Associate Network Engineer - job 19 of 21

The Associate Network Engineer at our Foster City location is responsible for designing, planning, and implementing WAN, LAN, and wireless networks. They provide third-level technical support for network issues, collaborate with project and account managers, and generate network design documentation. Furthermore, they analyze network activity, manage vendor relationships, and work closely with the Information Security team to maintain compliance.

To be considered for the Associate Network Engineer role, candidates typically need a relevant degree in Computer Science or a related field, along with experience in network design and implementation. Proficiency in networking hardware and software, as well as strong analytical skills, are essential. Familiarity with security protocols and vendor management is also highly advantageous.

In the Associate Network Engineer position, the hybrid work model allows flexibility, with employees expected to work from the office three days a week. This balance enables the team to collaborate effectively while also providing the chance for focused work from home. Leadership will guide specific in-office days based on business needs to ensure team connectivity without sacrificing productivity.

The Associate Network Engineer will provide training and guidance tailored to the needs of the network support teams. This includes best practices for troubleshooting network issues, understanding network design, and implementing security protocols. The goal is to enhance the competency of support teams, ensuring they can operate effectively and independently.

An Associate Network Engineer has fantastic career growth potential within our company. As you gain experience and showcase your skills, you could advance to positions such as Senior Network Engineer or Network Architect. There are also opportunities to specialize in Information Security or Network Management, ensuring a fulfilling career path in the IT industry.

When answering this question, provide specific examples of networks you've designed in previous roles or projects. Highlight the types of networks (WAN, LAN, wireless) and any specific technologies or protocols you employed. Focus on challenges you faced and how you overcame them to showcase your problem-solving abilities.

It's important to outline your systematic approach to troubleshooting, such as gathering data, using diagnostic tools, and analyzing trends. Discuss instances where your troubleshooting led to meaningful improvements or resolutions, emphasizing your analytical skills and teamwork with IS or support teams.

In your response, mention specific security protocols you're familiar with, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, or VPNs. Illustrate how you’ve worked alongside security teams to identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance, showing your understanding of security as a crucial part of networking.

Discuss the resources you use, like industry journals, webinars, or professional associations. Mention any certifications you pursue, platforms you follow for insight, and conferences you attend. This shows your commitment to professional development and eagerness to apply new knowledge.

Share a specific example highlighting your vendor management skills. Discuss the significance of that relationship on project success and how your communication, negotiation, or problem-solving skills contributed to a positive outcome, emphasizing your interpersonal effectiveness.

Choose a project that highlights your role as part of a collaborative team. Explain your contributions, how you supported others, and the overall impact of the project. This demonstrates teamwork and your ability to work effectively with various stakeholders.

Mention specific tools or software you have experience with, such as Wireshark or SolarWinds. Explain why you prefer these tools, focusing on their effectiveness in providing insights and how they help you monitor performance and troubleshoot issues.

Articulate your approach to assessing network performance, including metrics you track, such as latency, bandwidth usage, and error rates. Mention tools you use for measurement and analysis and emphasize how evaluation ensures the network meets business needs.

Outline the methods you apply to ensure compliance with security policies, such as regular audits, testing vulnerability against standards, and staying informed about regulatory requirements. Providing an example will emphasize your proactive approach to compliance and security.

Explain your organizational skills and priority-setting methods. Discuss tools you use, like task management software, and how you communicate with project managers to ensure deadlines are met while maintaining flexibility for urgent issues that may arise.