I have a question, I hope someone can help me out.
I am currently an on-site IT Support Technician for two manufacturing facilities(Tier1). Recently one of the network engineers, at the company I work, resigned leaving an opening(at DataCenter). Our current Senior Network Engineer and I have really bonded since I made my interest in networking known at the beginning of this year. I have acquired A+, Net+ and CCENT since January, and I just started my CCNA Studies. Other than these certs, I have very little experience with networking. Only working with our Senior Engineer on stuff.
He is telling me that I should apply for the opening when it is posted, but I do not have some of the required experience or certifications yet. He has told me that the Director could care less about a CCNA certificate, he states, "We can train anyone". I've hit a fork in the road. Do I apply knowing full well they probably think I have more knowledge than I actually do, leaving me at risk of losing my job once promoted? Or, do I not apply and miss out on the promotion I have been waiting for?
If I take the job, how would I apply? Do I need to send him a resume, even though I already work in the department? The job posting says "Apply To ______ _________" (Manager of Network Operations)
Below is the job posting:
Job Title:
Network Engineer I
Summary:
The Network Engineer’s role is to ensure the stability and integrity of in-house voice, data, video, and wireless network services. This is
achieved by planning, designing, and developing local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs) across the organization. In
addition, the Network Engineer will participate with the installation, monitoring, maintenance, support, and optimization of all network
hardware, software, and communication links. This individual will also analyze and resolve network hardware and software problems in a
timely and accurate fashion, and provide end user training where required. Responsibilities Strategy & Planning • Collaborate with the Senior
Network Engineer to assess near- and long-term network capacity needs. • Create and maintain documentation as it relates to network
configuration, network mapping, processes, and service records. Acquisition & Deployment • Assist in the design and deploy company LANs,
WANs, and wireless networks, including servers, routers, hubs, switches, UPSs, and other hardware. • Conduct research on network
products, services, protocols, and standards to remain abreast of developments in the networking industry. • Oversee new and existing
equipment, hardware, and software upgrades. Operational Management • Configure networks to ensure their smooth and reliable operation
for fulfilling business objectives and processes. • Monitor network performance and troubleshoot problem areas as needed. • Oversee
installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of end user workstation hardware, software, and peripheral devices. • Ensure
network connectivity of all servers, workstations, telephony equipment, fax machines, and other network appliances. • Manage servers,
including database, e-mail, print, voice, and backup servers and their associated operating systems and software. • Monitor and test network
performance and provide network performance statistics and reports.
Requirements:
Formal Education & Certification • University degree in computer science or electrical engineering and/or 2 years equivalent work experience.
• Certifications in CCNA. Knowledge & Experience • Proven experience and success with LAN, WAN, Voice design and implementation. •
Proven experience with network capacity planning, network security principles, and general network management best practices. •
Knowledge of telephony systems, including Shoretel. • Working technical knowledge of current network hardware, protocols, and Internet
standards. • Excellent hardware troubleshooting experience. • Competence with testing tools and procedures for voice and data circuits. •
Good understanding of the organization’s goals and objectives. Personal Attributes • Strong interpersonal, written, and oral communication
skills. • Able to conduct research into networking issues and products as required. • Ability to present ideas in user-friendly language. • Highly
self motivated and directed, with keen attention to detail. • Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities. • Able to effectively prioritize tasks
in a high-pressure environment. • Strong customer service orientation. • Experience working in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
