Network Systems Administrator

NAES; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 98,300 - 113,050; Full time

Job summary

NAES is looking for a Network Systems Administrator in Houston to ensure smooth network operations and security. This full-time position involves troubleshooting network issues, managing diverse network apparatus, and coordinating with IT teams.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, have experience in managing Cisco devices, and be proficient with enterprise networks. The role requires good communication skills and a commitment to safety and compliance.

Qualifications

• Experience with managing Cisco routers, switches, and firewalls is essential.
• Strong understanding of enterprise network design including LAN, WAN, and data center.
• Hands-on experience in large-scale network administration.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and troubleshoot complex network and security incidents.
• Plan and implement enterprise network architecture.
• Ensure network security and compliance with industry standards.

Skills

Network engineering

Troubleshooting

Cybersecurity

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, networking or related field

Tools

Cisco network devices

Network monitoring tools

Job description

Company Overview

Gridforce Energy Management’s mission is to ensure power flows consistently and reliability while enhancing our client’s profitability and reducing their risk exposure. Since 1999, Gridforce has been providing precision energy control and integration management services to micro-grids, load‑serving entities and demand response clients throughout North America. Our employees are constantly iterating, solving problems, and working together to improve the business of our diverse client base from cities, municipalities and electric cooperatives, in addition to generation owners and operators.

Summary

The Network Systems Administrator is responsible for the smooth and secure operation of network devices and network connectivity. The position is responsible for maintaining core enterprise systems, troubleshooting and maintenance of network hardware, intrusion prevention and detection, and collaboration with other staff and teams. This position requires compliance with IT best practices and regulatory standards. This is a full‑time, primarily in‑person position located in our downtown Houston office.

Primary Responsibilities

• Analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve complex network and security incidents, performance issues, and outages.
• Participate in planning, design, and implementation of the company’s enterprise network architecture (LAN, WAN, VPN, DMVPN, Internet, and data center networks).
• Manage, operate, and optimize data center network facilities to meet reliability, performance, and scalability requirements.
• Implement and maintain network security and cybersecurity controls, including firewalls, segmentation, access control, and threat mitigation.
• Maintain full life cycle of networking hardware; configuration, deployment, patching, upgrades, backups and replacement.
• Develop and maintain network documentation, standards, diagrams, device inventory and operational procedures.
• Keep systems up to date with current security updates and vendor recommended updates.
• Utilize monitoring tools to troubleshoot and improve availability, latency, and overall health.
• Investigate new technology and provide recommendations on system improvements and life cycle planning.
• Availability for after‑hours support and maintenance as needed.
• Follow proper change control procedures and adhere to industry compliance standards.

Working Relationships

The Network Systems Administrator reports to the IT Manager and works in relation to other IT team members. This position will also require coordination with the operations team, applications team, and other staff within the organization.

Compensation

The initial compensation will range from $98,300 to $113,050.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, networking, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.

Experience

• Hands‑on experience in network engineering, administration, or related roles.
• Experience supporting large‑scale, multi‑site networks, preferably in manufacturing or industrial environments.

Required Qualifications

• Experience managing Cisco network devices (routers/switches/firewalls).
• Understanding of enterprise network architecture design, including LAN, WAN, Internet, and data center networking.
• Experience with network monitoring tools/software.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional‑level certifications such as CCNA, CCNP, Network +.
• Solid understanding and practical experience with VLANs, IPsec VPN, DMVPN, and EIGRP.
• Experience managing Cisco next generation firewalls/Firepower.
• Experience following compliance standards such as NERC CIP, PCI‑DSS, or SOC, or similar regulated environment.
• Experience with SolarWinds, Netwrix, syslog analysis or other monitoring tools.
• Experience following structured change control procedures.

Other Considerations

• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. The ability to relay technical information to non‑technical coworkers is preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

Typical work schedule is Monday‑Friday during normal business hours. Additional time may be required during heavy workloads, to meet deadlines, or to respond to issues that occur after normal business hours. This position works in an office and data center environment. Must be able to travel to remote data centers or business locations that are in the Houston and the Dallas area. Must be able to lift 40lbs. Ability to sit for long periods of time, ability to communicate verbally and in writing, and ability to handle long periods of screen time.

Fit for Duty

This is a Non‑DOT position and all employees will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program. This program includes a drug screening.

Performance

NAES employees have the responsibility to customers and internal co‑workers to perform in their role with the highest standards. Employees are accountable for meeting and exceeding the needs of our customers with unwavering integrity.

NAES Safe

Safety is a core value of NAES; as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to be mentally alert and work safely at all times. Employees are required to adhere to all safety warnings and posted safety signs, wherever on company property. Employees must follow all NAES safety rules and procedures; effectiveness in carrying out this responsibility is part of the evaluation of each employee’s performance.

Equal Opportunity Statement

It is the practice of NAES to seek employees of the highest quality and to select individuals on the basis of merit and competence, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, military status or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other basis of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state and federal law.