Network Support Specialist II

The NWESD aspires to be a racially and culturally inclusive staff that reflects the diversity of those we serve. We believe this strengthens our organization, stimulates creativity, promotes the exchange of ideas, and enriches staff engagement.

Summary:

The Network Support Specialist II is responsible for providing on-site network support for K-12 schools using Windows, Linux/Unix, Google Chrome Operating Systems. Installs, maintains, and troubleshoots Microsoft Intune, Active Directory, email, file/print/application servers, proxy server, firewalls, WEB servers, network electronics and database servers. Configures and maintains cloud-based environments such as Office 365, and Google Workspace. This position requires travel to school districts within the Northwest ESD 189 service area which includes Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, Island and San Juan counties.

Essential Functions:

Duties listed are intended to provide a summary of the major duties and responsibilities of this position. Employee(s) may not perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional duties not listed, but within the general scope of the position.

• Provides on-site and remote network support for K-12 schools using Microsoft and Google cloud-based technologies.
• Troubleshoots problems in local/wide area network environments. Responds to service requests in a timely manner.
• Configures servers, firewalls, and Internet filters.
• Maintains network user accounts and email accounts for client school district staff and students.
• Develops user procedures for various systems; trains and provides written instructions for all system users.
• Participates as a team member in planning for upgrades and services as well as in the development of goals, policies, and procedures for the future use of Network Systems.
• Attends and participates in technical conferences, seminars and outside user groups to keep abreast of changes in technology.
• Interacts with outside hardware and software vendors for upgrades and services.
• Configures Windows workstations and Google Chrome Devices for use on the Network.
• Resolves user questions regarding difficulties with network services.
• Prepares clear, informative, and timely written reports on activities as well as maintains detailed logs and documentation related to system changes.
• Applies knowledge of TCP/IP, routed networks to troubleshooting network problems and escalate to the K-20 NOC (Network Operations Center) if necessary.
• Provides project management to interface between school district personnel, K-20 program office, UW Engineering/NOC and tail circuit vendors.
• Acts as the primary point of contact for 35 K-12 school districts and other connected institutions within the NWESD service region for data and network problem isolation, escalation and resolution.
• Listens to client concerns, identifies and resolves client technical networking problems in a calm and methodical manner.
• Demonstrates experience/knowledge of internet/intranet applications including SMTP/POP3/IMAP and MS and Google mail systems, DNS, HTTP servers, SNMP, ssh/telnet, and other TCP/IP applications.
• Configures, maintains, and troubleshoots routers, firewalls, and internet filters.
• Monitors K-20 network utilization and assists in projections for future needs.
• Familiarity with MS AD, Intune and Entra as well as Google Workspace Administration.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Knowledge of network operating systems, Windows, Linux, Google, network electronic components and communications cabling infrastructure to support the needs of Information Systems Support Center cooperative members.
• Knowledge and familiarity working within various computer operating environments, including host-based interactive systems, personal computers, and network hardware/software.
• Knowledge and familiarity working with internet/Intranet applications.
• Knowledge of network MDF/IDF design, configuration and management.
• Knowledge of methods and techniques used in developing powershell scripting and batch files related to configurations of network servers and user workstations.
• Human relation and customer service skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex problems in the network environment in a timely and efficient manner.
• Ability to configure, install, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows, Linux and Google Chrome based Workstations and Windows Servers.
• Ability to use various network testing equipment and hand tools.
• Ability to perform routine scripting tasks.
• Ability to effectively organize, prioritize, and coordinate work requests.
• Ability to work well with others to accomplish system objectives and to operate within district policies and decision-making structures, functioning as an effective team member of the Technology Services Department.
• Ability to stay current on changes in technology, recommending and applying changes in a timely manner.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written format. Ability to prepare accurate, clear and concise reports, logs and related documentation of activities.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, school district staff, ISP, state agencies, vendors and the public.

Qualifications:

High school graduate or equivalent, a minimum of a two-year technical degree in Computer Technology or related field, and four years of experience which demonstrates knowledge of the networking environment. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted which provides the skills, knowledge and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position. Computer and network certifications such as CCNA, RHCE, MCSE, CNE, A+, Network+ etc. are desirable though not required. WSP/FBI criminal history background clearance required.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

Work is performed in an office environment, however, approximately 80% of this time is spent physically working at the various school district locations with approximately 20% of the time working at the NWESD district office. Routine travel is required to visit local school districts as well as for workshops and conferences. Sitting for extended periods of time working on a computer is common. Lifts and carries a maximum of 40 pounds. Adequate manual and finger dexterity, hearing, speech, and vision are necessary to perform the essential functions of this position. This position may be telecommute-eligible per Policy 5225.

Hazards: Those present in a normal office environment. Routine travel may pose potential hazards including traveling in inclement weather conditions.

It is the policy of the Northwest Educational Service District No. 189 to not discriminate against any person with regard to age, sex, race, ethnicity, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, homelessness, immigration or citizenship status, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, neurodivergence, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Changes to the position description may be made at the discretion of the employer.