Network and Systems Engineer

Overview

Network and Systems Engineer plays a critical role in the design, implementation, maintenance, and support of the university’s network and server infrastructure.  As part of a collaborative team, the engineer ensures high availability, performance, and
integrity of critical IT services that support the academic, research, and administrative functions of the institution. This position will utilize your skill sets to create, manage, and track a structured training and feedback plan for network and systems admins with the IT department. The Network and Systems engineer will possess a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and a commitment to providing exceptional service in a dynamic higher education environment.

About MBU

Mary Baldwin University is a private university enrolling nearly 1,800 students at the undergraduate and graduate levels on campuses in Staunton and Fishersville, Virginia, and online. Since 1842, this intimate learning environment has allowed students to cultivate strong connections with faculty, staff, and peers. With a rich
history of access and innovation, MBU prepares the diverse leaders of the future in fields ranging from health sciences, creativity and culture, business and technology, and education and society. The university is organized into three academic colleges: the Gold College of Arts and Sciences, the Murphy Deming College of Health Sciences, and the Palmer College of Professional Studies.

One of the Most Diverse Campuses in the Nation

With 60 percent of undergraduate residential students being Pell-eligible, 50 percent students of color, and 40 percent first generation, Mary Baldwin is among the most diverse campuses in the country. MBU fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community, where students feel a strong sense of belonging, acceptance, support, and empowerment. 

Primary Duties 

Network Infrastructure:

• Design, configure, implement, and maintain network hardware (routers, switches, firewalls, wireless access points, virtualization) from various vendors.
• Monitor network performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions to optimize traffic flow and ensure network stability.
• Manage and troubleshoot network protocols and services including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, VPNs, etc.
• Implement and maintain network security measures, including firewall rules, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and access control lists.
• Oversee and manage the university’s wireless infrastructure, ensuring robust and secure connectivity across campus.
• Develop and maintain network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and procedures.

Server and Systems Infrastructure:

• Administer, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows and Linux server operating systems.
• Manage virtualization platforms including host configuration, VM deployment, and resource management.
• Implement and manage storage solutions (e.g., SAN, NAS) and backup/recovery systems.
• Administer and support directory services (e.g., Active Directory, LDAP) and associated group policies.
• Manage and maintain email systems and other collaboration tools.
• Implement and maintain system security best practices, including patching, vulnerability management, and access controls.
• Monitor server performance, capacity, and availability, and proactively address potential issues.
• Develop and maintain system documentation, including configurations procedures, and troubleshooting guides.

General Responsibilities

• Work alongside other department personnel to help implement cybersecurity policies and procedures in accordance with institutional, state, and federal regulations (e.g., FERPA, HIPAA, GLBA).
• Participate in risk assessments, vulnerability scanning, and incident response.
• Collaborate with other IT staff, departments, and vendors to ensure seamless integration and support of IT services.
• Research, evaluate, and recommend new technologies and solutions to enhance the university’s IT infrastructure.
• Provide Tier 2 support and collaborate with help desk personnel to resolve escalated issues.
• Participate in IT projects from planning to implementation, ensuring adherence to timelines and budget.
• Stay current with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in networking and systems administration.
• Adhere to all university IT policies, procedures, and security guidelines.

Qualifications

Required:

• Associate’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in network and systems administration, preferably in a higher education or large enterprise environment.
• Proven experience with the configuration and troubleshooting of enterprise-level network hardware.
• Solid understanding of networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, VPNs, routing protocols).
• Experience with Windows Server administration (Active Directory, Group Policy, PowerShell).
• Experience with Linux server administration.
• Experience with virtualization technologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• BS or BA degree in a related field.
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Server+, MCSA, MCSE, VMware VCP).
• Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash).
• Familiarity with IT service management (ITSM) frameworks (e.g., ITIL).
• Experience with identity management systems.
• Experience with enterprise monitoring tools.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Ability to lift and move computer equipment (up to 50 lbs.).
• Ability to work in server rooms and data centers, which may include exposure to loud noise and fluctuating temperatures.
• Occasional evenings, weekends, and on-call work may be required to support critical systems and projects.
• This position is an on-premises position located in Staunton, VA

Benefits and Other Information:

The university offers excellent comprehensive benefits which include paid vacation and sick leave,  in addition to 15+ paid holidays a year and affordable health insurance. We care about the overall wellbeing of our employees and offer a tuition benefit which provides tuition discounts for faculty/staff, children, and spouses on MBU courses.

To Apply

Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Mike Dunaway, Sr.
Director of Information Technology, at mdunaway@marybaldwin.edu.