Network Engineer I

The Network Engineer is responsible for providing high-quality, reliable, flexible, and appropriate infrastructure networking solutions and support for Rice University. These systems are used campus-wide by faculty, students, and staff in support of Rice University’s academic goals. The Network Engineer works closely with network architects, senior network engineers, information technology directors, assistant directors, and managers to properly design and support these systems. The Network Engineer is responsible for the technical aspects of the design, management, and support of systems that enable the successful operation of Rice’s campus networks, as well as the support and operation of Rice’s network infrastructure. This position must act responsibly and follow TS&S practices when performing tasks on production systems.

The ideal candidate is an accomplished communicator with the ability to perform daily systems management functions on production network systems and maintain efficient, reliable, and highly valuable network platforms while providing customer service to both proficient and inexperienced clients.

Special Instructions to Applicants: All interested applicants should attach a resume and cover letter in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in a PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

Workplace Requirements

This position is exclusively on-site, requiring all duties to be performed in person on the Rice University campus. This role involves active physical labor associated with network infrastructure installation and maintenance. Candidates must be able to regularly lift and carry network equipment up to 50 pounds, work in tight or hard-to-reach spaces (such as telecommunications closets, equipment racks, and overhead/under-desk areas), and perform physical movements such as bending, kneeling, reaching, and climbing ladders to run cabling and deploy network devices. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position, and the proposed salary is $75,000 to $81,204 commensurate with experience and qualifications. Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree• In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis

• 1+ years of hands-on experience in network administration, network support, and demonstrated experience in troubleshooting network connectivity issues• In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis

Skills:

• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical users across campus.
• Solid knowledge of and experience with fundamental network protocols and technologies, including TCP/IP, DNS/DHCP, VLANs, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), basic routing (OSPF/BGP), 802.11 wireless standards, and IP subnetting.
• Effective troubleshooting and analytical skills for diagnosing network performance and connectivity issues.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor, guide, and train student technicians and junior staff, fostering skill development and quality work habits.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks, handle competing demands, and meet deadlines effectively.

Preferences

• 2 years of experience providing customer service and network services to both technically proficient and inexperienced clients, and working with individuals and teams involved in technical support
• Experience with network software and hardware systems, managing and supporting complex infrastructure projects, and Infoblox (DNS, DHCP, and IPAM systems)
• Functional experience in departmental management, systems implementation, systems support, project management, and customer relations (preferably in a higher education or research environment)
• Experience with Unix, Windows, and macOS operating systems
• Experience with wireless networking technologies (hardware and software)
• Understanding of Cisco and Arista network hardware/software and data cabling installation practices

Essential Functions

• Implements, configures, and assists in maintaining campus network hardware and software infrastructure.
• Assists in the design, documentation, and deployment of new or upgraded network connections and wireless access points.
• Monitors network utilization and performance, escalating or initiating corrective action when service levels degrade.
• Responds to network service requests and support tickets; diagnoses connectivity issues and executes timely repairs.
• Prepares and maintains accurate network documentation, diagrams, and operational procedures.
• Performs routine system maintenance, patches, and security updates on network devices in accordance with IT security policies and procedures.
• Participates in scheduled maintenance windows and emergency response as required.
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Rice University Office of Technology Solutions & Services (TS&S)

TS&S provides excellent constituent service, acting as a strategic partner to advance Rice University’s priorities and mission of “pathbreaking research, unsurpassed teaching, and contribution to the betterment of our world.” We fuel innovation across the university by building a culture of trust, using an effective operating model, driving seamless experiences, and providing core IT capabilities.

TS&S is service-oriented and team-enabling. We seek applicants who will contribute to our mission.

Trust Building and Stakeholder Engagement - Foster trust across campus by being transparent, reliable, consistent, and solution-oriented in communication and execution. Ensure clear, consistent, and timely communication with all constituents, maintaining a service-oriented mindset and addressing challenges with integrity.

Collaboration and Cross-Functional Commitment - Work effectively with colleagues across teams, departments, and roles to support shared goals and a positive work environment. Communicate clearly and professionally with team members throughout TS&S and across campus to ensure smooth coordination of tasks and projects. Build and maintain positive relationships with others by being approachable, reliable, and responsive. Proactively share relevant information and follow up to ensure alignment and efficiency in team efforts.

Agility and Responsiveness - Adapt quickly to evolving needs, technologies, and priorities, ensuring efficiency and relevance. Identify potential challenges in advance and take proactive steps to minimize disruption to end users. Approach unexpected changes with a problem-solving mindset, balancing speed with thoughtful engagement. Prioritize user experience by delivering seamless, timely, and effective support and solutions. Maintain a culture of continuous learning and ask questions from a place of curiosity and possibility to enhance agility and service outcomes.

Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement - Maintain a culture of continuous improvement in all IT operations to ensure efficient and effective service delivery. Regularly assess and optimize processes, systems, and technologies to enhance performance, scalability, and user satisfaction.

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please contact Rice University’s Human Resources Office via email at facstaffada@rice.edu for support.

If you have any additional questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu. Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.