Director of Network Operations

Biola University, Inc.; La Mirada (CA); On-site; USD 131,794 - 164,743; Full time

Job summary

Biola University, Inc. in La Mirada, California, is seeking a Director of Network Operations to manage network design, installation, and support. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology and over 5 years of experience in the field.

This role involves leading a team, ensuring the reliability of network systems and projects, and aligning with Biola’s theological values. Applicants should demonstrate strong communication and project management skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Information Technology.
• 5+ years of experience in network design and management.
• Certification in network technologies (CCNP, CompTIA).

Responsibilities

• Oversee the design and support of network infrastructure.
• Manage Network Operations team and associated projects.
• Develop strong inter-departmental collaboration.

Skills

Network hardware and software

Project management

Communication skills

Network security best practices

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology or related field

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

CompTIA Network+

Tools

Routers and switches

Wireless LAN controllers

Firewalls

Job description

Director of Network Operations

Position Description

The Director of Network Operations is responsible for overseeing the design, installation, and support of voice and data network infrastructure. This leadership role includes managing a team of network professionals, coordinating with other departments, and ensuring the seamless operation and security of network systems across the organization. The Director will also manage infrastructure-related projects and ensure network reliability, security, and scalability. This role requires strong technical expertise, project management skills, and the ability to mentor and develop staff.

Alignment with Theological Positions

Alignment with Theological Positions: The person who fills this position must be someone who personally agrees with Biola’s Articles of Faith and who is supportive of the positions taken by Biola as contained in its Statement of Biblical Principles and Eschatology Teaching Position. As such, this person may not speak against or act in a manner inconsistent with these positions during the course of their employment at Biola.

Department

Information Technology

Supervisor

The Director of Network Operations is under the supervision of the Chief Information Officer (CIO).

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in network design, installation, and maintenance, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), CompTIA Network+, or similar.

Work Requirements

• Full-time – 40 hours/week, 12 months per year.
• This position requires personal attendance at Biola’s campus in La Mirada, California.

Essential Duties

Management Duties

• Engage in Biola IT through active participation as part of the IT leadership team.
• Develop, build, and manage the Network Operations team. Support, coach, and develop team members in their career growth, meeting 1-1 with team members on a regular basis.
• Oversee day-to-day issues, act as an escalation point to resolve urgent and/or complex client issues and manage client expectations.
• Coordinate tasks and staff assignments based on established priorities and approved projects to promote efficient operation.
• Organize and lead activities relating to the management and completion of projects.
• Establish goals, performance and accountability measures to ensure the team meets timelines and goals, working within budgetary guidelines, and providing a high level of customer service and delivery.
• Interface with our business partners to understand requirements, set priorities and communicate direction and progress.

Duties

• Lead the design, installation, configuration, and support of voice and data network infrastructure.
• Supervise staff in the installation, termination, testing, and troubleshooting of network, phone, wireless, card access, and security camera systems.
• Manage IT infrastructure construction projects, coordinating with Facilities and other departments on the requirements, design, oversight, implementation, and billing.
• Ensure the availability, reliability, and security of network systems, including LAN, WAN, WLAN, firewalls, and VPNs.
• Oversee the organization and inventory management of IT infrastructure storage spaces.
• Serve as a project manager for network infrastructure projects, including labor and material estimation.
• Maintain and support the physical portion of the card access system, including hardware installation and troubleshooting.
• Monitor network performance, troubleshoot issues, and provide technical support to IT staff and end users.
• Document and update network configurations, processes, and procedures.
• Mentor and develop associate network and infrastructure technicians.
• Serve as an emergency contact for system outages, responding promptly as needed.
• Stay current with evolving technologies through training and development opportunities.
• Other duties as needed by the department and defined by the supervisor.

Required Skills/Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of network hardware and software including routers, switches, wireless LAN controllers, firewalls, and VPNs.
• Proficiency in cabling and wiring installation, testing, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with network security best practices and technologies.
• Strong project management skills and ability to work with cross-functional teams.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to mentor and develop staff.
• Knowledge of physical security systems (card access & security cameras).
• Ability to rotate as an emergency contact for system outages.
• Experience working in an educational or large campus environment.
• Knowledge of infrastructure and construction project management.
• Passionate about quality and fostering industry best practices.
• You show everyone respect, regardless of the circumstances. You learn from others and help your peers and direct reports.
• You can express yourself clearly through written and verbal communication.
• You can explain complex technical concepts and problems in plain english that business partners can understand.
• You organize your work, tracking multiple requests, constraints, and deadlines.
• Ability to work nights and weekends on an as-needed basis.

Hiring Range: $131,794.00 - 164,743.00 annual