Network Systems Engineer

Network Systems Engineer

Department: IT, Corporate
Location: Itasca, IL
Type: Full-time

Summary:
The Network Systems Engineer is responsible for the implementation, maintenance, and support of Prinova's network and systems infrastructure across all domestic and global locations. This role ensures high levels of availability, security, and performance for critical business systems and network services. The candidate will work closely with the Senior IT Director - Network Integration and the Network Team to support ongoing projects, system upgrades, and strategic technology initiatives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following, but are not limited to:

• Design, configure, and maintain core network infrastructure, including switches, routers, firewalls, VPNs, and wireless systems.
• Maintain and administer Windows Server, virtualized environments (VMware/Hyper-V), and cloud-based systems (Azure/M365).
• Monitor system and network performance to ensure availability, reliability, and security.
• Troubleshoot complex network/systems issues and provide Tier 3 technical support.
• Implement and maintain security controls, including firewalls, MFA, endpoint protection, and adherence to best practices.
• Support backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity solutions.
• Plan and execute system and network upgrades, migrations, and lifecycle replacements.
• Maintain detailed documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and procedures.
• Collaborate with vendors and service providers on projects, escalations, and service improvements.
• Participate in on-call rotation for after-hours support as needed.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but may mentor junior team members and provide guidance to IT support staff.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in information technology, computer engineering, or related field; or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years in network/systems engineering roles.
• Experience with enterprise networking technologies.
• Experience supporting Windows Server, Active Directory, Group Policy, and virtualization platforms.
• Experience with cloud systems, including Microsoft Azure and M365 administration.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of network protocols, routing, switching, and security principles.
• Expertise with firewalls, VPN technologies, and network segmentation.
• Strong experience with virtualization, backup systems, and disaster recovery.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST, CIS Controls, and Zero Trust principles.
• Experience in configuring next-generation firewalls and secure remote access solutions.
• Knowledge of vulnerability management tools and processes, including remediation planning.
• Experience in performing network security hardening, including patching, endpoint control, and secure configuration baselines.
• Familiarity with SIEM platforms (e.g., Microsoft Sentinel, Splunk) for log analysis, alert triage, and incident response.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent documentation and communication skills.

Travel:

Up to 20% domestic or international travel may be required to support Prinova facilities, which may include occasional weekend or off-hours travel based on project needs.

Work Conditions & Physical Requirements:

• Work is primarily performed in an office environment.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds for equipment installation.
• After-hours work is required during maintenance windows or incidents.

Quality/Safety Responsibilities:

All Prinova employees are required to ensure compliance standards with food safety, food defense, and food quality (FDA, ILDPH, FSMA, and BRC).

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with occupational safety and health standards issued under OSHA and to follow all rules, regulations, and procedures established by the Company to ensure that their actions do not impact the health and safety of themselves or others.

What's in it for you?

Competitive Pay - $120,000 - $140,000 annually

Experience, education, geographic location and shift all taken into consideration.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Employer paid STD and LTD
• HSA and FSA
• Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave
• PTO
• Employer paid Basic Life Insurance
• 401(k) & Roth with employer match
• Eight Paid Holidays + 3 Floating Holidays
• Voluntary - Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident
• Personal growth including training and development opportunities