Full Job Description
We are currently seeking a Network Operations Manager at the KRESA Service Center in Portage, Michigan. The essential duties and responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:
• Align services with KRESA Core Values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity) and Culture & Belonging principles to engage and serve all students
• Lead and mentor the network team, fostering a culture of growth, inclusivity, and high performance
• Support team members' professional development through coaching and training
• Ensure that the datacenter, fiber optics, leased circuits and network hardware for KRESA and our partner districts are properly maintained and secure
• Responsible for ensuring highly reliable Internet access for KRESA and all partner districts by Monitoring network performance and proposing necessary upgrades or improvements
• Manage network-related projects using industry-standard management frameworks (e.g., Agile, Scrum, Kanban), ensuring alignment with organizational goals and timely delivery
• Communicate network changes, upgrades, or outages to MiTech staff and key stakeholders
• Recommend, manage, and support physical security systems such as electronic building access controls and video surveillance systems
• Install and configure network hardware, providing high-level troubleshooting and support to ensure optimal performance and reliability
• Ability to resolve critical/complex issues (routing/switching, wireless, firewall, VoIP, surveillance/access control), performing deep-dive troubleshooting and coordinating resolution
• Maintain proficiency in core technologies by regularly participating in configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities alongside the team staff
• Lead RFP technical requirements development for partner districts and participate directly in evaluation and implementation planning (including hands-on validation of proposed solutions)
• Partner with our E-rate consultant and Site Coordinators to obtain funding for network projects • Manage network operations center (NOC), including incident response
• Ensure network related items in the disaster recovery plan are regularly updated and tested
• Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) for unplanned outages, developing actionable insights to prevent future occurrences
• Ensure network documentation (diagrams, inventories, configurations) remains current and usable by others for continuity of operations
• Create network documentation and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Act as the Project Manager for all networking projects, creating user stories, and leading appropriate meetings to ensure district needs are met
• Troubleshoot and repair network cabling as needed
• Other duties as assigned
Qualified candidates will have a:
• Bachelor's degree in related field required
• Scrum, Agile, or Kanban project management
• 5+ years of professional IT experience, at least two of which were in a supervisory capacity showing a strong history of customer service, teamwork, and innovation
• Experience installing and maintaining network systems such as firewalls, switches, wireless networking, video surveillance, and telephony
• Experience working with bond consultants and construction planning committees
• Experience with E-Rate grant filing
• Experience managing network security, authentication and security protocols, security vulnerabilities and remediation techniques
• Experienced in network cabling installation and repairs
• Experience with various networked K-12 technologies, including, clocks, bells, public address, access controls, cameras, classroom and conference room audio visual systems
Certificates, License, Registration: One or more related certifications such as: Cisco CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Administrator) or equivalent, Cisco CCNE (Cisco Certified Network Engineer) or equivalent, Comp TIA N+, Security+
Other skills and abilities include:
• Embraces and supports KRESA philosophies related to our core values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity), Culture & Belonging, and Continuous Improvement
• Embraces and supports KRESA's vision of a transformative, equitable and innovative education for all in the Greater Kalamazoo region
• Ability to interact effectively with individuals from a wide range of identities and lived experiences
• Ability to discuss differences with colleagues and clients in a manner that supports building positive working relationships
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage direct reports, setting clear expectations, and ensuring accountability for performance and outcomes
• Budgeting, planning, and procurement
• Ability to troubleshoot and repair various network hardware
• Ability to update and manage FortiGate firewalls and VPN connections
• The candidate should have knowledge of enterprise IT security best practices, TCP/IP networks, and security architectures best practices and methodology
• Team player with ability to build strong cross-functional relationships
• Ability to communicate effectively including listening
• Excellent project management, communication, and presentation skills required
• Flexible and open-minded when working with staff and various stakeholders
• Works in a team-oriented fashion
• Ability to efficiently troubleshoot computer and software issues
• Strong ability to solve problems
• Displays willingness to support and make decisions with sound judgment in timely manner
• Ability to read, analyze and interpret data
• Ability to write reports, correspondence, create thorough documentation and procedures
• Adapts to frequent changes in the work environment
• Practices safe work habits
This is a 12-month calendar position in job grade 19T with an annual rate of pay between $108,144 and $134,768.
KRESA employees enjoy a comprehensive benefit offering that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement benefits through Michigan's Office of Retirement Services, tuition reimbursement, student loan forgiveness and wellness incentives - all within a supportive and caring culture centered around our values of collaboration, innovation, compassion, integrity, and respect.
A Great Place to Live and Work
Kalamazoo was recently recognized as a great place to live in the 2024 50 Best Places to Live roundup by Money.com. Kalamazoo was noted for its abundant family-friendly activities and appreciation for artisan-crafted goods, as well as the Kalamazoo Promise, a scholarship for each Kalamazoo Public School resident graduate that provides up to 100% tuition for post-secondary education.