Lead Network Engineer

Brown University; Rhode Island; Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University seeks a Lead Network Engineer to plan, design, and implement university-wide network services, including wired, wireless, and data center connectivity. You will oversee DNS/DHCP, VPN, and monitoring tools while leading on-call rotations and outage responses.

The role requires deep network expertise, strong communication, and the ability to guide cross-functional projects and mentor staff. Hybrid work location with after-hours duties may apply.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 7+ years designing, supporting, and maintaining complex enterprise/campus networks.
• CCNP or CWNA certifications preferred.
• Experience with network-focused scripting/tools (Python, Ansible, Perl).
• Ability to lead cross-functional projects and communicate with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and implement all network-related services at the University.
• Manage DNS/DHCP, load balancing, network authentication, VPN, WiFi, and monitoring tools.
• Lead on-call rotations, handle outages, and support operational requests.
• Develop technology roadmap content and present to management.
• Mentor junior staff and drive cross-team initiatives.

Skills

Network design

Project management

Strong communication

Networking troubleshooting

On-call experience

Education

Bachelor's degree (preferred)

CCNP or CWNA (preferred)

Tools

Cisco

HPE/Aruba switches & routers

Aruba ClearPass

Git

Python

Job description

Job Description:Lead Network EngineerOffice of Information TechnologyThe Lead Network Engineer works closely with other teams in the Office of Information Technology to plan, design, and implement all network-related services at the University. This includes supporting all wired, wireless, and data center networks as well as internet and cloud connectivity. Related network services include DNS/DHCP, load balancing, network authentication, client and p2p VPN, WiFi and management/monitoring tools.This position maintains the Brown community's network through a rotating on-call schedule, leading service restoration efforts, handling outages and supporting operational requests. It requires flexibility to perform after-hours work or critical network changes. Leveraging strong technical expertise and communication skills, the Lead Network Engineer develops project proposals and plans, collaborates across teams, and manages initiatives with minimal supervision while effectively communicating with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.In addition, the Lead Network Engineer independently researches new technologies, services, and products through a variety of methods, including correspondence with peers, vendor meetings, classes, conferences, and online forums. As opportunities are recognized, the Lead Network Engineer would develop content and present information to the team, management or others to assist in developing a technology roadmap and budget. Serving as a technical leader, this role represents the network team across all levels of the organization and mentors junior staff to foster professional growth and strengthen the team’s collective technical proficiency.Education and Required ExperienceBachelor’s degree preferredTraining/certifications (such as CCNP, CWNA) preferred.7+ years of experience designing, supporting, and maintaining complex enterprise or campus networks is required, including a minimum of 5 years of experience specifically focused on the design, support, and troubleshooting of complex wireless networks.Experience with or working knowledge of network-focused programming and scripting tools and languages, such as Python, Ansible, and Perl.Strong project management and organizational skills.Preferred ExperienceExperience with Cisco, and HPE/Aruba switching and routingExperience with HPE/Aruba wireless networks and Aruba ClearPassExperience using DevOps practices to automate, test, manage, and deploy network configurations and changes, including the use of Git or similar version-control tools.Experience utilizing AI platforms to enable or enhance network automation.Gemini / Claude Code / ChatGPT WorkModel Context Protocol (MCP)Experience supporting Network Source of Truth platformsExperience working in an authenticated environment using technologies such as 802.1xProven ability to administer an enterprise-level DNS, DHCP and NTP solutionAdvanced expertise and demonstrated experience in the following areas:Routing and switching on enterprise network systemsDesigning, implementing, and troubleshooting BGP, OSPF, VRF-Lite, and spanning-treeHA network configuration options (VSS, VPC, SVS, MC-LAG), failover, and troubleshootingWireless network concepts using centralized controllers, encryption methods, authentication, and RF planning.Strong knowledge of the F5 product portfolioServer load balancing using Local Traffic Manager(LTM)DNS load balancing using Global Traffic Manager (GTM)Fortinet Firewall configuration and performance tuningClient and P2P VPN technologies, IPSec VPN, DMVPN, SSLVPNMonitoring protocols such as syslog, SNMP and NetFlowPacket capturing tools using Wireshark or tcpdumpExperience with Disaster Recovery planning and supportKnowledge of Private Cellular / CBRS technologiesExperience with DWDM technologies, preferably Cisco NCS/ONSMust be able to independently lead cross-functional project teamsFamiliarity with Windows, OSX, and Linux operating systemsExperience with leading small to midsize projects required.Customer-facing technical support role requiring verbal and written communication with customers and using a ticketing system requiredMust be able to participate in a rotating on-call schedule and the ability to work after hours to implement critical network technology changes as needed.Strong critical and analytical thinking skills.Ability to multitask and prioritize activitiesAbility to work well both independently and as part of a teamStrong time management skills and reliable follow-throughGood written and oral communications skills required.Excellent customer service skills; tact and sensitivity in dealing with a diverse user communitySuccessful completion of a criminal background check and education verification is required. This position is also subject to Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) requirements.Benefits of Working at Brown:Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.Recruiting Start Date:2026-09-28Job Posting Title:Lead Network EngineerDepartment:Office of Information TechnologyGrade:Grade 11Worker Type:EmployeeWorker Sub-Type:RegularTime Type:Full timeScheduled Weekly Hours:37.5Position Work Location:HybridSubmission Guidelines:The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.Still Have Questions?If you have any questions you may contact [e-mail] is an E-Verify Employer.EEO Statement:Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.