Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer)

City of Long Beach; California (MO); On-site; USD 64,747 - 88,166; Full time

Job summary

City of Long Beach seeks a Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer) to design, deploy, and maintain the City’s network infrastructure. You will create configuration templates, establish firmware standards, and manage core devices such as firewalls, routers, and switches to ensure reliable city-wide connectivity.

Desirable candidates will have Cisco routing and switching expertise, DNA/Catalyst experience, and knowledge of Zero Trust concepts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio/TV Communications, or related field (proof required).
• One year of paid full-time experience in telecommunications or wireless equivalent to Systems Technician (Option A).
• Three years of related experience with an associate degree (Option B).
• One year of related experience with a certificate program (Option C).

Responsibilities

• Maintain, install, repair, plan and design communication systems and equipment.
• Develop, review, and implement configuration templates and firmware standards.
• Manage core network infrastructure including firewalls, routers, switches, and servers.
• Assess risks and vulnerabilities and recommend improvements to meet city network needs.

Skills

Cisco Networking

Routing & Switching

Network Security

Wireless Tech

DNA/Catalyst

Zero Trust

Education

Bachelor's degree

Associate degree

Certificate program

Tools

GROL license

Network documentation

Job description

Applications are available online beginning Friday, July 24, 2026, through 4:30 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026.

Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer)

There is currently one (1) Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer) opening in the Technology & Innovation (TID) Department. The Communication Specialist V (Network Engineer) operates under general supervision and will require specialized expertise in Cisco network design and architecture, routing and switching, routing protocols, network security, wireless technologies, DNA, and Zero Trust. This role will be responsible for creating configuration templates for network hardware; creating network firmware standards and updating schedules; maintaining core network infrastructure, including firewalls, routers, switches, and other related hardware; assessing for risks and vulnerabilities across network hardware & software, and making recommendations to improve network infrastructure and ensure solutions meet the needs of the city network.

Please refer to the Desirable Qualifications listed below for more information.

Salary Information

• Grade I - $ 30.579 - $41.579 Hourly
• Grade II - $ 33.845 - $45.992 Hourly
• Grade III - $37.419 - $50.862 Hourly
• Grade IV - $42.431 – 57.788 Hourly
• Grade V - $ 46.922 - $63.920 Hourly
• Grade VI - $51.697 - $70.775 Hourly
• Grade VII - $56.870 - $76.540 Hourly

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Under supervision, maintains, installs, repairs, plans and designs communication systems and equipment; may act in a lead or supervisory capacity; adapts, assembles, installs, and operates electronic equipment (e.g. mobile and portable radios, remote base stations, microwave systems, mobile data terminals, and cellular modems); may install, repair, maintain, configure, and upgrade TDM and VOIP telephone systems, IVRs, Call Centers, PBXs, and network cameras; may install, repair, maintain, configure, and upgrade data communication equipment such as hubs, routers, APs, and switches; may install, repair, maintain, configure, and upgrade servers; provides effective customer service by keeping customers informed of progress, ensuring satisfaction, providing advice, etc.; may develop, conduct, or implement in-service training programs, safety programs, field tests, and/or work inspections; may act as a project leader or liaison between user departments and the communications groups; may perform complex and detailed cost benefit analysis and feasibility studies; may represent the City during meetings with other regulatory bodies; may ensure strict enforcement and compliance with safety regulations; and performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements To File

Applicants must meet the requirements of Option A, Option B, or Option C to qualify:

Option A

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related (proof required) * AND one year of paid full-time experience equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless equivalent to a Systems Technician ;

Option B

An associate's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related field (proof required) *AND three (3) years of paid, full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician ;

Option C

Completion of a one-year certificate program from an accredited technical/vocational school with coursework in computer science, television communications, telecommunications, two-way radio or a related field (proof required) * AND four (4) years of paid full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician.

Opportunities For Substitution Of Education Or Experience

Additional related experience may be substituted for the education on a year-for-year basis.

