Senior Network Engineer
π Job Overview
- Job Title: Senior Network Engineer
- Company: AFL Telecommunications
- Location: Duncan, SC, United States
- Job Type: Full-Time, Hybrid
- Category: Network Infrastructure & Security
- Date Posted: August 1, 2025
- Experience Level: 10+ years
- Remote Status: On-site with hybrid options
π Role Summary
- Key Responsibilities: Plan, implement, and maintain network infrastructure, ensuring high performance, security, and availability. Collaborate with stakeholders to define project goals, manage risk, and ensure compliance. Lead or support infrastructure-focused projects and provide technical guidance to junior staff.
- Key Skills: Network infrastructure, Fortinet firewalls, Layer 3 routing, wireless technologies, security protocols, troubleshooting, network monitoring, disaster recovery, and business continuity.
π Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong blend of technical expertise and project management skills, with a focus on Fortinet solutions and advanced networking concepts.
π» Primary Responsibilities
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Project-Based Responsibilities:
- Plan and implement hardware, software, and service installations aligned with architectural guidelines and project plans.
- Lead or support infrastructure-focused projects from planning through execution.
- Draft procedures and installation instructions for analysts and administrators.
- Ensure security protocols are integrated into infrastructure planning and execution.
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Day-to-Day Operational Duties:
- Maintain accurate inventory and configuration documentation of network and system assets.
- Monitor and update system software and hardware to maintain compliance and performance.
- Apply security and firmware patches following change management protocols.
- Maintain and optimize Fortinet-based firewall, switch, and wireless infrastructure.
- Manage and troubleshoot Layer 3 routing configurations and performance.
- Monitor logs, system performance, and availability across the network.
- Respond to and resolve incidents and support escalations (Tier 3).
- Define, maintain, and test disaster recovery and business continuity procedures.
- Manage network backups.
π Enhancement Note: This role involves a mix of strategic project work and day-to-day operational tasks, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to balance multiple priorities.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education: Associate's degree required; Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field preferred.
Experience: 8+ years of relevant networking experience, with at least 3 years in LAN/WAN/WLAN design and implementation.
Required Skills:
- Deep technical experience with Fortinet security and networking solutions, including FortiGate firewalls, FortiSwitch, and FortiAP.
- Advanced understanding of Layer 3 networking concepts, including dynamic and static routing, VLANs, subnetting, and inter-VLAN routing.
- Strong command of network management and security best practices.
- Proven ability to work with routing protocols, firewalls, switches, access points, and network monitoring tools.
- Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, IEEE 802.11), RF optimization, PoE, and wireless security threats and mitigations.
- Ability to work some evening and weekends as needed.
- Ability to travel approximately 25% or less.
Certifications (Preferred but not required):
- Fortinet NSE certifications (e.g., NSE 4 or higher)
- Cisco CCNA/CCNP
- CompTIA Network+/Security+
Personal Qualities:
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
- Effective verbal and written communication.
- Ability to clearly explain technical concepts to non-technical users.
- Strong sense of ownership, accountability, and initiative.
- Team player with a willingness to mentor junior staff.
π Web Portfolio & Project Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- Demonstrate experience in network infrastructure design, implementation, and management.
- Showcase projects involving Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and wireless technologies.
- Highlight problem-solving skills and incident resolution examples.
Technical Documentation:
- Provide documentation of network diagrams, configuration files, and project plans.
- Include network monitoring and performance optimization case studies.
- Demonstrate understanding of security protocols and risk management strategies.
π Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role should focus on network infrastructure projects, Fortinet solutions, and Layer 3 routing case studies, with an emphasis on performance optimization and security.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 per year (based on regional market data for senior network engineering roles in South Carolina)
Benefits:
- Hybrid in-office schedule for qualifying employees
- Flexible time off policy
- 401K company match (up to 4% - dollar for dollar)
- Professional development, training, and tuition reimbursement programs
- Excellent medical, dental, vision, and life insurance policy options
- Opportunities for career advancement with an industry-leading company!
