Postbaccalaureate Appointee – Network Technician

argonne; Lemont (IL); On-site; USD 58,656 - 92,273; Full time

Job summary

Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, IL seeks a recent bachelor’s degree graduate to gain hands-on experience at the intersection of data networks and high-performance computing (HPC). You will join a collaborative team to install, configure, and document network systems in a demanding scientific environment.

The role emphasizes applying core networking concepts, scripting for automation, and working within Linux-based systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree completed in CS/comp sci/data science or related field.
• Solid foundation in core networking concepts and hands-on routing/switching
• Aptitude for writing clean code and automating tasks in Linux environments.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, rack, and stack network hardware including routers, switches, patch panels, and rack assemblies.
• Install, terminate, label, and test cabling per structured standards.
• Maintain clean server rooms, network closets, and documentation maps.

Skills

Networking concepts

Scripting fundamentals

Linux command line

Teamwork

Documentation skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Linux

Python scripting

Job description

Overview

Our Leadership Computing Facility is seeking a recent bachelor’s degree graduate interested in developing hands‑on experience at the intersection of data networks and high-performance computing (HPC).

Responsibilities

• Assemble, rack, and stack network hardware including routers, switches, patch panels, and rack assemblies.
• Install, terminate, label, and test cabling according to structured cabling standards.
• Maintain clean and organized server rooms, network closets, and documentation maps.
• Perform basic, template-driven configurations on switches, routers, and wireless access points under the direction of senior engineering staff.
• Assist with software patches, firmware updates, and routine backups of network device configurations.
• Monitor network performance alerts using basic tools.
• Troubleshoot Tier 1 and Tier 2 network connectivity issues.
• Update and maintain network topology diagrams, inventory logs, and IP address management.
• Coordinate hardware RMAs (Return Merchandise Authorizations) for faulty or failing equipment with vendors.
• Assist with network automation efforts by writing and maintaining scripts and tools to automate repetitive tasks and gather device data.

Position Requirements

• Recently completed a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computational science, data science, or a related field, with demonstrated ability to apply academic knowledge to real‑world technical challenges.
• Solid foundation in core networking concepts, with hands‑on experience configuring, troubleshooting, and managing routing and switching environments.
• Adept at leveraging programming fundamentals to write, test, and debug clean code for software applications and automated network scripts.
• Proficient in operating within Linux‑based environments, with strong command‑line navigation and system tooling knowledge.
• Ability to work both autonomously and collaboratively, contributing effectively to team‑based projects while taking ownership of individual responsibilities.
• Strong written and/or oral communication skills, including the ability to document workflows, explain technical concepts, and communicate progress or issues.
• Ability to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

Job Family

Temporary

Job Profile

Postbaccalaureate Appointee

Worker Type

Long-Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $58,656.00-$92,273.00.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.

All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case‑by‑case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.