Reports To: IT Infastructure and Services Coordinator
Salary: This is a full-time, 12-month position (232 days), with a minimum annual salary of $81,352.00
Summary: Work independently with minimal supervision to support wide area networks (WAN), local area networks (LAN), and cybersecurity services for ESC Region 13 and constituent school systems. This position combines traditional network administration responsibilities with cybersecurity functions, including monitoring, incident response, system hardening, and providing cybersecurity guidance and training to school system personnel.
Required Qualifications: Any of the fo llowing will be considered:
Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field
Associate degree in a technical field and 3 years of experience in networking and cybersecurity
Technical school completion and 3 years of experience in networking and cybersecurity
Significant experience in networking and cybersecurity may be considered in place of formal education
In addition:
Candidates without current CompTIA certification(s) must obtain Security+ or equivalent within a reasonable time following employment (typically within six months).
Ongoing professional development is expected, including pursuit of advanced or additional certifications relevant to network administration, cybersecurity, and/or cloud infrastructure.
Preferred Qualifications:
Relevant industry certifications such as CompTIA (Security+, Network+), CISSP (a plus), CEH (preferred), or related credentials
Experience with pfSense, Palo Alto Networks (firewall policy, VPN, and security profile management), Microsoft 365 Security Center, and Google Workspace Admin/Security Tools
Experience with Aruba/HP Greenlake, Cisco Meraki, and Ubiquiti Unifi platforms
Familiarity with the Texas Cybersecurity Framework (preferred but not required) ; an in- depth understanding of cybersecurity standards such as NIST or ISO 27001 is strongly preferred
Knowledge/ Skills:
Solid understanding of TCP/IP networking, Vl.ANs, routing, switching, and VPN technologies
Proficiency in firewall and content filter configuration and management (pfSense, Palo Alto preferred)
Experience with l.AN/WAN design, monitoring, and troubleshooting for multi- site environments
Familiarity with intrusion detection and prevention systems, DDoS mitigation, and incident response
Experience supporting server administration functions for constituent school systems, including virtualization platforms such as VMware and Hyper- V, patching, imaging, and system lifecycle management.
Knowledge of M365 and Google Workspace security and identity management controls
Ability to conduct cybersecurity training sessions and technical workshops for school system IT staff
Strong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a regional team environment
Major Responsibilities:
Serve as a representative of ESC Region 13, displaying courtesy, tact, consideration, and discretion in all interactions with other members of the educational community and with the public
Network Adrrinistration Responsibiiities
Provide network support and troubleshooting to internal and external clients by phone and on- site service
Monitor WAN and l.AN network status for ESC Region 1 3 and constituent school systems, including benchmark performance for connectivity to multiple upstream providers
Manage network routers, firewalls, switches, and content filters
Configure and monitor wireless networks for on-site and remote clients
Manage equipment configurations, installations, and upgrades for WAN and l.AN environments
Conduct server installations, patch management, and virtual infrastructure support
Provide server administration and virtualization support for constituent school systems, including deployment, maintenance, and optimization of VMware, Hyper- V, and similar platforms
Participate in network planning, design, and capacity management for ESC Region 13 and supported school systems
Create and maintain network and configuration documentation for team use
Cybersecurity and Training Responsibilities
Administer and monitor firewalls (Palo Alto, pfSense) and VP N connections for security and availability
Implement and maintain intrusion detection/prevention systems and perform incident response activities
Conduct cybersecurity risk assessments and vulnerability scans to identify and remediate security gaps
Manage security settings, alerts, and compliance baselines in Microsoft 365 Security Center and Google Workspace Admin Console
Support the development and alignment of cybersecurity controls with the Texas Cybersecurity Framework (TCF) and recognized standards such as NIST CSF and ISO 27001
Develop and deliver training sessions and workshops for constituent school systems on cybersecurity best practices, data protection, and incident response readiness
Collaborate with technology directors and administrators across school systems to strengthen regional cybersecurity awareness and response capabilities
Research emerging threats and evolving security technologies, providing proactive recommendations to improve resilience across educational environments
Perform other duties as assigned
Supervisory Responsibilities: None
Budget Responsibilities: None
Working Conditions:
Communicate effectively, both written and orally
Follow policies and procedures
Able to lift 50 lbs and perform equipment installation tasks
Maintain emotional control under stress and manage multiple priorities
I nterpret and maintain technical data and documentation
Work independently and as a team member
Work extended hours as needed, including evenings or weekends for critical maintenance or school system support
Demonstrate strong troubleshooting and analytical skills