Network engineer jobs in The Woodlands, TX

is onsite 5 days per week in Sugar Land, TX. Candidates must be local. 6-month contract-to-hire opportunity The primary function of this position is to maintain and troubleshoot a large Cisco Catalyst environment with Fortigate and Cisco Networking. This position will also perform network and system support functions on segments of the computer environment, including planned and emergency maintenance, performance and security analysis, and monitoring, tuning and implementation of new products and procedures. Analyzes emerging technology and makes recommendations for constant improvements to network and infrastructure services and capabilities. Ensures that the implementation and rolling out of IT solutions are designed and planned with minimum disruption to the business processes. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The statements below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified in this position. Position Overview: We are seeking a skilled and motivated Cisco Network Engineer to design, implement, secure, and support our enterprise network infrastructure. This role will focus on configuring and maintaining Cisco switches, routers, firewalls, and Firepower appliances while ensuring high availability and security of our network services. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with routing protocols-especially OSPF-and a proven ability to troubleshoot complex network issues in mission-critical environments. Key Responsibilities: Install, configure, and maintain Cisco Catalyst Switches and Routers in access, distribution, and core layers. Manage and support Cisco routers with a strong emphasis on OSPF routing design, redistribution, and troubleshooting. Configure, monitor, and secure Cisco ASA, FortiGate, and Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) firewalls, including policy creation, NAT, VPNs, and intrusion prevention. Perform routine network performance monitoring, tuning, and capacity planning. Implement network redundancy and failover strategies to maximize uptime. Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to align firewall and intrusion prevention systems with security policies. Troubleshoot Layer 2/3 connectivity issues and provide timely resolution of incidents. Maintain accurate documentation of network diagrams, device configurations, and operational procedures. Stay current with Cisco best practices, emerging technologies, and security advisories. Required Qualifications: 3+ years of experience working with Cisco networking technologies (switches, routers, firewalls). Strong knowledge of OSPF routing protocol and general IP routing concepts. Hands-on experience with Cisco ASA and Cisco Firepower Threat Defense. Proficiency in troubleshooting complex Layer 2/3 issues using CLI and monitoring tools. Familiarity with VPN technologies (site-to-site, remote access) and firewall rule management. Ability to create and interpret network diagrams and documentation. Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Preferred Qualifications: Cisco certifications such as CCNA, CCNP (Enterprise, Security, or equivalent). Experience with other routing protocols (EIGRP, BGP) and advanced firewall features. Familiarity with automation tools (Python, Ansible, Netmiko) for network management. Experience in high-availability enterprise or government environments. Soft Skills: Strong communication skills for collaborating with IT teams and leadership. Ability to work independently and handle high-pressure situations. Strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities effectively. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this position successfully, an individual(s) must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Knowledge: Theory and methods of computer networks, operation, security, and operating systems. Data processing availability, recovery and backup techniques. Prefer knowledge of public sector technologies for municipal governments. Skills: Strong inter-personal and communication skills. Must be capable of writing proposals or papers. A solid skillset of Cisco IOS, VPN, and Cisco ASA. Familiarity with microwave and cellular data networking is a plus. Can proactively monitor systems and familiar with patterns. A solid understanding of networking, communications, and data security. Requires initiative, independent thinking, strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Abilities: Prepare clear, comprehensive and concise reports and instructions. Solve problems quickly and completely. Identify tasks which require automation and automate them. Read and interpret technical reference materials. Follow oral and written directions. Plan and monitor assigned activities. EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: The preferred way to obtain the minimum knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this position are listed below. Formal Education: A Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering or other relevant STEM field or equivalent technical training backed by industry recognized credentials and certifications. Relatable Work Experience: Three years of information technology experience with an emphasis on infrastructure and operations. Experience in the following technologies/products is required, Cisco networking and communications applications and appliances Training (License and/or Certification): Valid Texas Driver License. ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions. Normal hours/ days of work: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Will be subject to a weekly on-call phone after hours on rotation. Description of daily work environment: Work area is located in the Information Technology Department. #TECHIND