialist is responsible for diagnosing computer problems, monitoring computer processing systems, installing software and performing tests on computer equipment and programs throughout the facility from welfare to production areas. This position is responsible for analyzing, testing, troubleshooting, and evaluating network systems throughout the facility from welfare to production and office areas. Work closely with proper parties on local network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet systems, server, and storage hardware. Perform network / system maintenance to ensure systems and network operate correctly with minimal interruption.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES : This list is not intended to be all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned.

• Repair minor computer issues and order computer parts
• Document, test and modify office software systems including Microsoft Server and workstation OS platforms, Linux platforms, Microsoft Exchange, MS Active Directory, M365 and M365 Admin Centers, Microsoft SQL, VMWare, Antivirus, Azure, Solar Winds, Citrix, JDE Accounting Systems, Power platforms.
• Assist Operations IT when needed with systems such as Carlisle, Ignition, Rockwell and Wonderware.
• Assist Power platforms team as needed
• Provides technical guidance to help support production throughput, efficiency, cost reduction and safety improvements
• Troubleshoots hardware and software issues
• Experience in Cyber Security and mitigation of threats to any assets.
• Assist with Intrusion inspection and prevention of company networks
• Support, document, test and modify network equipment, printers, radios, laptops, VolP phone system etc. to meet the needs of each department and area in the facility.
• Maintain and improve IT systems throughout welfare, production and office areas.
• Document, test and modify configurations of the local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), routers, switches and controllers or related networking equipment.
• Document, test, and modify configurations of Server and SAN, NAS equipment hardware.
• Solves or coordinates the solution of computer related problems and repairs for PC users.
• Resolves connectivity issues for factory users and systems.
• Analyze local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) performance data to ensure sufficient availability or speed, to identify network problems or for disaster recovery purposes.
• Identify the causes of networking problem, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
• Assists with the development scheduling resolution / analysis skills and software knowledge.
• Work cross-functionally with IT Technicians, Automation Specialists, Database Administrators, LINUX / Windows system administrators and other teams to diagnose complex problems and drive resolution.
• Testing and applying application patches and perform upgrades of applications as needed using Ninja One management system.
• Defines and recommends objectives in area of responsibility.
• Diagnose system issues and develop ways to pre-empt downtime by developing strategies to improve overall reliability and safety of plant, personnel, and production processes.
• Arrange procurement of software, hardware, or components for use in special projects or the repair or installation of equipment.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS : To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Must have the ability to multitask and work across multiple shifts and weekends. Must be able to work with little supervision. The requirements listed below are representative of the work environment, knowledge, skill and / or ability required or preferred. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and / or EXPERIENCE : BA / BS Degree in Computer Science related field or five (5) years of experience required; must have some experience with configuring wiring, cabling, servers, computers and equipment; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and / or experience.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS : Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and / or governmental regulations. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from management and employees using plant systems.

LANGUAGE SKILLS : Ability to read and interpret documents in the English language such as safety files, standard operating procedures, operating and maintenance instructions. Must be able to effectively communicate with USDA, production and management personnel. Bilingual skills a plus.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS : Ability to apply mathematical applications to practical situations. Demonstrated ability to understand basic statistics for process control.

REASONING ABILITY : Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical, diagram, written and / or verbal form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES : Ability to use computers and all standard programs used by the industry and the ability to learn and effectively use any and all other computer programs that are or will be made available.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS : While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to move about the facility. The employee is required to sit; use hands and fingers to handle or feel / hold objects; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; speak; hear taste and smell. The employee must regularly lift and / or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and / or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and / or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT : While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to cold / hot and / or humid conditions. During construction phase, will be exposed to all outdoor elements and dust and odors typically associated with building construction. Will frequently work near moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, cold / hot temperature and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. The work environment includes climate extremes found in all areas of plant operations.

NORMAL WORK SCHEDULE : The hours and days of work are established as needed by operations and at the discretion of management and may be changed (increased or decreased) by management as required. May be required to work some weekends and be part of an on-call rotation. HOURS 2 : 00PM - 10 : 30PM. Will need to be able to work one Saturday a month.