Network Hardware Infrastructure: Responsibilities and Roles for Student Assistants and Professionals
The backbone of any modern organization, especially universities, relies heavily on a robust and well-maintained network infrastructure. This article explores the responsibilities associated with supporting such infrastructure, focusing on roles suitable for student assistants and detailing the broader responsibilities of infrastructure specialists at different levels. This structured overview provides insights into the tasks, qualifications, and career progression within network infrastructure support.
Introduction
In today's digital age, a reliable network is essential for any organization, and universities are no exception. Network infrastructure ensures seamless communication, data transfer, and access to resources for students, faculty, and staff. Maintaining this complex system requires a dedicated team of professionals and, often, the assistance of student workers. This article delves into the roles and responsibilities of those involved in network hardware infrastructure support, from student assistants to senior specialists.
Student Assistant Responsibilities
Student assistants play a crucial role in supporting the network infrastructure, often working under the guidance of experienced professionals. Their responsibilities can vary, but generally include:
Installation and Maintenance of Data Network Equipment
Student assistants often assist with the physical installation and maintenance of network devices. This includes tasks such as:
- Installing network cards in computers.
- Connecting network cables to devices.
- Replacing faulty network components.
- Assisting with the setup of new network hardware.
Data Wiring and Cabling
A significant portion of a student assistant's work may involve installing and repairing data wiring and cables. This includes:
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- Running new network cables through buildings.
- Terminating cables with connectors.
- Testing cables for connectivity.
- Repairing damaged cables or connectors.
General Support Tasks
Beyond the specific tasks mentioned above, student assistants may also be involved in:
- Assisting with inventory management of network equipment.
- Updating documentation related to network infrastructure.
- Providing basic troubleshooting support to end-users.
- Monitoring network performance and reporting issues.
Student assistants are expected to function with considerable independence and apply appropriate policies and procedures within the assigned area of responsibility, receiving minimal supervision from a designated supervisor. Much of the work is self-initiated.
Infrastructure Specialist Roles
Within Student Affairs Technology, there are typically several levels of Infrastructure Specialists, each with increasing responsibilities and required expertise. These roles include Infrastructure Specialist Associate, Infrastructure Specialist, and Senior Infrastructure Specialist.
Student Affairs Technology serves as the IT department for a variety of Student Affairs units on the campus to provide better efficiency, broader support, and operational resiliency, as well as create richer employment environment for the IT staff.
Infrastructure Specialist Associate
This is often an entry-level position for individuals with some IT experience. Key responsibilities include:
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- Hardware, Software, and Systems Support: Installation and configuration of workstations, mobile devices, and software. Maintaining patching, security, and other endpoint management of workstations and servers. Assisting with the maintenance of administrative infrastructure, including file, print, web, database servers, and specialized vendor applications. Serving as a resource for major software version upgrades and replacing outdated technologies with new and current technologies.
- End-User Support: Providing assistance to help desk operations by providing application and desktop support to customers. Working within defined policies and procedures to solve user or system problems, including those that require solutions with originality and/or ingenuity. Identifying problems to be solved, and escalating appropriately.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Two (2) years of work experience in IT-related functions such as hardware/software support, programming, network design, network engineering, IT systems integration, or closely related field.
- College coursework which includes Information Technology (IT), IT Management, Programming, IT systems, or a closely related discipline may be substituted as follows: 30 semester hours equals one (1) year, Associate’s Degree (60 semester hours) equals eighteen (18) months, 90 semester hours equals two (2) years, Bachelor’s Degree (120 semester hours) equals three (3) years).
- Demonstrated experience providing application and/or desktop support to end users.
- Demonstrated experience troubleshooting Windows workstation operating systems and applications.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in information technology or computer science.
- Experience in the use of Microsoft Active Directory, including group and object management, policy tasks, access control and authorization.
- Experience supporting essential network services (DNS, DHCP, and/or VPNs) and diagnosing network problems.
- Experience supporting mobile technology platforms (Examples: tablets, iPads, smartphones).
- IT Certifications related to core responsibilities and knowledge of position (e.g. CompTIA A+, MCSE, CCNA, HDI Customer Service, etc.).
Infrastructure Specialist
This role requires more experience and a deeper understanding of network infrastructure. Responsibilities include:
- Hardware, Software, and Systems Support: Installation and configuration of workstations, servers, mobile devices, and software. Maintaining patching, security, and other endpoint management of workstations and servers. Assisting with the maintenance of administrative infrastructure, including file, print, web, database servers, and specialized vendor applications. Serving as a resource for major software version upgrades and replacing outdated technologies with new and current technologies.
