Position Summary
The Network Engineer ensures the performance and resiliency of the Berkeley Seismological Laboratory network across diverse environments from environmentally-controlled data centers to remote field stations. This position researches, recommends, procures, deploys, manages, monitors, troubleshoots and documents BSL-operated networking equipment that supports data center services, data communications between partner organizations, and data retrieval from remote stations. The position collaborates within the BSL and with outside partner organizations ranging from federal and state agencies to public and private organizations, and trains other BSL staff in monitoring, configuring, and operating the BSL's data communications infrastructure.
Application Review Date
The First Review Date for this job is: November 26, 2026 - Open Until Filled
Responsibilities
Network Equipment Installation and Maintenance - 25%
Install and maintain networking equipment and configurations to support the flow of data from 200+ remote field stations to, between, and within multiple data centers, both on-prem and in the cloud (AWS). Secure and maintain data communications with outside partners and the public. Develop and maintain network monitoring and diagnostic tools.
Network Monitoring and Troubleshooting - 25%
Monitor and respond to network performance degradation and/or loss of connectivity, both within the data center and from remote field stations. Troubleshoot and resolve network issues, both directly and through interactions with a diverse set of collaborators, contacts, and service providers. Review and address bandwidth and latency requirements. Assist with the configuration and troubleshooting of Linux systems and software that perform data acquisition.
Security and Firmware Management - 15%
Manage the security and firmware of networking equipment. Work directly with vendors to isolate and resolve complex hardware, firmware, and/or configuration issues. Configure and troubleshoot Linux systems and software that support network services.
Project Coordination and Evaluation - 15%
Review, collaboratively with colleagues, the data flow needs of the organization. Coordinate all phases of complex network projects, from design and procurement to deployment and documentation. Evaluate and test new, or enhanced, network solutions, with an emphasis on the robust and resilient transfer of data from remote field stations to data processing centers.
Expert Consultation - 15%
Provide expert advice on network solutions and explanations of network issues. Consult with other units and outside collaborators on the joint use of networks, including compatibility and conformance to standards. Participate in cross-disciplinary group discussions, activities, and efforts.
Other Duties - 5%
Other tasks as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- Thorough understanding of common networking protocols, including OSI layer 2 and layer 3 at an expert level.
- Hands-on experience with various networking hardware platforms, both with installation and maintenance.
- Experience with diagnostic tools, including network monitoring and performance assessment.
- Experience with network management systems, including configuration revision control, automating tasks, and remote deployments.
- Experience working within and supporting a Linux environment, including the ability to write and maintain custom scripts.
- Ability to gather, organize and analyze data in the completion of a variety of functional assignments.
- Ability to communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical personnel at various levels in the organization.
- Able to learn effectively and meet deadlines.
- Demonstrated diverse problem-solving skills.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Preferred Qualifications
- Direct operational experience with OSPF, BGP, and IPSEC protocols.
- Experience specifically with Cisco, Palo Alto, Mikrotik, and Sierra Wireless platforms.
- Experience supporting remote field equipment, such as modems, radios, and edge routers.
- Experience writing complex Bash and Python scripts, along with the use of Ansible.
- Experience with Linux systems administration, especially Redhat, including interface bonding and 802.1Q tagging.
Education / Training
Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training (Required)
Salary & Benefits
The budgeted annual salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $100,000 - $150,000 yearly ($8,333.33 to $12,000 monthly).
This is a FLSA Exempt, monthly-paid position.
This is a full-time (40 hours/week) Career position eligible for UC benefits.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.
Other Information
This position is governed by the terms and conditions in the agreement for the Technical Unit (TX) between the University of California and the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE).
Conviction History Background
This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. Berkeley does hire people with conviction histories and reviews information received in the context of the job responsibilities. The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.