• Proof of required documents, such as degrees and transcripts, must be uploaded to the online application at the time of filing. Any proofs submitted must contain either the applicant's name or other identifying characteristic on the form. Degree must indicate the field of study and transcripts must indicate field of study and degree conferred date. Candidates who possess degrees from colleges or universities from outside the United States must attach proof of educational equivalency at the time of filing.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing;
• Ability to provide effective customer service;
• Ability to move and lift up to 40 pounds;
• Ability to work at heights of 160 feet;

A Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radiotelephone Operator's License (GROL) is required before passing probation for some positions that configure and repair two-way radios in the Wireless Division.

Willingness to work an irregular schedule, including nights, weekends, overtime, and holidays.

A valid driver’s license or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel may be required for some assignments.

Desirable Qualifications

• Knowledge of cybersecurity concepts and principles, network security, and Zero-Trust Implementation.
• Experience integrating enterprise IT networks with operational technology systems (e.g., cameras, access control, BMS, or alarms).
• Experience with Cisco Routing and Switching, VPN, SDWAN, and site-to-site VPN.
• Experience with routing protocols and implementation.
• Experience with Cisco Enterprise Networks, Cisco Network Design, Architecture, and DNA/Catalyst.
• Cisco Certifications are desirable.
• Ability to update and create documentation, update Standard Operating Procedures, and train staff.
• Ability to design network topologies and update documentation to ensure accurate understanding and efficient troubleshooting of the network infrastructure.
• Ability to assist in investigations of security incidents, root cause analysis and resolution documentation in incident reports.
• Ability to manage large-scale deployments/projects.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

Examination Weights

Application and Supplemental Application ......................................................Qualifying

Screening of applicants will be conducted on the basis of application and required supplemental application submitted. This selection procedure will be conducted using a continuous non-competitive process, which means applications are evaluated solely on training, experience, education, or certification. All applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be placed on an eligible list. Applicants receiving Veteran’s Credit will be placed on the eligible list first and then in the order in which applications were filed. This is a continuous eligible list, which means eligible lists may be established periodically and may expire six months from their effective date. Applicants may apply only once during a four-month period. Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications with applications received by August 7, 2026, will be placed on Test #01 established eligible list.

If you have not received notification within two weeks after close of filing, please contact the Human Resources Department at [phone].

In accordance with Civil Service Procedure 3.38, all eligible veterans that successfully qualify on any or all open competitive examinations shall receive an additional credit of ten (10) points that will be added to their original passing score. Disabled veterans passing the examination shall receive a credit of fifteen (15) points that will be added to their original passing score. (A copy of the veterans DD-214, Member 4 form indicating honorable discharge must be attached to the application at the time of filing.)

This position is eligible for Local Hiring Preferences and Veterans Preference Points. Learn more about available preferences and eligibility criteria here: www.longbeach.gov/jobs/working-for-the-city/hiring-preferences

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

The City of Long Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as an individual with a disability, or other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We value diversity in our workforce and are committed to creating a workplace where every employee is respected and included. We strive to reflect the diversity of our community at all levels of the organization, promote fair and equitable employment practices, advance equity, and inclusion through our work with staff and community partners, and promote transparency by publishing workforce demographic information, including diversity and pay data by race and gender.

The City of Long Beach will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You are not required to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until you receive a conditional job offer. If the City of Long Beach has concerns about a conviction that is directly related to the job after making a conditional job offer and conducting a background check, you will have the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide evidence to mitigate concerns, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting https://calcivilrights.ca.gov/fair-chance-act

In support of the City's Language Access Policy, bilingual skills (Spanish, Khmer, and/or Tagalog) are desirable for positions interacting with the public.

This information is available in an alternative format by request at [phone]. If special accommodation is desired, please contact the Talent Management Department two (2) business days prior to the test at [phone]. For the hearing impaired, call 562) 570-6638.

An Equal Opportunity Employer.

H68AN-26B RC:CS 07/24/2026