Network Administrator

Network Administrator JobID: 5742 Position Type: Technology and Creative Development/Network AdministratorDate Posted: 9/25/2026Location: Education Service Center Region 13 - 200District: Education Service Center Region 13 Additional Information: Show/HideReports To: IT Infrastructure and Services CoordinatorSalary: This is a full-time, twelve (12) month position at 232 days, with a salary in the range of $82,572.00 to $100,067.00.Job Summary/Primary Purpose: Work independently with minimal supervision to support wide area networks (WAN), local area networks (LAN), and cybersecurity services for ESC Region 13 and constituent school systems. This position combines traditional network administration responsibilities with cybersecurity functions, including monitoring, incident response, system hardening, and providing cybersecurity guidance and training to school system personnel.Required Qualifications (years of experience, education, certifications): Any of the following will be considered:Bachelor's degree in computer science or related fieldAssociate degree in a technical field and 3 years of experience in networking and cybersecurityTechnical school completion and 3 years of experience in networking and cybersecuritySignificant experience in networking and cybersecurity may be considered in place of formal education In addition:Candidates without current CompTIA certification(s) must obtain Security+ or equivalent within a reasonable time following employment (typically within six months).Ongoing professional development is expected, including pursuit of advanced or additional certifications relevant to network administration, cybersecurity, and/or cloud infrastructure.Preferred Qualifications (years of experience, education, certifications): Relevant industry certifications such as CompTIA (Security+, Network+), CISSP (a plus), CEH (preferred), or related credentialsExperience with pfSense, Palo Alto Networks (firewall policy, VPN, and security profile management), Microsoft 365 Security Center, and Google Workspace Admin/Security ToolsExperience with Aruba/HP Greenlake, Cisco Meraki, and Ubiquiti Unifi platformsFamiliarity with the Texas Cybersecurity Framework (preferred but not required) ; an in- depth understanding of cybersecurity standards such as NIST or ISO 27001 is strongly preferredKnowledge/ Skills: Solid understanding of TCP/IP networking, Vl.ANs, routing, switching, and VPN technologiesProficiency in firewall and content filter configuration and management (pfSense, Palo Alto preferred)Experience with l.AN/WAN design, monitoring, and troubleshooting for multi- site environmentsFamiliarity with intrusion detection and prevention systems, DDoS mitigation, and incident responseExperience supporting server administration functions for constituent school systems, including virtualization platforms such as VMware and Hyper- V, patching, imaging, and system lifecycle management.Knowledge of M365 and Google Workspace security and identity management controlsAbility to conduct cybersecurity training sessions and technical workshops for school system IT staffStrong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skillsAbility to work independently and collaboratively within a regional team environmentMajor Responsibilities:Serve as a representative of ESC Region 13, displaying courtesy, tact, consideration, and discretion in all interactions with other members of the educational community and with the publicNetwork Administration ResponsibilitiesProvide network support and troubleshooting to internal and external clients by phone and on- site serviceMonitor WAN and l.AN network status for ESC Region 1 3 and constituent school systems, including benchmark performance for connectivity to multiple upstream providersManage network routers, firewalls, switches, and content filtersConfigure and monitor wireless networks for on-site and remote clientsManage equipment configurations, installations, and upgrades for WAN and l.AN environmentsConduct server installations, patch management, and virtual infrastructure supportProvide server administration and virtualization support for constituent school systems, including deployment, maintenance, and optimization of VMware, Hyper- V, and similar platformsParticipate in network planning, design, and capacity management for ESC Region 13 and supported school systemsCreate and maintain network and configuration documentation for team useCybersecurity and Training ResponsibilitiesAdminister and monitor firewalls (Palo Alto, pfSense) and VP N connections for security and availabilityImplement and maintain intrusion detection/prevention systems and perform incident response activitiesConduct cybersecurity risk assessments and vulnerability scans to identify and remediate security gapsManage security settings, alerts, and compliance baselines in Microsoft 365 Security Center and Google Workspace Admin ConsoleSupport the development and alignment of cybersecurity controls with the Texas Cybersecurity Framework (TCF) and recognized standards such as NIST CSF and ISO 27001Develop and deliver training sessions and workshops for constituent school systems on cybersecurity best practices, data protection, and incident response readinessCollaborate with technology directors and administrators across school systems to strengthen regional cybersecurity awareness and response capabilitiesResearch emerging threats and evolving security technologies, providing proactive recommendations to improve resilience across educational environmentsPerform other duties as assignedSupervisory Responsibilities: NoneBudget Responsibilities: NoneWorking Conditions: Communicate effectively, both written and orallyFollow policies and proceduresAble to lift 50 lbs. and perform equipment installation tasksMaintain emotional control under stress and manage multiple prioritiesInterpret and maintain technical data and documentationWork independently and as a team memberWork extended hours as needed, including evenings or weekends for critical maintenance or school system supportDemonstrate strong troubleshooting and analytical skillsEquipment Used: PhoneComputerNetwork equipmentSecurity appliancesVirtualization platforms