<p>Kforce's Milwaukee-based client is looking for a Network Engineer to join the team on a contract to hire basis after 6 months. This role will be hybrid, with expectations to be in the office on Tuesday and Thursdays. Some local travel may apply.</p> <p>Enterprise Network Engineering & Support:</p> <ul> <li>Provide operational support for enterprise network platforms including switching, routing, firewalls, and wireless systems </li><li>Support enterprise wireless platforms through configuration, monitoring, performance tuning, and analytics </li><li>Diagnose and resolve network incidents </li><li>Assist with the design and implementation of network enhancements aligned with architectural and security best practices </li><li>Develop and execute test plans to validate network changes and deployments </li><li>Provide SD WAN support as needed for routing policies, monitoring, and connectivity </li></ul> <p>Hardware Lifecycle Management:</p> <ul> <li>Manage lifecycle activities for a large inventory of network hardware, including switches, firewalls, wireless access points, and SD WAN devices </li><li>Coordinate planning and execution of hardware upgrades, refresh projects, and decommissioning efforts across multiple locations </li><li>Maintain accurate documentation of inventory, lifecycle stages, and platform dependencies </li><li>Collaborate with procurement teams, logistics, and field resources to ensure seamless deployment and transitions </li></ul> <p>Platform & Process Optimization:</p> <ul> <li>Identify opportunities to improve network reliability, automation, documentation, and operational processes </li><li>Stay current with emerging networking technologies, industry trends, and best practices </li></ul> <p>Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement:</p> <ul> <li>Work closely with global and cross functional teams to understand requirements and deliver scalable solutions </li></ul> <p>Documentation & Knowledge Development:</p> <ul> <li>Create and maintain detailed documentation including network diagrams, standards, lifecycle plans, and troubleshooting guides* Strong hands-on experience with enterprise routing, switching, wireless platforms, and firewall technologies </li><li>Experience supporting large-scale network environments </li><li>Understanding of network security principles, segmentation, and best practices </li><li>Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills with experience conducting Root Cause Analysis </li><li>Excellent written and verbal communication skills </li><li>Understanding of change management practices </li><li>Ability to work effectively with cross-functional and global teams </li><li>Willingness to learn new tools, technologies, and methodologies </li></ul>