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
Embody all Lakepointe Leadership Behaviors:- Love and follow Jesus
- Honor up, down, and all around
- Make it fun
- Reject good for great
- Whatever it takes
- Love Lakepointe
