Campus WIFI SME - Network Architect

Duration: 3 months (likely will not extend)

Location: Santa Clara, CA (onsite 5 days a week) - Needs to live within an hour or Santa Clara.

Note: Will Consider Hybrid for Strong Candidates!

Key Responsibilities:

• Wi-Fi Network Design & Implementation:
• Design and implement robust, scalable Wi-Fi solutions for campus-wide coverage, optimizing for performance, capacity, and security.
• Develop site surveys, heatmaps, and predictive RF modeling for effective coverage and density planning.
• Configure and deploy access points (APs), controllers, and related infrastructure components to ensure seamless connectivity across campus facilities.
• Operations & Maintenance:
• Perform regular system checks and troubleshoot Wi-Fi issues to minimize downtime and ensure high-quality user experience.
• Conduct firmware updates, configuration backups, and maintenance schedules for Wi-Fi network components.
• Monitor and analyze wireless network performance, identify areas for improvement, and make recommendations for enhancements.
• Advanced Troubleshooting & Support:
• Utilize diagnostic tools and software (e.g., Ekahau, AirMagnet, Mist Dashboard) to detect, troubleshoot, and resolve complex Wi-Fi issues.
• Provide technical support and expertise for escalated Wi-Fi incidents and support requests.
• Collaboration & Documentation:
• Work closely with network engineers, system administrators, and IT support staff to ensure a cohesive IT infrastructure.
• Document all network designs, configurations, and maintenance activities in alignment with company policies and best practices.
• Project Management:
• Lead and support Wi-Fi-related projects, from initial planning and design through deployment and post-implementation support.
• Coordinate with vendors and contractors for installation, support, and procurement of necessary Wi-Fi equipment and services.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelors degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field. Relevant certifications may substitute for formal education.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in Wi-Fi engineering, with at least 2 years in a campus or large-scale environment.
• Expert knowledge of Wi-Fi standards and protocols (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax).
• Hands-on experience with Mist, Cisco (Catalyst, Meraki), and Aruba Wi-Fi solutions.
• Proficiency with wireless design tools such as Ekahau or AirMagnet.
• Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, VLANs, VPN, etc.) and wireless security practices.
• Certifications: Relevant certifications such as CWNA, CWNP, CCNP Wireless, or vendor-specific certifications (e.g., Cisco Wireless LAN certifications) are highly desirable.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Project management capabilities with experience leading cross-functional projects. Preferred Experience:
• Experience with large-scale campus environments in higher education, healthcare, or corporate campuses.
• Knowledge of network monitoring and analytics tools, especially within the Mist or Cisco ecosystem.

Must have:

• Bachelors degree in information technology, Computer Science, or a related field. Relevant certifications may substitute for formal education.
• Experience with large-scale campus environments in higher education, healthcare, or corporate campuses.
• Minimum of 5 years in Wi-Fi engineering, with at least 2 years in a campus or large-scale environment.
  Technical Skills:
• Expert knowledge of Wi-Fi standards and protocols (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax).
• Hands-on experience with Mist, Cisco (Catalyst, Meraki), and Aruba Wi-Fi solutions.
• Proficiency with wireless design tools such as Ekahau or AirMagnet.
• Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, VLANs, VPN, etc.) and wireless security practices.
• Certifications: Relevant certifications such as CWNA, CWNP, CCNP Wireless, or vendor-specific certifications (e.g., Cisco Wireless LAN certifications) are highly desirable.
• Project management capabilities with experience leading cross-functional projects.
• Knowledge of network monitoring and analytics tools, especially within the Mist or Cisco ecosystem.