- End-User Support: Providing assistance to help desk operations by providing application and desktop support to customers. Working within defined policies and procedures to solve user or system problems, including those that require solutions with originality and/or ingenuity. Identifying problems to be solved, and escalating appropriately.
- Security: Implementing system and security best practices.
- Application Administration: Participating and supporting software development projects, from conception through testing, implementation, and documentation.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Five (5) years of work experience in IT-related functions such as hardware/software support, programming, network design, network engineering, IT systems integration, or closely related field.
- College coursework which includes Information Technology (IT), IT Management, Programming, IT systems, or a closely related discipline may be substituted as follows: 30 semester hours equals one (1) year, Associate’s Degree (60 semester hours) equals eighteen (18) months, 90 semester hours equals two (2) years, Bachelor’s Degree (120 semester hours) equals three (3) years).
- Demonstrated experience providing application and/or desktop support to end-users.
- Demonstrated experience troubleshooting Windows or MacOS workstation operating systems and applications
- Demonstrated experience using endpoint management, device imaging, or centralized technology delivery solutions.
- Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Active Directory.
- Demonstrated experience supporting network services and/or diagnosing network problems.
- Demonstrated experience supporting Windows server operating systems, applications and/or hardware.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in information technology, computer science, or related field.
- Experience with Apple OS and iOS in an enterprise environment.
- Experience with Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP (LAMP) servers and services.
- Experience with digital signage and/or CCTV systems.
- Experience administering MS SQL Server and MS IIS webservers.
- Experience with server, desktop or application virtualization and SAN infrastructure
- Experience supporting mobile technology platforms (eg. tablets, iPads, or smartphones).
- IT Certifications related to core responsibilities and knowledge of position (e.g. CompTIA Network+, MCSE, CCNA, HDI Customer Service, etc.).
- Experience in a higher education environment.
- Experience with maintaining security best practices.
Senior Infrastructure Specialist
This is a leadership role that requires extensive experience and expertise. Responsibilities include:
- Hardware, Software, and Systems Support: Serving as senior technology consultant and innovator for Student Affairs staff and other associated departments. Researching and evaluating new technology products and upgrades. Installation and configuration of workstations, servers, and mobile devices. Maintaining patching, security, and other endpoint management of workstations and servers. Maintaining critical administrative infrastructure, including file, print, web, database servers, and specialized vendor applications. Serving as a resource for major software version upgrades and replacing outdated technologies with new and current technologies. Designing and implementing tactical and strategic migration plans for major hardware, software, and vendor version upgrades and replacing outdated technologies with new and current technologies. Designing and implementing disaster recovery plans including keeping up to date on start-up procedures, recovery point and recovery time objectives and system prioritization.
- End-User Support: Analyzing functional and performance issues of services, collaborating with peers and senior staff on possible solutions and implementing corrective actions in a timely manner. Taking responsibility for assigned environments and services, independently resolving or escalating issues as needed, with proactive process and/or service improvements in collaboration with other Student Affairs Technology staff. Providing assistance to help desk operations by providing application and desktop support to end-users. Acting as a technical and institutional resource for peers, providing training and advice as needed. Working within defined policies and procedures to solve user or system problems, including original and/or innovative solutions. Identifying problems to be solved, proposing solutions, obtaining approval, and/or escalating appropriately.
- Security: Implementing system and security best practices. Coordinating with the software development team to ensure application software conforms to the University standard for network and system security.
- Application Administration: Assisting as needed in application development in the area of deployments, migrations, upgrades and configurations. Participating and supporting software development projects, from conception through testing, implementation, and documentation. Leading the coordination of support and upgrades with vendors.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Eight (8) years of work experience in IT-related functions such as hardware/software support, programming, network design, network engineering, IT systems integration, or closely related field.
- College coursework which includes Information Technology (IT), IT Management, Programming, IT systems, or a closely related discipline may be substituted as follows: 30 semester hours equals one (1) year, Associate’s Degree (60 semester hours) equals eighteen (18) months, 90 semester hours equals two (2) years, Bachelor’s Degree (120 semester hours) equals three (3) years).
- Demonstrated experience supporting end-users and troubleshooting Windows and/or MacOS systems and applications.
- Demonstrated experience using endpoint management, device imaging, or centralized technology delivery solutions.
- Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Active Directory.
- Demonstrated experience supporting network services (DNS, DHCP, and/or VPNs).
- Demonstrated experience supporting Windows server operating systems, applications and/or hardware.
- Demonstrated experience with server, desktop or application virtualization.
- Demonstrated experience supporting and utilizing performance or network monitoring tools.
- Demonstrated experience in the application of data security standards (FERPA, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, etc) in a large-scale environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in information technology, computer science, or related field.
