Network Engineer

Horizontal Talent; Eau Claire (WI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

Horizontal Talent seeks a hands-on Network Engineer to support enterprise switching and routing infrastructure in Eau Claire, WI. This 12-month contract focuses on solving Layer 1–3 challenges, configuring Cisco hardware, and collaborating with a skilled engineering team.

You will install, configure, and maintain equipment, provision Cisco Catalyst C9000 switches and C8000 routers, and document configurations and SOPs. Strong communication and independent work ethic are essential.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of the OSI model (Layers 1–3).
• Hands-on experience configuring Cisco Catalyst C9000 switches.
• Hands-on experience configuring Cisco Catalyst C8000 routers.
• Experience supporting enterprise network infrastructure at access/distribution layers.
• Analytical troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and maintain enterprise network equipment across access and distribution layers.
• Provision and deploy Cisco Catalyst C9000 switches and Cisco Catalyst C8000 routers.
• Troubleshoot network issues using structured OSI model approach (Layers 1–3).
• Maintain documentation for configurations, topology, and SOPs.
• Work independently on initiatives while communicating updates to teammates and stakeholders.
• Support day-to-day network operations and ensure stable infrastructure performance.

Skills

OSI model & L1-L3

Cisco networking

Independent work

Written & verbal communication

Troubleshooting

Documentation

Collaboration

Tools

Cisco Catalyst C9000 series switches

Cisco Catalyst C8000 series routers

Job description

We are looking for a hands-on Network Engineer to support enterprise switching and routing infrastructure in a dynamic environment. This 12-month opportunity is ideal for a self-directed professional who enjoys solving Layer 1–3 network challenges, configuring Cisco enterprise hardware, and partnering closely with a collaborative engineering team.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and maintain enterprise network equipment across access and distribution layers
• Provision and deploy Cisco Catalyst C9000 series switches and Cisco Catalyst C8000 series routers
• Troubleshoot and resolve network issues using a structured OSI model approach with emphasis on Layers 1 through 3
• Maintain accurate documentation for configurations, topology updates, and standard operating procedures
• Work independently on assigned initiatives while keeping teammates and stakeholders informed with clear, timely communication
• Support day-to-day network operations and contribute to reliable, stable infrastructure performance

Skills

• Strong working knowledge of networking fundamentals, especially the OSI model and Layers 1 through 3
• Hands-on experience configuring and deploying Cisco Catalyst C9000 series switches
• Hands-on experience configuring and deploying Cisco Catalyst C8000 series routers
• Practical experience supporting enterprise network infrastructure at the access and distribution layers
• Ability to investigate outages and performance issues using analytical, methodical troubleshooting techniques
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Self-motivated approach with the ability to take ownership of tasks and follow through independently

Preferred Skills

• Experience with Multi-Chassis EtherChannel (MEC) configurations
• Exposure to SD-WAN deployment or administration
• Experience creating clear technical documentation and process guides
• Collaborative mindset with a proactive approach to teamwork and status updates

Horizontal is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where different perspectives are valued and everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about building reliable network solutions in an environment that supports respect, collaboration, and growth.

By applying for this position, you acknowledge and agree that Horizontal Talent may contact you regarding your application using automated technology, including phone calls, SMS/text messages, or email, which may be delivered by our virtual AI recruiter, Alex.