Network Engineer I (3 openings)

Job Title: Network Engineer – Hardware & Firmware Evaluation

Role Type: Full-Time / Contract

Position Overview

We are seeking an entry-level Network Engineer I to join an enterprise hardware testing and validation team. In this role, you will work directly in a physical lab environment to test, validate, and certify networking hardware and vendor firmware updates prior to enterprise production deployment.

You will partner closely with senior network engineers who will provide hands-on training on testing procedures, device evaluation standards, and certification workflows. This is a focused hardware and routing validation role—no scripting/automation or wireless engineering required.

Key Responsibilities

• Physical Lab & Device Testing: Set up, configure, and evaluate enterprise routers, switches, and edge devices in a hands-on lab environment.

• Firmware Certification & Lifecycle: Test and certify vendor firmware releases, patches, and device lifecycle updates across multi-vendor equipment to ensure stability and compatibility.

• Test Execution & Reporting: Execute test plans alongside senior engineers to evaluate device performance, throughput, and failover behavior under simulated production traffic.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with operations, engineering, and product support teams to validate new hardware models before rollout and assist with end-of-life (EOL) assessments.

• Documentation: Record test results, firmware defects, configuration baselines, and certification steps clearly and systematically.

Qualifications & Requirements

Must-Haves:

• Foundational Networking Knowledge: Clear understanding of core networking models, routing and switching concepts (OSI layers, TCP/IP, subnetting, VLANs, routing fundamentals).

• Vendor Hands-On Experience: Hands-on lab, academic, or professional familiarity with Nokia and Juniper hardware (Note: initial technical assessment evaluates core Nokia routing/switching fundamentals).

• Physical Lab Exposure: Comfortable racking, cabling, accessing, and console-configuring physical networking gear.

• Diagnostic & Communication Skills: Ability to clearly explain basic networking concepts, error states, and troubleshooting logic.

Nice-to-Haves / Pluses:

• Familiarity with multi-vendor platforms (Cisco, Meraki, Fortinet, or edge appliances).

• Active pursuit or completion of entry-level networking certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+, CCNA, JNCIA-Junos, or Nokia NRS I).

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Networks, or equivalent hands-on lab training.