Network Engineer (Wireless, LAN, and ISE Specialist)

Network Engineer – Wireless, LAN, and ISE Specialist (Hybrid Contract) Job ID : 780301 Client : State of North Carolina - NC DHHS Location : Picot Drive, Raleigh, NC 27587 Employment Type : 5+ Month Contract Pay Rate : $55 / Hour - $65 / Hour (DOE) The Opportunity : Network Refresh and Infrastructure Security We are seeking a highly specialized Network Engineer to join the NC DHHS team. This critical hybrid contract role is focused on the re-design and refresh of the state's Wireless, LAN, and Cisco ISE infrastructure, alongside vital upgrades to the UPS battery infrastructure across campus closets. If you have deep, hands-on experience in Cisco wireless technologies, Catalyst Center, and Palo Alto firewall administration, you will be instrumental in enhancing the security and reliability of the state's core network services. Primary Responsibilities (What You'll Deliver) You will be responsible for the full lifecycle of major network refresh projects, including design, coordination, installation, and documentation : Core Network Infrastructure Cisco Wireless & LAN : Lead the re-design, implementation, and advanced troubleshooting for both the LAN and wireless network, specializing in Cisco / Meraki products. Cisco ISE Upgrade : Plan and execute the upgrade to Cisco ISE 3.1.0 (Gold Star Release), which includes managing the new license model and valid SSL Certificates on the Virtual ISE appliances. SDA / Catalyst Support : Provide administration and troubleshooting support for Cisco Catalyst Center and Software Defined Access (SDA). Firewall Security : Handle Palo Alto Firewall administration (including Panorama), configuration, and troubleshooting of general firewall and secure communications protocols. Vulnerability Remediation : Perform network infrastructure security vulnerability assessments, research, and remediation. UPS and Equipment Logistics UPS Infrastructure : Plan and execute the replacement of campus closet UPS batteries as needed. Monitoring Integration : Configure Network UPS Units using network adapter cards, add the necessary UPS VLANs, and integrate all units into monitoring systems. Procurement & Installation : Work closely with business units to obtain price quotes, coordinate equipment orders, and oversee the physical installation and configuration. Documentation & Project Management Attend weekly meetings, work with other IT teams on implementation projects, and provide reports, summaries, and comprehensive systems documentation as needed. Utilize ServiceNow for ticketing, change, and configuration management. Basic Qualifications (Must-Haves) Extensive experience with Cisco / Meraki wireless products (design, implementation, troubleshooting). Extensive experience with Cisco LAN products (methodologies, implementation, and troubleshooting). Extensive experience with Cisco ISE administration, implementation, support, and troubleshooting. Hands-on experience with Palo Alto Firewall administration, configuration, and troubleshooting (including Panorama). Experience with Cisco Catalyst Center administration, support, and troubleshooting. Experience with rack-based UPS battery implementation, monitoring, and alerting. Experience with ServiceNow ticketing, change, and configuration management modules. Strong technical documentation, vendor / client communication, and team interaction skills. Candidate must be local to Raleigh, NC (27587) and able to come onsite as needed (This is a hybrid position). Compensation & Logistics Job Duration : 5+ Month Contract Work Arrangement : Hybrid (Onsite as needed at Picot Drive, Raleigh, NC). If you are an expert-level Network Engineer ready to tackle a significant infrastructure refresh project for a critical state agency, apply now!