Network Manager (hands-on)

Network/Systems ManagerMy client is at an exciting time of growth and expansion and looking to bring on board a talented Network/Systems Manager. This person will be responsible for leading managing and organizing the Networking department. Located in the western suburbs of Chicago, my client will offer an excellent compensation package with a hybrid schedule. This is a Direct Hire position. Not a remote job.Manage and monitor IT projects and activities related to the IT Network Systems department in a timely manner Design, implement, and maintain the organization's local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and telephony environments Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and address security risks Monitor network traffic for signs of security breaches and take appropriate action to mitigate threats Meet regularly with senior IT staff, departments and Network Systems staff to define, develop and review goals, initiatives and challenges regarding the Network Systems department Review and maintain data protection and emergency recovery plans Ensure that the networks are operating efficiently, securely, and effectively to meet the needs of the organization's operations Manage the development and documentation of Network Systems policies, procedures, workflows (SLAs) and standardizations Proactively reach out in order to understand and help facilitate all global IT needs and initiatives Will evaluate current network environment and focus on process improvements, managing vendors, and assisting hiring manager with overall network strategyMust have:5+ years in network administration or network engineering roles 3+ years in a leadership or management position In-depth working knowledge on network devices, scalability constraints, and design required. Working knowledge of scripting language to monitor system performance of data center infrastructure/environment. Proven experience with industry standard networking infrastructure including routers, switches, firewalls, etc. is critical Expertise network management, VOIP, security management, and wireless network services. Through understanding of IP Network, including VLANs. Firewalls, switches, routers and other network equipment (Netgear, Meraki, Ruckus, Watchguard, VPN, Load Balancer, Web Application Firewall, SD-WAN, External DNS, Redundancy, Load balancing, Anti-Malware and Cybersecurity concepts, Intrusion detection and prevention Strong understanding of Azure and cloud environments Implementing best practices to keep sights up and running 24/7 5+ years of experience in managing networks for a multi-site (50+) Company Strong leadership skills, able to step in and take charge Strong understanding of network security principles and best practices Experience with network monitoring and management tools Excellent oral/written communications, organizational, teamwork, time management, and interpersonal skills Ability to multi-task in a dynamic, fast-paced environment Demonstrate outstanding level of professionalism, including ability to exercise good judgment, discretion, tact, and diplomacy