SENIOR IT FIELD ENGINEER
Location: Chicago Metro Area - Onsite/Field-Based

Position
Ascend Technologies is seeking a Senior IT Field Engineer to provide hands-on technical support and infrastructure services across multiple client locations throughout the Chicago metro area.
This is a client-facing, field-based position for an experienced IT professional who enjoys troubleshooting complex technical issues and working directly with customers. The Senior IT Field Engineer will independently support a variety of Microsoft, server, network, cloud, and end-user environments while serving as a trusted technical resource for our clients.
The ideal candidate is a well-rounded IT infrastructure professional with strong troubleshooting skills who is comfortable working independently and moving between different client environments and technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide onsite technical support and infrastructure services across multiple client locations throughout the Chicago metro area.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues involving desktops, servers, networks, cloud services, and other IT infrastructure.
• Support Microsoft environments including Windows, Windows Server, Active Directory, Group Policy, Microsoft 365, and Azure.
• Troubleshoot network connectivity, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, routing, switching, wireless networks, firewalls, and VPNs.
• Perform server and hardware troubleshooting, including storage, RAID, virtualization, and physical infrastructure.
• Configure, support, and troubleshoot network equipment including firewalls, routers, switches, and wireless access points.
• Independently assess technical issues onsite, determine root cause, and implement or recommend appropriate solutions.
• Document technical environments, troubleshooting steps, processes, and completed work.
• Communicate effectively with client stakeholders and internal teams regarding technical issues, recommendations, and environment status.
• Participate in client meetings and serve as a trusted technical resource representing Ascend Technologies.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in IT support, systems administration, field engineering, network engineering, or a similar technical role.
• Strong experience supporting Windows desktop and Windows Server environments.
• Hands-on experience with Active Directory, Group Policy, Microsoft 365, and related Microsoft technologies.
• Strong networking fundamentals, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, routing, switching, and wireless networking.
• Experience troubleshooting and supporting firewalls, VPNs, switches, routers, and wireless access points.
• Experience troubleshooting server hardware, storage, virtualization, and network connectivity issues.
• Ability to independently troubleshoot complex technical problems and make sound decisions with minimal guidance or remote support.
• Strong client-facing communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong organization, documentation, time management, and follow-through.
• Ability and willingness to travel regularly between client locations throughout the Chicago metro area.

Preferred Experience
Experience with one or more of the following is highly valued but not required:

• Aruba networking, including Aruba switches, access points, Aruba Central, Instant On, or CLI
• Microsoft Azure
• VMware and/or Hyper-V
• IPSec VPN configuration
• SD-WAN technologies
• macOS support
• Physical network infrastructure, cabling, and cable tracing
• Experience working within an MSP or multi-client IT environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to sit, stand, and bend for the duration of shift. The position is mainly sitting, with occasional lifting up to 50 lbs, such as laptop, server equipment, and, driving to the work site to meet with client(s).

Salary Expectations: $85,000

The salary for this position is commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications. The range is intended to reflect our commitment to attracting top talent, and the final offer will be based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's previous experience, expertise in the field, relevant certifications, and the specific requirements of the role. In addition, internal equity, market trends, and geographic location may also influence the final salary.

Along with a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings options, flexible time off (FTO), and professional development opportunities. We are open to discussing compensation and benefits further during the interview process to ensure alignment with the candidate's expectations and experience.