- Experience with Apple OS and iOS in an enterprise environment.
- Experience administering MS SQL Server and MS IIS webservers.
- Experience with Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP (LAMP) servers and services.
- Experience with SQL query development, including the creation and maintenance of views and stored procedures.
- Experience with digital signage and/or CCTV systems.
- Experience supporting mobile technology platforms (e.g. tablets, iPads, and smartphones).
- IT Certifications related to core responsibilities and knowledge of position (e.g. CompTIA Network+, MCSE, CCNA, HDI Customer Service, etc.).
- Experience in a Higher Education environment.
- Experience maintaining security best practice
Essential Skills and Abilities
Regardless of the specific role, certain skills and abilities are crucial for success in network infrastructure support:
- Technical Proficiency: A strong understanding of networking concepts, hardware, and software.
- Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues efficiently.
- Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively interact with colleagues, end-users, and vendors.
- Teamwork: The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Organizational Skills: Good organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Additional Considerations
- Physical Demands: Installation of server and workstation hardware involves frequent lifting and moving equipment, media, and peripherals weighing approximately 30-35 pounds.
- Work Environment: The majority of work will be within an office work environment, however visits to other campus locations can be expected.
Career Progression
The roles within Student Affairs Technology offer a clear path for career progression. Starting as a student assistant or Infrastructure Specialist Associate, individuals can gain experience and develop their skills to advance to higher-level positions such as Infrastructure Specialist and Senior Infrastructure Specialist. This progression is often accompanied by increased responsibilities, higher salaries, and opportunities for professional development.
Network Administrator Roles in Other Organizations
While the previous sections focused on roles within a university setting, it's helpful to examine network administrator positions in other organizations to gain a broader perspective.
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Responsibilities in a General Business Setting
In a general business setting, a Network Administrator ensures the stable operation of the company networks. This includes:
- Planning, developing, installing, configuring, maintaining, supporting, and optimizing all network hardware, software, and communication links.
- Analyzing and resolving end-user hardware and software computer problems in a timely and accurate fashion.
- Providing end-user training where required.
Specific Tasks
- Performing network design and capacity planning.
- Conducting research on network products, services, protocols, and standards in support of network procurement and development efforts.
- Installing and maintaining network servers and network operating systems.
- Providing second-level technical support to users concerning network system operations.
- Diagnosing problems with network equipment and performing equipment repair or upgrades when appropriate.
- Developing functional data recovery systems and techniques.
- Scheduling and monitoring backups of network data.
- Periodically restoring files, applications, and the entire system on other network hardware to test backup facilities.
- Installing, configuring, and maintaining network cabling and other networking equipment such as hubs, switches, and UPS.
- Overseeing installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network-connected end-user hardware, software, and peripheral devices.
- Installing, configuring, and maintaining IPS/IDS, Firewall, Anti-Virus, Anti-Spam, Antimalware, etc., for maximum internal network protection.
- Establishing and enforcing policies, procedures, and standards regarding LAN, WAN, security, and use of the organization's computer and information assets.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Associate's degree in computer science or related field (B.S. preferred).
Network Administrator in Telecommunications
In the telecommunications industry, a Network Administrator is responsible for ensuring reliable operations, stability, and integrity of the telecommunications network and the District’s voice, data, and wireless network services.
- Configuring, monitoring, and managing the District's networking infrastructure, ensuring proper performance and reliability.
- Assisting in managing all network and physical security solutions.
- Provisioning gateways, switches, and other devices for deployment in the District’s telecommunications network.
- Providing technical support for the District’s telecommunications infrastructure.
- Assisting with the analysis, design, and implementation of new equipment and topologies.
- Assisting in the maintenance of the District’s server infrastructure.
- Assisting with creating and maintaining the District’s workstation images and software package deployments with Microsoft Configuration Manager and Intune.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- An Associate’s Degree in Networking or Computer Science with a minimum of two (2) years of experience working in information technology.
- Relevant network and certification(s) are preferred.
- Demonstrates positive interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Ability to work in a multi-task work environment.
- Attention to detail and strong organizational and analytical skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Network Administrator for Naval Surface Warfare Center
Delaware Nation Industries (DNI) provides manpower and support of IT Operations and Maintenance within the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division Dam Neck Activity (NSWC DD DNA) location.Responsibilities:
- Maintains records and reports concerning network operations and maintenance.
- Troubleshoots network performance issues.
- Analyzes network traffic and provides capacity planning solutions.
- Monitors and responds to complex networking hardware and software problems.
- Interfaces with vendor support service groups to ensure proper escalation during outages or periods of degraded system performance.
- Responsible for design, installation, and support of network communications, including LAN/WAN systems.
