01/01/2010 01511

NETWORK SPECIALIST 1

DEFINITION: This is technical work in network support or administration.

An employee in this job performs a full range of information technology user support services in a network environment; assists a higher level network specialist in the administration of networks in the areas of network support, server support, or network managed services; or serves as a Local Area Network (LAN) administrator for networks of limited size and complexity. Work at this level of the series is distinguished from the Information Technology Technician job by the responsibility for analyzing and resolving interconnectivity and other problems that occur in a network. User support duties include receiving calls for assistance, documenting problems, and diagnosing, troubleshooting, and resolving hardware, software, and network problems. Network support functions include assisting higher level specialists in installing and testing network hardware, software, and network operating systems on infrastructure devices such as routers and switches; monitoring and identifying network systems malfunctions and coordinating, scheduling, or implementing resolutions to hardware and software problems; configuring and managing routers, switches, and other hardware and software components; configuring and managing cabling systems; and developing, implementing, and maintaining network security mechanisms for network access. Server support functions include establishing and maintaining the user environment; maintaining file recovery and backup systems; and assisting higher level specialists in installing and testing network hardware and software, including the network operating system, and configuring and managing servers. Network managed services functions include providing support in the administration of agency wide applications and services such as systems management, antivirus, and host intrusion protection. Work may also include the full range of LAN administration responsibilities for networks of limited size and complexity that support organizations with easily understood systems and business requirements and relatively few applications and systems processes. Work may also involve performing work in a centralized support capacity providing statewide technical assistance on desktop hardware and software, and establishing and implementing department-wide hardware and software installation standards. Work may include lead work responsibilities over Information Technology Technicians. Work is assigned by a technical or administrative supervisor and is reviewed through the operational performance of the networks and support services being provided. Work is performed independently using initiative and judgment to resolve user problems in the use of information technology.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Diagnoses system hardware and software failures, and recommends or performs minor repairs and adjustments or refers to the appropriate service personnel for resolution.

Provides user support services and technical advice to network users regarding network resources.

Conducts formal classroom training and informal training for users or technical staff.

Performs work in a centralized support capacity providing statewide technical assistance on desktop hardware and software, and establishes and implements department-wide hardware and software installation standards.

Utilizes various types of tools and techniques to test, verify, troubleshoot, and resolve network problems.

Monitors network performance through the use of various network management tools.

Interprets information provided by network management tools in the diagnosis and troubleshooting of information technology hardware, software, and connectivity problems.

Implements network optimization procedures provided by higher level network specialists.

Responds to network alerts, and diagnoses, troubleshoots, and resolves network performance problems and escalates problems when required.

Participates in designing network configurations including all hardware and software necessary for network operation and functionality and assists in preparing design plans and specifications for acquisition and implementation.

Assists in implementing, controlling, and monitoring network security measures.

Participates in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of switches, routers, or other communications hardware and their associated software to support connectivity with other networks, platforms, and protocols.

Installs, tests, and maintains network cabling found in a network environment.

Installs network hardware, software, and peripheral components according to design or installation specifications and ensures operability.

Establishes and maintains the user environment by creating individual and group accounts and providing access to network resources such as shared files and printers.

Sets up and regulates shared directories and applies permissions.

Participates in the installation or updates of software such as operating systems, communications, utility, and other network software and tests to verify correct system operation.

Maintains file recovery and backup systems for enterprise systems.

Configures and manages network printers and print servers.

Plans, designs, scripts, tests, and places into production tools and utilities for use on the network.

Assists in maintaining and administering agency wide network managed services such as systems management, operations management, antivirus, and host intrusion detection.

Reviews technical manuals and other literature, attends seminars, conferences, and training classes to maintain currency with new information services, products, and IT developments.

Provides technical assistance in the development of contract specifications.

Monitors contractor performance in providing services and equipment in accordance with specifications.

Conducts feasibility and cost comparison studies and makes recommendations based on the findings.

Updates and makes revisions to the disaster recovery and continuity of government plans.

Participates in the design, modification, and maintenance of voice and data telecommunications systems.

Installs and configures videoconferencing systems within established instructions and provides maintenance and operations support.

Functions as a lead worker for limited technical work by assigning and reviewing work, training employees, and performing quality control functions for the work.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles of network communications.

Knowledge of industry standards and protocols, concepts, and best practices of network communications systems.

Knowledge of the functions and capabilities of network hardware and software in a network environment.

Knowledge of the processes and procedures involved in the installation and configuration of network hardware and software in a network environment.

Knowledge of the process of installing and configuring hardware and software on desktop computers and peripherals.

Knowledge of troubleshooting techniques in a network environment.

Knowledge of the principles of network security.

Knowledge of physical cabling and wiring specifications.

Ability to read and interpret technical computer manuals, procedures, and specifications.

Ability to communicate effectively orally.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year as an Information Technology Trainee or Information Technology Technician;

                                                                                                                                                                          or

Successful completion of the Information Technology Intern – Bachelor Program;

                                                                                                                                                                          or

One year of experience providing information technology support services including hardware and software installation, operation, and maintenance within a network environment, and an associate's degree in any information technology field;

                                                                                                                                                                          or

Three years of experience providing information technology support services including hardware and software installation, operation, and maintenance within a network environment;

                                                                                                                                                                          or

An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes one year of experience providing information technology support services including hardware and software installation, operation, and maintenance within a network environment.