Network Engineer

Job Description
Role Overview

A leading organisation within the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector is seeking a skilled and proactive Network Engineer to join its Information Technology team. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining, supporting, securing, and optimising the organisation's network infrastructure while ensuring high availability, performance, and compliance within a regulated production environment.

The ideal candidate will possess strong technical expertise in networking technologies, security, infrastructure support, and project delivery, combined with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and third-party service providers.

Key Responsibilities
Core Technical Delivery

• Provide advanced technical support and troubleshooting for network-related issues
• Maintain and administer network infrastructure, including installation, configuration, monitoring, and maintenance of hardware and software
• Monitor system performance and ensure optimal network availability and reliability
• Conduct routine maintenance, firmware upgrades, and system updates
• Implement preventative measures to minimise recurring network incidents
• Ensure network security through monitoring, audits, and implementation of security controls
• Support data protection and system security initiatives
• Lead or contribute to IT infrastructure and networking projects
• Coordinate project timelines, stakeholders, and resources to ensure successful delivery
• Mentor and guide internal and external IT support personnel

Support Services

• Troubleshoot and resolve network and connectivity issues
• Provide Tier 2 and Tier 3 technical support
• Assist with helpdesk management and end-user support
• Support the IT Infrastructure team with operational activities
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot network and software solutions
• Conduct training sessions for new technology users
• Assist with closing departmental quality documentation including CAPAs, Deviations, and Change Controls
• Develop and maintain SOPs, policies, manuals, and technical documentation
• Provide remote, telephonic, and onsite technical support

Proactive & Continuous Improvement Duties

• Perform routine system checks, maintenance, and network performance benchmarking
• Monitor network usage and generate performance reports
• Maintain accurate inventory records for hardware and software assets
• Recommend improvements to network efficiency and security
• Assist with implementation and integration of new technologies
• Identify opportunities for service improvements across the IT landscape
• Participate in special projects and infrastructure enhancement initiatives

Leadership Responsibilities

• Escalate critical issues to senior management where necessary
• Assist with project management activities and coordination
• Support service delivery improvements and operational excellence initiatives
• Collaborate with vendors and service providers to ensure service quality and accountability

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• High attention to detail and quality standards
• Strong organisational and time management capability
• Ability to work under pressure in a regulated environment
• Proactive approach to continuous improvement
• Strong customer service orientation

Employment Equity

The organisation is committed to Employment Equity and the promotion of diversity and inclusion within the workplace. Preference may be given to candidates from designated groups in line with Employment Equity objectives.

Requirements
Bachelor's Degree or National Diploma in Information Security, Computer Science, or a related field

• CompTIA Network+
• Fortinet Network Security Expert (NSE) Level 1-3 or equivalent networking certification

Preferred

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Experience Required
Essential

• 5-10 years' networking experience working with Forti hardware
• Hands-on experience with routers, switches, firewalls, and network software configurations
• Strong understanding of Operational Technology (OT) environments within a production/manufacturing industry
• Proven troubleshooting and root cause analysis capability
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment
• Experience managing and coordinating third-party service providers

Preferred

• Experience within pharmaceutical manufacturing environments
• Working knowledge of pharmaceutical manufacturing legislation
• Minimum 3 years' supervisory or team leadership experience
• Experience with quality and regulatory compliance within a cGMP environment