Network Administrator

ServicePoint IT is a leader in providing cutting-edge technology and engineering solutions across industries. Our team is committed to delivering excellence and managing complex projects efficiently.

Scope of Work: ServicePoint has a customer seeking a Network Administrator for a 6 month temp to hire opportunity located in Fort Collins CO. This is 8AM-5PM Monday-Friday 100% onsite.

Pay Rate: $45.00/hr

Conversion Salary: $90k-$100k

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the oversight of the Technology Director, this position will manage and maintain the Operational Technology (OT) network infrastructure. The OT network supports critical systems including SCADA, AMI, and VHF, including fiber, microwave communications, satellite, DSL, and cellular networks. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with network administration, particularly in managing diverse communication technologies and ensuring robust security measures. This position will ensure the system remains compliant with Association regulatory and industry standards.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Network Design and Implementation: Collaborate and provide recommendations for the planning, design, and implementation of WAN and LAN network architecture to support OT systems, ensuring scalability, reliability, and security.
• Hardware Management: Order, install, configure, and maintain internal and external network devices from various vendors. Collaborate and coordinate installation of field devices with Engineering and Operations, including deploying configurations, testing and validation.
• Firewall Configuration: Set up and manage firewalls and site-to-site VPN tunnels to secure network traffic and protect against unauthorized access.
• Switching and Routing: Design, configure, and maintain OT network infrastructure in accordance with Association policies, regulatory standards, and industry best practices.
• SCADA and AMI Support: Provide technical support for SCADA and AMI systems, ensuring seamless communication and data exchange.
• Communication Technology Management: Provide recommendations and technical solutions for the operation of VHF, fiber, microwave, satellite, DSL, and cellular networks, ensuring reliable connectivity across all platforms.
• Network Security: Implement and maintain robust security measures to protect OT systems from cyber threats.
• Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance and troubleshoot issues to ensure network stability and performance. Troubleshoot SCADA & AMI hardware, software, HMI, computers/workstations, programming, scripting, configuration, or other communication issues and engage appropriate support to resolve problems in a timely manner.
• Network Analysis: Utilize analysis software tools, SNMP, scripting, and alerting tools to make recommendations regarding system performance, operational improvements, and upgrades
• Documentation and Training: Develop and maintain technical documentation and provide training to internal and external users on a regular basis.
• Compliance and Standards: Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations related to OT network security and operations.
• All members of the Technology Team may be required to participate in an on-call rotation on an as needed basis.

STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE

These duties reflect the cooperative’s mission and purpose, and they are required of all employees:

• Work according to the safety rules and company policies as adopted by PVREA and is responsible for own safety and reports all accidents in accordance with Association policies.
• Adhere to the cybersecurity policies, procedures, and practices as adopted by PVREA and is responsible for participating in cybersecurity training and awareness exercises.
• Exhibits integrity and demonstrates ethical behavior in everyday business conduct.
• Support the strategic goals of the organization in accordance with the Association’s Strategic Plan.
• Interact with all departments of the Association as well as with members, the general public, other utility personnel, governmental agencies, and equipment vendors in a kind, courteous and professional manner.
• Collaborate effectively and successfully with fellow employees to achieve department and company-wide goals and build a team-focused environment.
• Assist in the emergency restoration of facilities during storms or outages.
• Regular and predictable attendance are essential functions of the position.
• Performs other duties within capabilities as directed by supervisors.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education and/or formal training:

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology or a related field, or any equivalent combination of experience, education and training which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties and responsibilities as described is required. Industry certifications such as Cisco (CCNA, CCNP, or CISSP), Ciena (CRS-A, P), or equivalent from related vendors are highly desired

Experience:

• This position requires a minimum of seven years (7) of experience in WAN network administration with a strong background in managing complex network infrastructures.
• Experience should include: Hands-on involvement with diverse communication technologies such as SCADA, AMI, VHF, fiber, microwave, Satellite, DSL, and cellular networks.
• Experience configuring and maintaining firewalls, switches, and routers from leading vendors like Cisco, Palo Alto, and Ciena is essential
• Experience in managing OT/ICS systems and ensuring compliance with industry standards such as the Purdue Model is highly desirable.
• Experience in the utility industry, electrical industry, or related field is desirable.

Knowledge, skill and abilities needed:

• Strong technical skills in managing and troubleshooting network issues are essential.
• The ability to configure and manage network devices from vendors such as Cisco, Ciena, Red Lion, and Sierra are required.
• Proficiency in network security principles and practices, including threat analysis and mitigation, is critical.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills are necessary for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams and for providing technical support.
• The ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of device and infrastructure installation best practices with basic hand tools.
• Knowledge of the electric utility industry, including safety practices, is highly desirable.

Driving:

• Must possess a valid Colorado Driver’s License and operate a company non-DOT vehicle in all weather conditions, on both paved and unpaved roads.

Mental Demands:

• This employee must be able to work well with the public, Association members, and other Association employees.
• They need to be able to remember what was done and schedule and prioritize future work, stay alert even when the work is repetitious, and work well with detail.
• The employee must be able to learn new procedures and equipment and demonstrate flexibility in all areas. The job may occasionally require ingenuity, problem solving, analytic ability, auditory discrimination, writing ability and imagination.
• This job can be stressful at times; however, composure must be always maintained with members and co-workers.

Physical Demands:

• The employee must be capable of performing the Essential Job Functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Spends approximately 50% of the day sitting at a desk or test bench and the remainder walking, standing, bending, and stooping (percentages will vary depending upon the work to be accomplished).
• Required to drive a vehicle regularly, both two- and four-wheel drive, which requires awareness, spatial relationships, alertness, and physical dexterity.
• Will install, test, and maintain electronic equipment in the office and in the field, which requires balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, and reading of equipment. These duties may also expose the Administrator to energized low-voltage (less than 600v) equipment and to a work environment that includes high-voltage substations.
• May be required to carry equipment and materials that can weigh as much as 75 pounds.
• Must have the ability to climb ladders and work at heights up to 40 feet.

Working Conditions

• The Network Administrator spends about 60% of their time indoors or in a vehicle. The remainder of the time is spent outdoors in all kinds of weather.
• During setup of a new system the Administrator may spend approximately 90% of their time out of the office installing the required equipment.
• Work locations include electrical substations as well as very remote and/or undeveloped sites that require additional safety considerations.
• The employee must be able to tolerate direct sun, cold winds, and other types of inclement weather.
• The noise level is estimated to be 50-90 decibels

ServicePoint is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

ServicePoint is committed to providing accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, please communicate the specific accommodations needed as soon as possible so they can be provided for you.