**Job Title: Network Engineer** **6+ month contract** **Location: Worcester, MA - only local candidates need apply** **Overview:** Our client, a leading academic and research institution in Central Massachusetts, is seeking a skilled and self-directed Network Engineer to design, implement, and support complex network infrastructure across its enterprise and academic environments. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical experience in routing and switching, hands-on troubleshooting skills, and the ability to balance project design with operational support in a fast-paced and dynamic setting. **Key Responsibilities:** + Review project requirement documents and design network solutions in accordance with institutional standards and architecture guidelines + Troubleshoot server routing and connectivity issues within a data center environment utilizing EVPN/VXLAN architectures on Juniper QFX and EX platforms + Collaborate with junior engineers in resolving complex application connectivity problems, including analysis of Palo Alto firewall policies and Juniper/Aruba ACL configurations; perform packet capture and network traffic analysis when required + Implement network segmentation using MAC-RADIUS, DHCP policies, VLAN design, and switch/router configuration best practices + Research and evaluate emerging network technologies, providing recommendations on adoption and further exploration based on relevance to the institutional environment + Diagnose and resolve campus-wide routing issues involving BGP routing protocols, switching tables, access control lists, and physical connectivity + React quickly to support urgent requests for newly deployed devices introduced by academic departments, ensuring timely integration within the network **Preferred Technical Skills:** + Deep knowledge of routing and switching protocols (BGP, OSPF, EVPN/VXLAN) + Experience with Juniper (QFX, EX) and Aruba campus switching platforms + Proficiency with Palo Alto firewalls and ACL policy design + Familiarity with network authentication and segmentation technologies (RADIUS, 802.1X, MAC-RADIUS) + Strong packet capture and analysis capability (Wireshark/tcpdump) + Knowledge of data center network design principles **Traits and Responsibilities Typically Handled by Support Staff (Not Primary Duties):** + First-level user technical support (unless escalated or complex) + Cabling, patching, or physical tracing of wiring + Relocating or physically installing equipment (“lift and shift”) + Installation of endpoint devices such as cameras or access points **Qualifications:** + Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent practical experience) + 5+ years of relevant hands-on experience in enterprise or data center networking + Industry certifications (e.g., JNCIP, JNCIE, CCNP/CCIE, PCNSE) are a plus + Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and documentation skills + Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and respond quickly to changing priorities **Why This Role:** You’ll be joining a collaborative IT organization supporting a world-class academic environment, with ample opportunity to drive innovative solutions and influence technical direction. If you enjoy working with modern network technologies to solve complex problems and improve system reliability, we’d love to hear from you. If this is a role that interests you and you’d like to learn more, click apply now and a recruiter will be in touch with you to discuss this great opportunity. We look forward to speaking with you! **About ManpowerGroup, Parent Company of:** **Manpower, Experis, Talent Solutions, and Jefferson Wells** _ManpowerGroup® (NYSE: MAN), the leading global workforce solutions company, helps organizations transform in a fast-changing world of work by sourcing, assessing, developing, and managing the talent that enables them to win. We develop innovative solutions for hundreds of thousands of organizations every year, providing them with skilled talent while finding meaningful, sustainable employment for millions of people across a wide range of industries and skills. Our expert family of brands –_ **_Manpower, Experis, Talent Solutions, and Jefferson Wells_** _–_ creates substantial value for candidates and clients across more than 75 countries and territories and has done so for over 70 years. We are recognized consistently for our diversity - as a best place to work for Women, Inclusion, Equality and Disability and in 2022 ManpowerGroup was named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the 13th year - all confirming our position as the brand of choice for in-demand talent. ManpowerGroup is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in a professional, high quality work environment. 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