5-7 years of hands-on experience in network engineering and/or administration
Proficiency with enterprise switching, routing, wireless, and firewall platforms
Experience with vendors such as Cisco, Meraki, Fortinet, Ubiquiti, or Palo Alto
Working knowledge of TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, VLAN design, QoS, and VPN technologies
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Strong documentation skills and attention to detail
Responsibilities
Design, implement, and document LAN, WAN, and wireless network architectures
Plan and execute network upgrades, ensuring minimal disruption
Configure and manage routing protocols and firewall policies
Monitor network performance and respond to incidents
Administer firewalls, switches, and network access controls
Apply network security best practices and support cybersecurity initiatives
Collaborate with media teams on AV system support
Benefits
Work in a mission-driven environment
Opportunity to mentor junior IT staff
Engage with a collaborative and service-oriented team culture
Involvement in cross-functional projects across various ministries
Be part of a supportive community focused on personal and professional growth
Full Job Description
What you'll do:
The Network Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, deploying, and maintaining the network infrastructure that keeps Lakepointe Church connected and operational across all campuses. This is a dual-role position - you will function as both a network architect when new systems need to be built or upgraded, and as the primary network administrator keeping day-to-day operations running smoothly. You will work alongside ministry teams, staff, and vendors to ensure reliable, secure, and scalable network performance in a fast-moving, mission-driven environment.
Network Design & Engineering
Design, implement, and document LAN, WAN, and wireless network architectures across all church campuses
Plan and execute network upgrades, expansions, and migrations with minimal disruption to church operations
Configure and manage routing protocols, VLANs, switching, and firewall policies
Evaluate and recommend hardware, software, and service providers to meet organizational needs
Develop and maintain network architecture diagrams and technical documentation
Network Administration & Operations
Monitor network performance, availability, and security on a daily basis using appropriate toolsets
Manage DNS, DHCP, IP address management, and network access controls
Administer firewalls, switches, wireless access points, and VPN infrastructure
Respond to network-related incidents and outages, troubleshoot root causes, and implement permanent fixes
Patch and update network devices on a consistent maintenance schedule
Security & Compliance
Apply network security best practices including segmentation, access control, and intrusion detection
Support the organization's cybersecurity posture by working within established policies and frameworks
Assist with risk assessments, vulnerability scans, and remediation efforts
Ensure appropriate separation between guest, staff, and ministry production networks
AV & Event Support
Collaborate with production and media teams to support network-dependent AV systems for services and events
Provide network support for live streaming, broadcast, and campus-wide digital signage infrastructure
Participate in on-call rotation for weekend services and special events as needed
Collaboration & Communication
Work cross-functionally with ministry staff, vendors, and external partners to deliver technology solutions
Communicate technical information clearly to non-technical stakeholders
Mentor junior IT staff and contribute to a collaborative, service-oriented team culture
Skills & Experience you've had:
Required
5-7 years of hands-on experience in network engineering and/or administration
Demonstrated proficiency with enterprise switching, routing, wireless, and firewall platforms
Experience with vendors such as Cisco, Meraki, Fortinet, Ubiquiti, or Palo Alto
Working knowledge of TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, VLAN design, QoS, and VPN technologies
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, event-driven environment
Strong documentation habits and attention to detail
Preferred
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or related field - or equivalent professional experience
Industry certifications such as CCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+, or equivalent
Experience in a multi-site or multi-campus environment
Familiarity with SD-WAN, cloud networking (Azure, AWS), and zero-trust security models
Experience supporting AV-over-IP, streaming infrastructure, or broadcast network environments
Prior experience in a church, non-profit, or education setting is a plus but not required