Working Hours: Full-time, with some evening and weekend work as needed. Approximately 25% travel required.
π Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on regional market data for senior network engineering roles, with adjustments for cost of living in South Carolina.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Telecommunications and manufacturing
Company Size: Approximately 9,000 associates worldwide
Founded: 1984
Team Structure:
- The IT organization consists of multiple teams, including network infrastructure, security, and operations.
- The Senior Network Engineer will report directly to the IT Director and work closely with other IT teams and stakeholders.
- The role involves cross-functional collaboration with various departments, such as engineering, operations, and sales.
Development Methodology:
- AFL follows a structured project management approach for infrastructure projects.
- The company emphasizes change management protocols, risk assessment, and compliance.
- Network infrastructure is maintained and optimized using industry-standard tools and best practices.
Company Website: AFL Telecommunications
π Enhancement Note: AFL Telecommunications is a well-established company in the telecommunications industry, with a focus on manufacturing fiber optic cable, connectivity, and accessories. The company values professional development and growth, offering various benefits and opportunities for career advancement.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Network Engineering Career Level: Senior Network Engineer roles involve strategic decision-making, project leadership, and technical mentoring. Responsibilities include defining project goals, managing risk, and ensuring compliance while maintaining high-performance connectivity.
Reporting Structure: The Senior Network Engineer reports directly to the IT Director and works closely with other IT teams and stakeholders. The role involves technical leadership and collaboration with junior staff and other IT professionals.
Technical Impact: This role has a significant impact on network infrastructure design, implementation, and maintenance. Decisions made by the Senior Network Engineer directly influence network performance, security, and availability, affecting the entire organization.
Growth Opportunities:
- Technical Growth: Expand expertise in Fortinet solutions, emerging network technologies, and advanced networking concepts.
- Leadership Development: Develop leadership skills through mentoring junior staff and leading infrastructure projects.
- Architecture Decisions: Contribute to strategic architecture decisions, influencing the company's network infrastructure roadmap.
π Enhancement Note: The Senior Network Engineer role at AFL Telecommunications offers opportunities for technical growth, leadership development, and strategic influence, with a focus on Fortinet solutions and advanced networking concepts.
π Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid, with an emphasis on in-office collaboration and teamwork
Office Location(s): Duncan, SC, United States
Workspace Context:
- The Duncan office features collaborative workspaces, multiple monitors, and network testing devices.
- The hybrid work arrangement encourages both in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.
- The work environment fosters continuous learning and knowledge sharing among network engineering professionals.
Work Schedule: Full-time, with some evening and weekend work as needed. Approximately 25% travel required.
π Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment at AFL Telecommunications encourages both in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility, with a focus on continuous learning and knowledge sharing among network engineering professionals.
π Application & Technical Interview Process
Interview Process:
- Technical Assessment: Demonstrate expertise in Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and network infrastructure management. Solve technical challenges related to network design, configuration, and troubleshooting.
- Project Discussion: Discuss network infrastructure projects, highlighting your role in planning, implementation, and maintenance. Explain how you ensured high performance, security, and availability.
- Stakeholder Interaction: Engage in a conversation with IT stakeholders to assess your communication skills and cultural fit within the organization.
- Final Evaluation: Evaluate your understanding of network infrastructure best practices, risk management, and project leadership skills.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Highlight network infrastructure projects that demonstrate your expertise in Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and wireless technologies.
- Include case studies that showcase your problem-solving skills and incident resolution capabilities.
- Emphasize your ability to work with stakeholders, manage risk, and ensure compliance in network infrastructure projects.
Technical Challenge Preparation:
- Brush up on your Fortinet solutions knowledge, focusing on FortiGate firewalls, FortiSwitch, and FortiAP.
- Review Layer 3 networking concepts, including dynamic and static routing, VLANs, subnetting, and inter-VLAN routing.
