Network Administrator

As a Network Administrator at ManTech, you will manage critical network services, including planning, designing, and implementing networked systems for wargaming support in Quantico, VA. Your role encompasses network operations and sustainment, configuring and optimizing routers and switches, diagnosing connectivity issues, and integrating new systems with existing architecture. You'll also create technical service sustainment plans and collaborate with teams to ensure that all network systems maintain peak performance while adhering to security controls.

To qualify for the Network Administrator role at ManTech, you should have a Bachelor’s degree along with 4 to 7 years of relevant experience or 10 years of experience without a degree. You must possess a current DoD 8570 IAT Level II Certification (e.g., Security+ CE). A working knowledge of networking standards, principles, hardware, and experience in network systems design and management are also essential. Familiarity with both Windows and Linux environments is a plus.

Yes, the Network Administrator position at ManTech requires a current Secret Clearance, and the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI Clearance. This is crucial since you will be working with sensitive government information and supporting national defense initiatives.

As a Network Administrator at ManTech, you will be working with various network hardware, such as routers, switches, and firewalls, along with operating systems like Windows and Linux. You will also utilize network security appliances, video teleconferencing setups, and various management tools related to Active Directory, SCCM, and more. Familiarity with DoD STIGs and network optimization protocols will enhance your effectiveness in this role.

The work environment for a Network Administrator at ManTech in Quantico, VA, is collaborative and dynamic. You'll be part of a talented team committed to excellence in network operations. Teamwork, effective communication, and a passion for technology are key, as you will be challenged to innovate while maintaining high standards for performance and security.

When troubleshooting network connectivity issues, I start by gathering information about the problem, such as when it occurred and anyone affected. I then systematically check physical connections, followed by verifying device configurations and routing tables. Utilizing network monitoring tools, I analyze traffic flows to identify hotspots or issues that could be interrupting services. Documenting every step helps ensure a clear resolution pathway and improves future troubleshooting efforts.

Network security is critical in protecting sensitive information and maintaining operational integrity. I implement security controls by first assessing vulnerabilities using DoD STIGs. This entails patching systems promptly and implementing strict access control measures. Regularly conducting audits and monitoring traffic for unusual activity ensures compliance with security policies and enhances overall network resilience against potential threats.

For network monitoring and management, I use tools such as Wireshark for packet analysis, SolarWinds for performance monitoring, and Nagios for alerting on system outages. Additionally, I leverage network management software for patch management and compliance tracking to ensure all devices are updated and securely configured.

I have implemented network automation using tools like Ansible, which streamline configuration and deployment tasks. The benefits include reduced manual errors, improved efficiency in network operations, and quicker responses to changing network conditions. Automation also allows for consistency across configurations, which helps in maintaining compliance and security standards.

I stay updated with the latest networking technologies and trends by subscribing to industry publications, attending webinars, and participating in professional network groups. Additionally, I engage in continuous education through certifications and courses that keep my skills relevant to emerging technologies.

To manage multiple networking tasks effectively, I prioritize based on urgency and impact. Utilizing project management tools helps me track progress and deadlines, while regular communication with team members ensures everyone is aligned. Time-blocking techniques also allow me to dedicate focused periods for specific tasks.

In a network outage situation, I address the issue promptly by first notifying stakeholders and assessing the extent of the outage. I follow pre-defined incident response protocols, quickly identifying affected systems and implementing a rollback plan if needed. Post-resolution, I conduct a detailed analysis to understand the cause and implement appropriate measures to prevent future occurrences.

I have extensive experience in both local area and wide area networks, designing and managing them for optimum performance. In local area networks, I focus on segmenting traffic to enhance speed and security. For wide area networks, I have worked on optimizing bandwidth utilization and reliability, ensuring effective interconnectivity between distributed locations.

Documentation plays a vital role in network management as it provides a reference for configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting steps. It facilitates knowledge transfer within the team and ensures consistency in operations, which is critical during audits and incidents.

One challenging project involved migrating an outdated network infrastructure to a modernized solution while ensuring zero downtime. I coordinated with various stakeholders, meticulously planned the migration sequence, and conducted risk assessments. Through rigorous testing and phased implementation, we successfully transitioned without service interruptions, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and communication.