Datacenter Network Specialist

RED Group; Metairie (LA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

RED Group in Metairie, LA is seeking a Datacenter Network Specialist to lead installation, commissioning, and support of industrial networks powering EPMS and BMS in datacenter environments.

You will work from senior designs to deploy converged OT networks, including DLR topologies and fiber ring architectures, partnering with controls engineers and facilities teams to ensure high availability and deterministic performance.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree or higher in Network Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Computer Science, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years installing and troubleshooting industrial Ethernet networks in manufacturing, utilities, or critical facilities environments.
• At least 1 year of experience with Building Management Systems or industrial control systems in datacenter environments preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with Rockwell Automation EtherNet/IP networks and DLR topology configuration in ControlLogix or CompactLogix.
• Working knowledge of industrial Ethernet protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, BACnet/IP) and redundancy technologies (DLR, STP/RSTP, MRP).
• Experience with fiber optic infrastructure - single-mode and multi-mode, LC/SC/MPO connectors, SFP/SFP+ transceivers; interpreting optical power budgets and OTDR/test docs.
• Experience configuring managed industrial switches (Cisco IE/Stratix, Hirschmann, or equivalent) including VLAN, QoS, IGMP snooping, and port security.
• Proficiency with Studio 5000 Logix Designer and network diagnostic tools (Wireshark, DSX, network management systems).
• Strong IP networking fundamentals: subnetting, routing, NAT, DNS, NTP, and OT firewall concepts.
• Valid driver's license; ability to obtain TWIC card.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate on industrial Ethernet network architectures for datacenter EPMS and BMS applications.
• Prepare network topology drawings, single-line diagrams, and BOMs for fiber ring and DLR networks.
• Configure DLR topologies and VLAN strategies per ISA/IEC 62443 designs.
• Coordinate with low-voltage cabling contractor during fiber installation and perform patch panel connections.
• Configure and commission managed industrial switches within Rockwell control panel assemblies.
• Install and validate DLR topology and STP/RSTP configurations with deterministic convergence times.
• Review OTDR traces and power loss measurements; verify link quality before switch commissioning.
• Integrate network infrastructure with Rockwell ControlLogix/CompactLogix PLCs and BMS controllers.
• Execute FAT/SAT protocols including fault-injection tests for DLR/fiber rings and dual-fed power failover.
• Perform network performance characterization (latency, jitter, bandwidth); verify VLAN trunking, QoS, and multicast settings.
• Produce and maintain as-built network documentation (rack elevations, IP databases, switch archives).
• Diagnose and resolve faults (DLR ring breaks, STP changes, EtherNet/IP issues) using Cisco DNA Center and Rockwell tools.
• Provide on-site support during commissioning, startup, and post-occupancy phases.

Skills

EtherNet/IP

DLR topology

Fiber optics

Cisco switches

STP/RSTP

VLAN QoS

Network diagnostics

IP routing

OT security

Education

Associate degree or higher in Network Tech / EE / CS

Tools

Studio 5000

Wireshark

DNA Center

Fluke DSX

Job description

We are RED Group. And We're Thinking Ahead.

RED Group is an Industrial Control Systems (ICS) technology development and integration firm specializing in Process Automation, IT/OT Consulting, and Industrial Cybersecurity. We stand out in experience and expertise. We are committed to an employee-centric culture of success where we put our people first and give our staff the opportunities and push that they need to succeed and improve. As a result, they give their utmost to help our clients and get better at what they do each day.

Our mission is to add value to our clients' organizations by selecting and deploying the proper resources and technology to ensure their goals are realized. Our team of Engineers, Consultants, Programmers, and Technicians provide the valuable expertise necessary for efficient and secure IC S/OT environments.

We're continuing to expand and are looking for a Datacenter Network Specialist to join our team! This is a field-based, travel-intensive position performed primarily within active datacenter environments, supporting the installation and commissioning of industrial networks that power mission-critical electrical and building management systems. Candidates should be comfortable working in confined spaces, on ladders, and around energized electrical equipment while adhering to all safety and operational protocols. This is a project-based role with a variable schedule driven by commissioning and startup timelines, including occasional off-hours support and travel to project sites, client facilities, and vendor locations (up to 50%).