- Practice network troubleshooting and problem-solving exercises to enhance your analytical and critical thinking skills.
ATS Keywords: (Organized by category)
- Network Infrastructure: Network design, network management, network security, network performance, network availability, network monitoring, network troubleshooting, network optimization, network architecture, network infrastructure, network engineering, network administrator, network analyst, network analyst, network architect, network engineer, network specialist, network consultant, network analyst, network engineer, network administrator, network architect, network engineer, network specialist, network consultant
- Fortinet Solutions: FortiGate, FortiSwitch, FortiAP, Fortinet NSE, Fortinet certification, Fortinet training, Fortinet solutions, Fortinet security, Fortinet networking, Fortinet firewall, Fortinet switch, Fortinet access point, Fortinet wireless, Fortinet security, Fortinet networking, Fortinet firewall, Fortinet switch, Fortinet access point, Fortinet wireless
- Layer 3 Networking: Layer 3, dynamic routing, static routing, VLAN, subnetting, inter-VLAN routing, routing protocol, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, network protocol, TCP/IP, network routing, network switching, network protocol, network routing, network switching, network protocol, network routing, network switching, network protocol
- Network Security: Network security, network firewall, network access control, network intrusion prevention, network intrusion detection, network security best practices, network security protocols, network security management, network security compliance, network security risk management, network security incident response, network security incident management, network security policy, network security standards, network security guidelines, network security regulations, network security compliance, network security risk management, network security incident response, network security incident management, network security policy, network security standards, network security guidelines, network security regulations
- Soft Skills: Problem-solving, troubleshooting, communication, teamwork, leadership, mentoring, project management, risk management, stakeholder management, change management, incident management, business continuity, disaster recovery, network documentation, network configuration, network deployment, network maintenance, network support, network administration, network analyst, network engineer, network architect, network specialist, network consultant
π Enhancement Note: The interview process for the Senior Network Engineer role at AFL Telecommunications focuses on technical expertise in Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and network infrastructure management, as well as strong communication skills and cultural fit within the organization.
π Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure
Network Infrastructure Technologies:
- Fortinet solutions (FortiGate, FortiSwitch, FortiAP)
- Layer 3 routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP)
- Network management and monitoring tools (SolarWinds, Nagios, Zabbix)
- Network security tools (Fortinet FortiManager, Fortinet FortiAnalyzer, Palo Alto Networks, Cisco ASA)
- Wireless technologies (IEEE 802.11, Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 4)
- Network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, ICMP, ARP, DHCP, DNS, NAT, VPN)
Server & Database Technologies:
- Virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V, KVM)
- Server operating systems (Windows Server, Linux, macOS)
- Database management systems (Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle)
- Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
Development & DevOps Tools:
- Version control systems (Git, SVN, Mercurial)
- Continuous integration/continuous deployment (Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, CircleCI)
- Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, Ansible, Puppet)
- Containerization (Docker, Kubernetes, Amazon ECS)
- Cloud-based development environments (AWS Cloud9, Azure DevTools, Google Cloud Shell)
π Enhancement Note: The technology stack for the Senior Network Engineer role at AFL Telecommunications focuses on Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and network infrastructure management, with an emphasis on network security, monitoring, and optimization.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Network Engineering Values:
- Expertise: Demonstrate deep technical knowledge in Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and network infrastructure management.
- Performance: Maintain high-performance connectivity across all network environments, ensuring optimal resource utilization and minimal downtime.
- Security: Implement and maintain robust network security protocols, protecting the organization's assets and data from internal and external threats.
- Collaboration: Work effectively with stakeholders, IT teams, and other departments to define project goals, manage risk, and ensure compliance.
- Continuous Learning: Stay up-to-date with emerging network technologies, best practices, and industry trends.
Collaboration Style:
- Cross-Functional Integration: Collaborate with various departments, including engineering, operations, and sales, to define project goals, manage risk, and ensure compliance.
- Code Review Culture: Encourage knowledge sharing and continuous learning through code reviews, technical mentoring, and peer programming.
