Network Engineer

Overview Join to apply for the Network Engineer role at AARNet (Australia's Academic and Research Network) . AARNet is Australia’s National Research and Education Network (NREN). We connect over one million users across research and education institutions and are committed to innovating network infrastructure and services. The role is in the operations group, focusing on implementing and maintaining AARNet’s IP, MPLS, switched and optical networks, and assisting with the delivery of new services. The position involves fault diagnostics and restoration, planned works management, and the support and maintenance of the AARNet Network. Some service commissioning and spares management are also required. The role requires an independent, self-sufficient worker who can think on their feet and solve problems as they arise. The candidate will be on call from time to time and may need to travel around Australia with limited notice. Note: This description reflects current expectations and may be updated as needed. Responsibilities Fault Diagnostics & Service Restoration: diagnose complex network faults and instigate solutions; act as the front line to diagnose and restore services in fault conditions across dark fibre, CWDM/DWDM multiplexers, Metro Ethernet or customer Ethernet equipment, long-haul DWDM transmission, and core IP routers. Collaborate with customers, AARNet staff, and third parties to identify fault causes and work toward resolution. Field replace suspect or faulty hardware components (power supplies, fans, disks, line cards, optics, units or chassis). Conduct post-fault analysis and produce reports to improve future resilience and faster resolution. Ensure network availability and performance to meet Service Level Agreements; liaise with external suppliers and partners on faults; install software updates; patch new services and decommission old services. Documentation: complete internal service documentation and update relevant systems; document network installations, configurations, related data and test results. Hardware Management: upgrade hardware; ensure spare hardware availability; manage order, replacement and returns of faulty hardware under warranty or service contracts; attend data centres, remote sites and customer premises to install or replace equipment; decommission old hardware. Operate and Maintain the Network: monitor and measure network performance; perform hardware and software updates and upgrades; support and advise customers, NOC, and internal staff on faults, design, planning and implementation. Service Testing & Commissioning: install, commission and test new services; configure network switches, routers and other devices; prepare and execute testing and commissioning plans and procedures. Expertise, Experience & Qualifications Degree in Engineering/Telecommunications or related field, or relevant industry experience. At least 5 years of experience operating, managing and maintaining a carrier-grade network at a national or regional level. Comprehensive knowledge of network switching, routing and transmission technologies; experience with dynamic routing protocols such as BGP. Experience with optical fibre networks; experience detecting and mitigating DDOS attacks. Experience with test equipment such as OTDRs and power meters is desirable; strong operational processes and documentation practices (electronic communications, ticket systems, planned installations and maintenance). Experience with CWDM and DWDM passive and active systems; prior telecommunications network technician experience is desirable. Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident; Full Australian Driver’s Licence; First Aid or Remote First Aid certificate desirable. Important Skills: strong written and verbal communication; logical fault finding and timely service restoration; adaptability across environments and unexpected faults; ability to work autonomously and with the network support team. Conditions of Employment AARNet is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. We offer competitive remuneration and a range of benefits, including: 17% superannuation Flexible work options Options to purchase additional annual leave Paid maternity, adoption and paternity leave Family & Domestic Violence Leave; leave for the death of a child or a close family member; natural disaster leave Strong Equal Opportunity focus; sector-leading Social Responsibility and Ethics; opportunities to grow with leading-edge technologies Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Full-time Job function Information Technology Industries Telecommunications #J-18808-Ljbffr