- Performs a variety of network engineering tasks and activities that are broad in nature and are concerned with major systems design, integration, and implementation, including personnel, hardware, software, budgetary, and support facilities and/or equipment.
- Provides assistance and oversight for information systems operations activities, including computer and telecommunications/communications operations, data control, LAN/WAN administration and operations support, operating systems programming, system security policy procedures, and/or web strategy and operations.
- Engaged in the operation and support of network facilities, including all communications equipment on various platforms.
- Involved in complex operations that involve two or more additional functions such as, but not limited to, network operations, systems security, systems software support, and production support activities.
- Provides the routine testing and analysis of all elements of the network facilities (including power, software, communications machinery, lines).
- Utilizes software and hardware tools and identifies and diagnoses complex problems and factors affecting network performance.
- Patches and maintains network continuously to meet security compliance standards.
Required skills and Qualifications
- 7+ Years of Network Engineer experience in a DoD environment
- Bachelor Degree or Equivalent Work Experience in related IT field
- Requires DoD 8570 (or DoD 8140) IAT Level II certification.
Network Administrator in Manufacturing
In a manufacturing environment like RAM Aviation, Space & Defense, the Network Administrator maintains the smooth operation of LAN/WAN/Wi-Fi/VPNs.
- Planning, designing, configuring, and installing network hardware and other systems in support of company requirements.
- Creating and ensuring that appropriate network documentation exists, including operational instructions.
- Providing documentation, monitoring, network analysis, and short-term/long-term planning for systems.
Specific Job Duties
- Performing network administration tasks (ex: ACLs, 802.1x groups, and device provisioning); researching event-log warning and errors; and monitoring resources to ensure that network architecture components work together seamlessly.
- Working with InfoSec and other teams to define patch management needs; design and implement appropriate solutions.
- Installing, configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting network-related hardware.
- Configuring hardware, peripherals, services, settings, etc. in accordance with security standards and operational requirements.
- Assisting with deployment and provisioning activities.
- Maintaining and updating system networking devices.
- Planning and executing appropriate documentation, inventory, and related IT control procedures.
- Assisting the help desk and other teams with troubleshooting to identify root causes and provide technical support when needed.
- Researching, selecting, planning, and implementing new technologies to support business needs.
- Developing tools and scripts to assist with routine and complex maintenance tasks.
- Supporting the implementation of major architectural changes.
- Maintaining documentation of systems and processes.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in information technology or related field or equivalent professional experience.
- Thorough understanding of networking concepts.
- Thorough understanding of layer 2 and 3 network switches, preferably Aruba AOS-CX.
- Thorough understanding of firewall configuration, preferably FortiGate.
- Expertise with IPv4, subnets, IPsec Tunnels and protocols.
- Ability to operate as a team or independently as needed.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Network Technician in Banking
In the banking sector, a Network Technician provides exceptional end-user support for operating systems and user applications that reside on the bank’s internal network.
- Installing and supporting internal operating systems (OS).
- Assisting with on-site and remote administration of Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN).
- Troubleshooting internal network and OS problems through resolution in an expedient and professional manner.
- Assisting in managing network control-related and security-related procedures.
Specific Responsibilities
- Providing end-user support for applications (limited to configuration and general usage), reviewing incoming “help desk” requests and implementing solutions in resolving issue(s) in the most expedient and professional manner and monitoring back-up jobs.
- Installing, configuring, and documenting end-user desktop application software.
- Creating new desktop images to accommodate new/modified configuration requirements using imaging software.
- Troubleshooting and maintaining Personal Computers, printers, and other hardware.
- Performing advanced account maintenance for Windows Domain including account creation, group membership, NTFS file permissions, etc.
- Assisting Network Engineers with server/router upgrades and configurations.
- Developing and documenting installation procedures and publishing on F&M Bank Intranet.
- Performing advanced network troubleshooting protocols as required for all host connectivity.
- Configuring and physically installing network equipment in the Bank’s IDF wiring closets.
- Maintaining IDF wiring closets at NOC and remote locations.
- Utilizing Belcore standards to ensure neat and organized cable structures.
- Assisting with VoIP telephone system set-up and maintenance
- Providing routine account and printer support on applications and basic account maintenance on Bank’s iSeries.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. College degree and or/ IT courses or equivalent combined work experience accepted, but college degree preferred.
- Microsoft Fundamentals certification required.
- 2-3 years’ work-related experience with Windows 2012/2016 Server, Windows 10, and Office 2016.
- Experience working with Microsoft domain architectures and Enterprise Backup.
- In-depth knowledge of PC hardware.
- Familiarity with Cisco routing and switching.
- Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
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