Network Engineer, Entry Level

Independent Software, Inc.; Columbia (MD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Independent Software in Columbia, MD is seeking a Telecommunications Network Engineer Level 0 to support the maintenance and sustainment of voice and data networks, identifying and resolving issues to ensure reliable service.

You will monitor network operations, respond to alarms, troubleshoot routine problems, operate network analyzers and WAN test equipment, and perform scheduled maintenance per established procedures.

Qualifications

• Two years of experience supporting programs/contracts of similar scope.
• Experience with network monitoring, troubleshooting, and problem resolution.
• WAN technologies experience: SONET (OC3/OC48/OC192), DS3, and T1.
• Experience with MPLS, BGP, VPNs, or related networking tech.
• Ability to follow detailed technical procedures and communicate with users and vendors.
• IAT Level II baseline certification as defined by DoD 8570.01-M is required.
• Active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph is required.

Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance and sustainment of existing networks and correct issues.
• Monitor data and voice networks for alarms, messages, and performance issues.
• Operate network analyzers, WAN test equipment, and network simulators.
• Troubleshoot routine network problems using scripts and established procedures.
• Document network issues, alarms, corrective actions, and resolutions.
• Execute scheduled maintenance routines and manage activation/deactivation of network lines.
• Interface with users and network vendors to resolve issues.
• Follow detailed technical work instructions and procedures.

Skills

Network monitoring

Troubleshooting

WAN technologies (SONET/OC3/OC48/OC192

TACLANE/KG-175 or similar

MPLS/BGP/VPNs

Follow procedures & communication

Education

Associate’s degree in Engineering Technology

Tools

Cisco equipment

Brocade equipment

Juniper equipment

TACLANE/KG-175

MPLS/VPN/BGP tooling

Job description

What You Will Do

At Independent Software, as a Telecommunications Network Engineer Level 0, you will support the maintenance and sustainment of existing voice and data networks while identifying and resolving network issues. You will monitor network operations, respond to alarms, troubleshoot routine problems, and perform scheduled maintenance to help ensure reliable network availability.

What You Will Do

At Independent Software, as a Telecommunications Network Engineer Level 0, you will support the maintenance and sustainment of existing voice and data networks while identifying and resolving network issues. You will monitor network operations, respond to alarms, troubleshoot routine problems, and perform scheduled maintenance to help ensure reliable network availability.

This role involves using network analyzers, WAN test equipment, and network simulators while following established procedures and working with users, vendors, and technical teams to resolve network issues.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance and sustainment of existing networks and identify and correct issues
• Monitor data and voice networks for alarms, messages, and performance issues
• Operate network analyzers, WAN test equipment, and network simulators
• Troubleshoot routine network problems using scripts and established procedures
• Determine the severity of network issues and initiate resolution or escalation as appropriateDocument network issues, alarms, corrective actions, and resolutions
• Execute scheduled maintenance routines in accordance with established procedures
• Activate and deactivate network lines according to established schedules
• Perform first- and second-level problem determination
• Interface with users and network vendors to resolve issues
• Follow detailed technical work instructions and procedures

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Two (2) years of experience supporting programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity
• Experience with network monitoring, troubleshooting, and problem resolution
• Experience supporting WAN technologies such as SONET (OC3, OC48, OC192), DS3, and T1
• Experience with TACLANE/KG-175 or similar technologiesExperience with MPLS, BGP, VPNs, or similar networking technologies
• Ability to follow detailed technical procedures and communicate effectively with users and vendors

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience installing and configuring network devices such as firewalls, switches, routers, and cabling
• Experience with Cisco, Brocade, or Juniper equipment
• CompTIA Network+, CCENT, CCNA, CCNP, CCIE, or equivalent certification

Education and Experience

• Associate’s degree in Engineering Technology from an accredited college; OR
• Two (2) additional years of Network Engineering experience may be substituted for the Associate’s degree

Certifications

• IAT Level II baseline certification as defined by DoD 8570.01-M is required

Clearance Requirement

• Must possess an active TS/SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software

At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.

When you join us, you will:

• Support critical national security missions that matter
• Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
• Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
• Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.