About the Role

The Datacenter Network Specialist leads the installation, commissioning, and ongoing support of industrial networks powering datacenter Electrical Power Management Systems (EPMS) and Building Management Systems (BMS). Working from senior engineers' designs, this role independently deploys converged OT network infrastructure - including Rockwell Automation DLR topologies, fiber optic ring architectures with STP/RSTP redundancy, and managed Ethernet switching - partnering with controls engineers and facility operations teams to deliver resilient, high-availability networks for critical datacenter systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with senior network and controls engineers on industrial Ethernet network architectures for datacenter EPMS and BMS applications, including HVAC, electrical distribution, chiller plants, and critical power systems.
• Assist in preparing network topology drawings, single-line diagrams, and bills-of-materials for fiber optic ring and DLR networks.
• Implement DLR configurations for Rockwell Automation EtherNet/IP control panels and execute IP addressing and VLAN segmentation strategies per engineer-approved designs, consistent with ISA/IEC 62443 best practices.
• Coordinate with the low-voltage cabling contractor during fiber optic infrastructure installation; perform patch panel connections and fiber jumper routing within control panels and network enclosures per approved drawings.
• Configure and commission managed industrial Ethernet switches (e.g., Cisco IE series, Stratix 5400/5700) within Rockwell Automation control panel assemblies.
• Install and validate DLR topology and STP/RSTP configurations, confirming ring supervisor election, fault-recovery operation, and deterministic convergence times against design acceptance criteria.
• Review fiber optic test documentation (OTDR traces, power loss measurements); perform optical link budget verification and spot-check power measurements to confirm link quality prior to switch commissioning.
• Integrate network infrastructure with Rockwell Automation ControlLogix/CompactLogix PLCs, PowerMonitor energy meters, and third-party BMS controllers (BACnet/IP, Modbus TCP).
• Execute Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) and Site Acceptance Test (SAT) protocols, including fault-injection testing of DLR/fiber ring topologies and dual-fed power failover testing on network enclosures and switches.
• Perform network performance characterization (latency, jitter, bandwidth utilization) and verify VLAN trunking, QoS configurations, and multicast settings for EtherNet/IP implicit messaging.
• Produce and maintain as-built network documentation, including rack elevations, cable schedules, IP address databases, switch configuration archives, and fiber plant records.
• Diagnose and resolve network faults in industrial network environments (DLR ring breaks, STP topology changes, EtherNet/IP connection failures) using tools such as Cisco DNA Center, Studio 5000 Logix Designer, and FactoryTalk Network Manager.
• Provide on-site technical support during commissioning, startup, and post-occupancy phases, including off-hours support for critical datacenter facilities.

Qualifications & Skills

• Associate's degree or higher in Network Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Computer Science, or a related field; equivalent combination of education and hands‑on experience considered.
• Minimum 2 years of experience installing and troubleshooting industrial Ethernet networks in manufacturing, utilities, or critical facilities environments.
• At least 1 year of experience with Building Management Systems or industrial control systems in datacenter environments preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with Rockwell Automation EtherNet/IP networks and DLR topology configuration in ControlLogix or CompactLogix environments.
• Working knowledge of industrial Ethernet protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, BACnet/IP) and redundancy technologies (DLR, STP/RSTP, MRP).
• Experience with fiber optic infrastructure - single-mode and multi-mode cable, LC/SC/MPO connectors, SFP/SFP+ transceivers - and interpreting optical power budgets and contractor-provided OTDR/insertion loss test documentation.
• Experience configuring managed industrial switches (Cisco IE/Stratix series, Hirschmann, or equivalent), including VLAN, QoS, IGMP snooping, and port security.
• Proficiency with Rockwell Automation Studio 5000 Logix Designer and network diagnostic tools (Wireshark, Fluke DSX cable certifiers, network management systems).
• Solid IP networking fundamentals: subnetting, routing, NAT, DNS, NTP, and firewall concepts in OT environments.
• Familiarity with relevant standards: IEEE 802.1D/w/Q, TIA-568/942, ISA/IEC 62443, and ANSI/BICSI 002.
• Preferred certifications: CCNA, Rockwell Automation Certified Specialist – Networks & Security, ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Certificate, or CDCP (Certified Datacenter Professional).
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry equipment up to 50 lbs. and work in confined spaces, on ladders, in raised‑floor environments, and in active datacenter facilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid driver's license is required.
• Must have the ability to obtain a TWIC card.
• Ability to partner with clients, vendors, and other team members to deliver projects.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects and priorities.
• Strong interpersonal, leadership, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Embrace our core values while enjoying a collaborative and engaging atmosphere:
  • Be Dependable
  • Cultivate Relationships
  • Strive for Excellence
• Foster and promote a strong safety culture and follow company safety protocols.

Why RED Group?

Culture. Growth. Opportunity.

At RED Group, we believe that a thriving workplace starts with a strong, employee-centric culture. Our focus on our people ensures they have the resources, support and opportunities needed to excel. Our commitment to success drives outstanding results in our client engagements, with our team always striving for excellence.

If you join RED Group, you'll enjoy:

• A collaborative team environment that values your contribution.
• Competitive benefits and flexible schedules.
• The stability of a well-established company poised for exciting growth.
• A fun and rewarding career that challenges you while offering opportunities for you to grow and excel.

If you're a self-starter looking for a fulfilling career filled with unique growth opportunities where you can challenge yourself, RED Group is the place for you.

Work Authorization:

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

Agency Submissions:

RED Group does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiting or staffing agencies. Agencies must have a current, signed agreement in place prior to submitting any candidate - resumes submitted without one will be considered the property of RED Group and no fees will be paid. Please do not forward resumes directly to employees or hiring managers.