802.1, 802.11, ARP (Address Resolution Protocol), Access Control, Accounts Payable, Analysis Skills, Authentication, BGP, CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate, Career Counseling, Change Management, Cisco Network Systems, Communication Skills, CompTIA Network+, Compensation and Benefits, Configuration Management, Customer Support/Service, DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), DNS (Domain Name System), Document Change Management, Documentation, Documentation Standards, EIGRP (Enhanced IGRP), Emerging Technology, Firewalls, Genetics, HSRP (Hot Standby Router Protocol), HTTP (HyperText Transport Protocol), Hardware Installation, IP (Internet Protocol) Routing, IP Addressing, IPv4, Identify Issues, Information Technology & Information Systems, Internet Search, Layer 2 Protocols, Leading Edge Technology, Legal, Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP), MPLS (Multi-Protocol Label Switching), Maintain Compliance, Media Access Control (MAC), Mentoring, NAT (Network Address Translation), Network Access Control (NAC), Network Administration/Management, Network Architecture/Engineering, Network Configuration Management, Network Monitoring, Network Performance/Analysis, Network Routing, Network Support, Network Switching, Network System Hardware, Open Shortest Path First Protocol (OSPF), Per VLAN Spanning Tree (PVST), Performance Analysis, Problem Solving Skills, Radio Frequency, Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), Routing Protocols, Spanning Tree Protocols, Subnetting, Team Player, VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network), VLAN Tagging, VRRP (Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol), Wi-Fi, Wide Area Network (WAN), Wireless Communications, Wireless LAN, Wireshark (Ethereal)
Job#: 3035713
Job Description:
Network Engineer II (Intermediate / Implementation Level)
Shape the future of enterprise networking!
We're looking for a skilled Network Engineer II to join our team and take ownership of designing, implementing, and optimizing advanced network solutions. If you thrive on solving complex challenges, love working with cutting-edge technologies, and want to make an impact in a dynamic environment, this role is for you.
About the Role
As a Network Engineer II, you'll play a critical role in building and maintaining secure, high-performance networks. You'll work across Layer 2-7 technologies, integrating routing, firewalls, Wi-Fi, and Network Access Control (NAC) to deliver seamless connectivity and security. This position is ideal for someone with strong technical depth and a passion for continuous learning.
Core Focus Areas
- Advanced Networking: L2-L7 design and troubleshooting, routing protocols, and firewall integration.
- Wireless Expertise: Wi-Fi architecture, WLC configuration, and RF optimization.
- Security & Access Control: Implement NAC solutions like Cisco ISE or Aruba ClearPass.
- Emerging Technologies: Exposure to VRFs, BGP, MPLS, SD-WAN, and SD-Access.
What You'll Do
- Design and implement advanced VLANs, trunking, and EtherChannel/LACP configurations.
- Optimize STP with portfast, BPDU guard, and root guard.
- Configure and troubleshoot OSPF and EIGRP, inter-VLAN routing, and gateway redundancy (HSRP, VRRP, GLBP).
- Work with firewalls (stateful inspection, NAT, ACLs) and troubleshoot application-layer protocols (DNS, DHCP, HTTP/S).
- Manage Wireless LAN Controllers, RF design, authentication (WPA2/3, 802.1X), and site surveys.
- Deploy NAC solutions for device profiling, posture assessment, and role-based access.
- Gain hands-on experience with BGP, MPLS, VRFs, and SD-WAN fundamentals.
- Use monitoring tools for performance analysis and log review.
- Document changes, maintain compliance, and mentor junior engineers.
What We're Looking For
- Strong understanding of Layer 2-7 networking concepts.
- Hands-on experience with routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP) and firewall technologies.
- Intermediate knowledge of Wi-Fi architecture and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with NAC platforms (Cisco ISE, Aruba ClearPass).
- Exposure to advanced topics like VRFs, BGP, MPLS, and SD-WAN.
- Excellent problem-solving, documentation, and collaboration skills.
Why Join Us?
- Work with enterprise-grade technologies and gain exposure to next-gen networking.
- Be part of a collaborative team that values innovation and continuous learning.
- Opportunities for career growth and certifications.
- Competitive compensation and benefits package.
EEO Employer
Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at [email protected] or 844-463-6178.Network Engineer I (Entry-Level)
Overview
We are seeking a Network Engineer I to support and maintain enterprise network infrastructure. This role is ideal for candidates with a strong foundation in Layer 2 networking, exposure to Layer 3 concepts, and an interest in wireless technologies.
You'll play a key role in network deployment, troubleshooting, and day-to-day operations, while continuing to grow your technical skillset in a collaborative environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Support installation, configuration, and maintenance of network infrastructure (switches, cabling, and related hardware)
- Troubleshoot network connectivity issues across wired and wireless environments
- Assist with VLAN configuration, port management, and access control
- Support basic routing and IP addressing tasks
- Monitor network performance using enterprise tools
- Follow documentation standards and change management procedures
- Collaborate with senior engineers on projects and escalations
Required Technical Skills
Layer 2 Networking (Core Focus)
- VLAN configuration, tagging, and trunking
- Spanning Tree Protocol (STP - PVST+, RSTP) fundamentals
- Port security and access control
- 802.1X fundamentals and AAA concepts
- MAC address tables and ARP understanding
Layer 3 Networking (Foundational)
- IPv4 addressing and subnetting (public vs. private ranges)
- Default gateways and static routing
- Introductory knowledge of routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP preferred)
Wireless (Introductory)
- Basic understanding of SSIDs, channels, and RF concepts
- Familiarity with 802.11 standards (a/b/g/n/ac/ax)
- Exposure to access point (AP) setup and wireless controllers
- Basic troubleshooting (signal strength, interference)
Infrastructure & Best Practices
- Network hardware installation (racking, stacking, cabling)
- Power and redundancy concepts (PoE, UPS)
- Structured cabling and labeling standards
- Network documentation and diagram upkeep
Tools & Technologies
- Exposure to network monitoring tools (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG)
- Basic packet analysis using Wireshark
- Familiarity with ticketing systems and incident workflows
Qualifications
- 0-3 years of networking or IT infrastructure experience
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in IT, Networking, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Relevant certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+, CCNA) are a plus
Soft Skills
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Ability to follow processes and work within change management frameworks
- Eagerness to learn and grow within a technical environment
Everforth Apex is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Everforth Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRateds Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Everforth Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click here for more details.
Everforth Apex Benefits Overview: Everforth Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Everforth Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Everforth Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Everforth Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Everforth Apex team member can provide.
Employee Type:
Contract
Location:
Chesapeake, VA, US
Job Type:
Date Posted:
May 26, 2026
Pay Range:
$35 - $40 per hour
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