Network Administrator

Company DescriptionUniversity Prep Schools is one of Detroit's longest-standing tuition-free public charter school systems, dedicated to delivering quality education and creating opportunities for students to excel academically and in life. Since 2000, the organization has empowered thousands of students and families through its commitment to the 90/90 promise, ensuring at least 90% graduation and college acceptance rates. Comprising three districts—University Preparatory Academy (UPA), University Prep Science & Math (UPSM), and University Prep Art & Design (UPAD)—the schools maintain the highest standards for student achievement and accountability. Focused on post-secondary readiness, University Prep Schools strive to help students realize their full academic potential while fostering lifelong learning skills.Position SummaryThe K–12 Network Administrator is responsible for the design, implementation, security,monitoring, and support of the district’s network infrastructure across all school andadministrative sites. This position ensures reliable, secure, and high-performing wired andwireless connectivity to support instructional technology, online assessments, VoIP systems,security systems, and district operations.The Network Administrator will manage and maintain the district’s Cisco Meraki networkenvironment, including switches, wireless access points, firewalls, and centralized dashboardmanagement.Key ResponsibilitiesNetwork Infrastructure Management● Design, configure, deploy, and maintain district-wide LAN/WAN infrastructure.● Manage and administer Cisco Meraki:MX Security Appliances (firewalls)MS SwitchesMR Wireless Access PointsMeraki Dashboard configuration and monitoring● Monitor network performance, uptime, and bandwidth utilization.● Configure VLANs, routing, QoS, and network segmentation.● Manage site-to-site VPNs and remote access VPN solutions.● Oversee E-Rate eligible network infrastructure components as applicable.Network Security & Compliance● Implement and maintain firewall policies and content filtering systems.● Ensure compliance with:CIPA (Children’s Internet Protection Act)FERPAState cybersecurity requirements● Conduct vulnerability assessments and implement remediation plans.● Manage intrusion detection/prevention systems.● Maintain secure authentication systems (RADIUS, MFA, directory integration).● Participate in cybersecurity incident response and disaster recovery planning.Wireless & Instructional Support● Maintain high-density wireless networks to support 1:1 devices.● Optimize wireless performance for:Online testing platformsStreaming instructional contentClassroom collaboration tools● Conduct site surveys and wireless heat mapping as needed.Systems & Integration● Collaborate with systems administrators on:Active Directory / Entra ID integrationMicrosoft EndpointDHCP/DNS servicesNetwork authentication systems● Support VoIP systems, security cameras, and access control systems.● Maintain network documentation, diagrams, and asset inventory.Monitoring & Troubleshooting● Proactively monitor network health using:Cisco Meraki DashboardNetwork monitoring tools (SNMP, Syslog, etc.)● Troubleshoot connectivity issues across multiple campuses.● Coordinate with Internet Service Providers for circuit management and outages.● Provide Tier 3 network escalation support to Help Desk staff.Project & Leadership Responsibilities● Lead network upgrade projects and infrastructure refresh cycles.● Develop network standards and best practices.● Assist in budgeting and technology planning.● Provide technical guidance to technology staff.● Support after-hours maintenance windows as needed.QualificationsRequired QualificationBachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).Minimum 3–5 years of network administration experience.Minimum 3-5 years of experience working with Microsoft Endpoint Manager (Intune)Demonstrated experience managing Cisco Meraki environments.Strong knowledge of:CP/IP, DNS, DHCPVLAN configuration and routingFirewall configuration and security policiesWireless network designPhysical cabling, including copper and fiber opticsExperience in a multi-site environment (education preferred).Ability to pass background checks required for school district employment.Preferred QualificationsCisco certifications (CCNA, CCNP, Meraki CMSS).Experience in Microsoft Endpoint Manager (Intune)Experience in K–12 education technology environments.Knowledge of E-Rate funding processes.Experience with content filtering platforms (e.g., Meraki, Blocksi).Familiarity with cloud-managed networking environments.Skills & CompetenciesStrong analytical and troubleshooting skills.Excellent documentation practices.Ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical staff.Commitment to supporting instructional technology initiatives.Strong organizational and project management skills.Work Environment Travel between district campuses is required.Occasional evening or weekend work for upgrades or emergency response.Ability to lift and install network equipment as needed