Senior Network Engineer

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme seeks a senior network specialist in Cape Town to manage and optimize network systems and security. Candidates should have extensive experience with Cisco technologies, solid communication skills, and the ability to work autonomously on various networking projects.

Qualifications

• At least 8 years’ experience in designing, implementing or supporting network environments.
• Extensive experience with Cisco or HP networking technologies required.
• Ability to work after hours for support.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with NSFAS ICT security policies and standards.
• Monitor network systems for performance and availability.
• Provide technical assistance to staff and resolve inquiries.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Network troubleshooting

Education

NQF level 7 in Computer Science / Information Systems / Information Technology

Tools

Cisco technologies

HP networking technologies

Cloud computing

Job description

Job Location : Western Cape, Cape Town Deadline : June 28, 2025 Quick Recommended Links

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RESPONSIBILITIES :

Policy, Systems and Procedure Implementation

• Ensure all network equipment and configurations comply fully with NSFAS ICT security policies and standards.

Core Strategic / Operations Objectives Implementation

• Maintain up-to-date and thorough understanding of core Internet technologies including DNS, Security, IP Routing, HTTP, VPN, Email Routing, and SPAM filtering.
• Demonstrate proficiency in configuring and setting up Fortinet Firewalls, VPNs, and security appliances with zero critical errors.
• Successfully design, configure, and deploy complex switching environments that meet organisational performance and security requirements.
• Design and implement wireless network solutions that support secure access, voice, and video applications with minimal downtime and high user satisfaction.
• Configure and install client and server network software upgrades and maintain telecommunication systems with 99.9% uptime across multi-site operations.
• Monitor network systems and servers continuously to ensure availability and performance, with proactive issue detection and resolution.
• Provide timely and effective technical assistance to staff, administrators, service providers, and vendors, resolving inquiries within agreed service levels.
• Troubleshoot and resolve network hardware, software, telephone, and security system malfunctions promptly to minimize operational disruptions.
• Set up and manage network user accounts, permissions, and passwords securely and efficiently, ensuring compliance with organisational policies.
• Ensure NSFAS ICT security compliance at both network and procedural levels, conducting regular audits and risk assessments.

People Management & Ethical Leadership

• Display high standards of personal integrity and ethical behaviour in all ICT dealings.
• Lead and manage the NSFAS ICT networks team effectively, ensuring clear communication, skill development, and team productivity.

Stakeholder Management & Relationships

• Participate in after-hours standby rotation as required, responding to critical network incidents within agreed response times.
• Manage assigned network projects and program components, delivering services on time and within budget according to established objectives.

Budget Optimisation

• Optimize the use of network servers and resources to ensure cost-effective and efficient network operations.
• Proactively suggest and implement innovative network solutions that address business and management challenges

Compliance Monitoring and Evaluation

• Maintain comprehensive and accurate documentation of the network environment in alignment with NSFAS standards, reviewed and updated quarterly.

Information and Knowledge Management

• Regularly share relevant industry trends and knowledge with team members and stakeholders through formal and informal channels to enhance skills and drive corrective measures.

Reporting and Accountability

• Prepare accurate ICT data reports for stakeholders and management.

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum requirements :

• NQF level 7 in Computer Science / Information Systems / Information Technology or related.
• 8 Years’ experience in designing, implementing or supporting network environments.
• Extensive with Cisco or HP networking technologies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic experience in Cloud computing
• The ability to be on call and work after hours to support, maintain and configure network and security infrastructure as required.