Associate engineer Jobs in Kitchener, ON

The Network Engineer plays a key role in shaping and maintaining the organizations network environment across both data center and cloud-based platforms. This position is responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting secure, scalable network solutions that enable reliable connectivity for a growing, multi-location organization. Reporting to the Senior Manager of Network & Security, the role combines long-term planning with hands-on technical work to ensure the network infrastructure remains stable, resilient, and aligned with business needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and deploy network architecture that supports both current operational needs and future growth, ensuring scalability, security, and performance across the enterprise.
• Maintain and optimize enterprise networking environments including LAN, WAN, wireless networks, and remote connectivity solutions.
• Continuously monitor network performance, proactively identifying issues and implementing improvements to maintain uptime and reliability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex networking and security issues affecting infrastructure, systems, or users.
• Evaluate new networking technologies, tools, and vendors, providing recommendations for infrastructure enhancements and procurement decisions.
• Implement and maintain network security controls and configurations across firewalls, gateways, and perimeter infrastructure.
• Contribute to the development of operational standards, policies, and procedures related to network management and system access.
• Document network architecture, processes, and configuration standards while supporting knowledge sharing and internal training where required.
• Participate in an on-call rotation to support critical infrastructure outside regular business hours.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree or diploma in Information Technology, Computer Networking, or a related discipline. Industry certifications such as CCNP, JNCIP, or PCNSE are considered strong assets.
• Approximately five or more years of experience working in advanced network engineering or network administration roles supporting enterprise environments.
• Hands-on experience supporting hybrid infrastructures that include both on-premise networking and cloud platforms such as AWS or Microsoft Azure.
• Practical experience working with enterprise networking technologies including Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, and SD-WAN solutions such as Silver Peak.
• Strong understanding of core networking concepts including routing and switching, TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, VLANs, QoS, and LAN/WAN architecture.
• Familiarity with security and infrastructure technologies such as firewalls, VPN/IPSec, NAT, DNS, LDAP, Active Directory, wireless networks, and telecommunications platforms.
• Experience using monitoring and management tools that leverage protocols such as SNMP along with load balancing and intrusion prevention technologies.
• Working knowledge of automation or scripting using tools such as Bash or PowerShell.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, particularly in high-availability environments where rapid diagnosis and resolution are critical.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills, including the ability to clearly communicate technical information using tools such as Visio and Microsoft Office.
• Flexibility to participate in extended-hours or after-hours support when required.