Network Engineer at Equity Bank Kenya

Role Summary

The Network Engineer will play a key role in supporting the IT department by assisting in the maintenance, implementation, and troubleshooting of network systems to ensure optimal performance, security, and availability. This role provides foundational exposure to enterprise networking and works closely with senior network engineers to ensure seamless connectivity, uptime, and efficient IT operations across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the configuration, installation, and maintenance of network hardware and software, including routers, switches, access points, and firewalls.
• Monitor network performance, identify potential issues, and escalate critical problems to senior engineers as needed.
• Provide first-level network support, troubleshooting connectivity issues, resolving minor network faults, and escalating complex issues within SLA timelines.
• Support network security protocols, including implementing access controls, monitoring firewalls, and ensuring compliance with IT security policies.
• Maintain network inventory, documenting configurations, equipment changes, and updates in line with best practices.
• Assist in analyzing network traffic patterns and identifying potential bottlenecks to improve network efficiency.
• Work with senior engineers to enforce firewall policies, VPN configurations, and endpoint security guidelines.
• Participate in incident response activities related to network security breaches or cyber threats.
• Assist in deploying and managing wireless networks, ensuring optimal performance for corporate and guest users.

Key Deliverables & Performance Metrics

• Network Uptime & Reliability: Contribute to maintaining a 99.9%+ network availability by supporting proactive monitoring and maintenance.
• Incident Response & Resolution: Ensure timely troubleshooting and resolution of network-related incidents within SLA guidelines.
• Network Security Compliance: Assist in enforcing network security standards, ensuring compliance with company policies and industry best practices.
• Technical Documentation: Maintain accurate network documentation, ensuring all changes and configurations are well recorded.
• Process Improvement: Identify and recommend optimizations in network operations, contributing to increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Basic knowledge of networking protocols, including TCP/IP, VLANs, OSPF, BGP, and STP.
• Familiarity with network security concepts, including firewalls, VPNs, and NAC solutions.
• Understanding of LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, and SD-WAN technologies.
• Hands-on experience with Cisco, Juniper, Fortinet, or similar networking equipment (preferred but not mandatory).
• Basic knowledge of network monitoring tools (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG, Wireshark).
• Understanding of cloud networking (Azure, AWS, GCP) and hybrid cloud environments is an added advantage.

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to troubleshooting.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, for technical reporting and user support.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to evolving networking technologies. 

Preferred Certifications

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• CompTIA Network+
• Juniper Networks Certified Associate (JNCIA)
• Fortinet NSE 4 (if working with Fortinet firewalls 

Experience

• 2-4 years of experience in a networking or IT support role.