IT Network Administrator

Clarity Partners; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Clarity Partners in Chicago, IL seeks an IT Network Administrator to support enterprise networks, ensuring performance, security, and reliability in a hybrid role.

You will install and maintain network hardware/software, manage Microsoft 365, Windows Server AD/GP, VMware vSphere, Fortinet firewalls, and monitor SLAs.

The ideal candidate has 2–3 years of experience, a Bachelor's in IT/CS, and relevant certifications.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of professional network administration experience; 3–5 years preferred.
• Hands-on experience with Microsoft 365, Windows Server, AD/GP, and security.
• Certifications such as CCNA, Network+, Fortinet NSE, VMware VCP are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary network administrator for enterprise environments.
• Install, configure, and maintain network hardware, software, and services.
• Manage Microsoft 365 including Exchange Online, Entra ID, and SharePoint.
• Administer Windows Server environments: Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, GPO.
• Support VMware vSphere/ESXi environments and performance optimization.
• Configure Fortinet firewalls and security appliances.
• Monitor networks to meet SLAs and troubleshoot issues.
• Perform backups, DR planning, audits, and documentation.

Skills

Network administration

Microsoft 365

Windows Server

VMware vSphere

Fortinet Firewall

TCP/IP

DNS

DHCP

VLANs

VPNs

Security best practices

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology or Computer Science

Tools

Exchange Online

Entra ID/Azure AD

SharePoint

Teams

vSphere/ESXi

Fortinet

Job description

IT Network Administrator

Location: Chicago, IL. The role supports enterprise-level network environments, ensuring optimal performance, security, and reliability across multiple systems. The position reports in a hybrid setting.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary network administrator supporting enterprise network environments.
• Install, configure, maintain, and support network hardware, software, and communication systems.
• Administer and support Microsoft 365 environments, including user management, licensing, and security configurations.
• Manage and maintain Microsoft Server environments (Windows Server), including Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy.
• Support and administer VMware virtualized environments, including provisioning, monitoring, and performance optimization.
• Configure and manage Fortinet firewalls and security appliances to ensure network protection and compliance.
• Monitor network performance to ensure reliability and adherence to service level agreements (SLAs).
• Troubleshoot and resolve connectivity, performance, and infrastructure issues.
• Implement and manage network security measures to protect against unauthorized access, cyber threats, and data breaches.
• Conduct routine network audits to identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Manage backup and disaster recovery processes to prevent data loss and ensure business continuity.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of network configurations, procedures, and changes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional IT teams to support infrastructure initiatives and upgrades.
• Respond to network emergencies and security incidents to minimize downtime.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 2-3 years of professional experience in network administration required; 3-5 years preferred.
• Hands‑on experience administering Microsoft 365 (Exchange Online, Entra ID/Azure AD, SharePoint, Teams).
• Experience managing Microsoft Windows Server environments, including Active Directory and Group Policy.
• Experience supporting VMware virtual environments (vSphere/ESXi).
• Experience configuring and managing Fortinet firewalls and network security solutions.
• Strong knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, VPNs), routing, and switching.
• Experience with network monitoring and diagnostic tools.
• Familiarity with backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity planning.
• Understanding of cybersecurity frameworks and security best practices.
• Relevant certifications such as CCNA, Network+, Fortinet NSE, VMware VCP, or Microsoft certifications preferred.
• Citrix Workspace administration experience is a plus.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and communication skills.

Compensation

Base salary pay range: $100,000 – $120,000. The range is a good‑faith estimate and may be modified based on skills, experience, and other factors.