Senior Network Analyst

Senior Network Analyst (6 month contract)Location: Edmonton, ABStaffing Placement OpportunityRole Description:As a Senior Network Specialist, you will be responsible for implementing and managing advanced network solutions using HPE Aruba and ClearPass technologies. This role serves as the primary resource for various network architecture projects, ensuring robust security, connectivity, and resiliency. The successful candidate will possess senior-level experience in network architecture, design, and analysis. This role will support the technology strategy by enhancing network efficiency and reliability, laying the foundation for cloud services and applications.Key Responsibilities:a) Network Infrastructure Deployment: Deploy, configure, and maintain network hardware and software components such as routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers.b) Security Implementation: Implement security measures to protect network systems against unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyber threats, including firewall configuration, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and VPNs.c) Performance Optimization: Monitor and optimize network performance, throughput, and reliability, addressing performance bottlenecks and network congestion issues.d) Vendor and Third-Party Coordination: Actively engage in hands-on network tasks while coordinating with vendors and third-party service providers. Manage vendor relationships to ensure compliance and facilitate the integration of new technologies. This includes conducting regular performance evaluations and recommending improvements to enhance overall network efficiency and reliability.e) Capacity Management: Assess network capacity requirements and plan for scalability by adding or upgrading network components to meet growth and changing business demands.f) Troubleshooting and Issue Resolution: Diagnose and resolve network problems, identify root causes, and implement solutions to minimize downtime and disruptions.g) Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity: Develop and maintain disaster recovery plans and procedures to ensure business continuity in case of network failures or disasters.h) Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate documentation of network configurations, topologies, and procedures, and prepare regular reports on network performance, security incidents, and compliance.i) Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including infrastructure administrators, developers, and security professionals, to ensure seamless integration of network infrastructure with other IT systems and applications.j) Training and Knowledge Sharing: Provide training and guidance to IT staff and end users on network technologies, best practices, and security awareness to promote effective use and secure operation of network resources.Key Qualifications:a) Experience:Minimum of 5+ years in an enterprise environment as a Senior Network Administrator or Network Engineer with experience in architecture, deployment, and Level-3 troubleshooting.Preferably 7+ years of proven experience in a network engineering role with in-depth knowledge of designing and architecting networks.b) Technical Expertise: Demonstrated experience with HPE Aruba CX 6300s/8300s series.Demonstrated experience with Aruba Central Management.Experience with wireless deployment and configuration, with a preference for Aruba AP experience.c) Certifications: One or more relevant certifications demonstrating expertise and proficiency in network technologies, such as: ACSX (Aruba Certified Switching Expert)ACSP (Aruba Certified Switching Professional)ACSA (Aruba Certified Switching Associate)CCNP or CCIE (Cisco)ACCP (Aruba Certified ClearPass Professional)ACMX (Aruba Certified Mobility Expert)ACDP (Aruba Certified Design Professional)CWNP (Certified Wireless Network Professional)CompTIA Network+JNCIA or JNCIP (Juniper)Azure Solutions Architect Expertd) Specialized Knowledge: Proficient in HPE Aruba Networking ClearPass deployment, integration, TACACS, Onboard, and OnGuard policy features or comparable solutions.Experience with Fortinet FortiGate NGFW products in an enterprise environment, with a preference for senior-level hands-on knowledge.Expertise in designing, implementing, and managing complex network infrastructures.Proficient in a variety of network technologies, protocols, and topologies.e) Security and Virtualization: Experience implementing network security measures and best practices.Proficient in routing and switching protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF, VLANs, MPLS).Experience with network security technologies (e.g., firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS).Experience with network virtualization and software-defined networking (SDN).Proficient in cloud networking and integration with public cloud platforms, with a preference for Azure ExpressRoute experience.f) Tools and Communication: Experience with network monitoring and management tools (e.g., SNMP, NetFlow, Wireshark).Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.Ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and adapt to changing business requirements and technologies.Note: this is an opportunity with a Microserve client