- Knowledge Sharing: Foster a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing, with an emphasis on mentoring junior staff and developing technical skills.
π Enhancement Note: The network engineering team at AFL Telecommunications values expertise, performance, security, collaboration, and continuous learning, with a focus on Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and network infrastructure management.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Technical Challenges:
- Fortinet Solutions: Stay current with the latest Fortinet product releases, security updates, and best practices.
- Layer 3 Routing: Develop advanced expertise in dynamic and static routing protocols, VLANs, subnetting, and inter-VLAN routing.
- Network Performance Optimization: Identify and address network bottlenecks, optimize resource utilization, and improve overall network performance.
- Wireless Network Security: Stay informed about emerging wireless security threats and best practices for mitigating risks in wireless networks.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Technical Skill Development: Pursue advanced certifications in Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and network security, such as Fortinet NSE 7, Cisco CCNP, or CCIE.
- Emerging Technologies: Explore and gain expertise in emerging network technologies, such as 5G, IoT, and network function virtualization (NFV).
- Leadership Development: Develop leadership skills through mentoring junior staff, leading infrastructure projects, and contributing to strategic architecture decisions.
π Enhancement Note: The technical challenges and growth opportunities for the Senior Network Engineer role at AFL Telecommunications focus on Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, network performance optimization, and wireless network security, with an emphasis on continuous learning and skill development.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Technical Questions:
- Fortinet Solutions: Describe your experience with FortiGate firewalls, FortiSwitch, and FortiAP. Explain how you have optimized their performance and security in network infrastructure projects.
- Layer 3 Routing: Discuss your expertise in dynamic and static routing protocols, VLANs, subnetting, and inter-VLAN routing. Provide examples of network design and configuration scenarios you have encountered.
- Network Security: Explain your approach to network security, including risk management, incident response, and compliance. Describe your experience with network security tools and best practices.
Company & Culture Questions:
- AFL Telecommunications: Research the company's history, industry, and culture. Prepare questions to demonstrate your understanding of the organization and its network infrastructure needs.
- Network Engineering Team: Learn about the network engineering team's structure, dynamics, and collaboration with other departments. Prepare questions to assess your fit within the team and organization.
- Network Infrastructure Projects: Familiarize yourself with AFL's network infrastructure projects, including recent initiatives, challenges, and successes. Prepare questions to discuss your role in driving the organization's network infrastructure goals.
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Network Infrastructure Projects: Highlight your experience in network infrastructure design, implementation, and maintenance. Emphasize your expertise in Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and wireless technologies.
- Case Studies: Present case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills, incident resolution capabilities, and project leadership.
- Technical Deep Dive: Prepare a technical deep dive into a specific network infrastructure challenge you have faced, explaining your approach, the tools you used, and the outcome of your efforts.
π Enhancement Note: The interview preparation for the Senior Network Engineer role at AFL Telecommunications focuses on technical expertise in Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and network security, as well as an understanding of the organization's network infrastructure projects and team dynamics.
π Application Steps
To apply for this Senior Network Engineer position at AFL Telecommunications:
- Submit your application through the AFL Telecommunications careers page.
- Customize your resume to highlight your experience in network infrastructure, Fortinet solutions, and Layer 3 routing.
- Prepare a portfolio showcasing your network infrastructure projects, with an emphasis on Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and wireless technologies.
- Research AFL Telecommunications, its network infrastructure projects, and team dynamics to prepare informed questions and demonstrate your understanding of the organization.
- Practice technical interview questions and case studies related to Fortinet solutions, Layer 3 routing, and network security to enhance your confidence and preparedness.
β οΈ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions about the Senior Network Engineer role at AFL Telecommunications. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.
Application Requirements
Candidates should have an Associate's degree, with a preference for a Bachelor's degree in a related field, and at least 8 years of relevant networking experience. Deep technical experience with Fortinet solutions and advanced understanding of Layer 3 networking concepts are essential.