Network and Telecom Engineer

Position Overview

Join Smithfield Foods as a Network and Telecommunications Engineer and be part of an organization with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products. In this role, you will design, implement, and support enterprise-wide network and telecommunications systems that form the backbone of our business operations. You will manage standards, ensure security, and oversee administration and monitoring processes across both on-premise and cloud-based environments, while collaborating with IT teams and vendors to deliver technical solutions that embody our infrastructure strategy and governance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the enterprise design, build, and administration of network platforms to ensure stability, scalability, and performance (Cisco a plus).
• Manage and optimize network environments across key technologies including routing (BGP, EIGRP, OSPF), switching (spanning tree, VLAN, VTP), services (DNS, DHCP, SMB, subnetting, NetFlow), VPN (SSL/IPSec), SD-WAN, wireless, and telecom/VoIP. Support multi-cloud networking (AWS, Azure preferred) including security groups and NSGs (Cisco and Fortinet a plus).
• Utilize monitoring and diagnostic tools (Cisco DNA, SolarWinds, ThousandEyes, Wireshark) to evaluate performance, troubleshoot issues, and maintain reliability.
• Leverage orchestration tools and programming skills (Ansible a plus) to automate network processes and enhance operational efficiency.
• Configure, install, upgrade, and maintain client/server network software and telecom systems to ensure smooth functionality and minimal downtime.
• Analyze and resolve complex issues by identifying root causes, implementing efficient solutions, mitigating risks, and translating business requirements into technical solutions.
• Collaborate with Security, Enterprise Architecture, and other IT teams to integrate secure and reliable solutions aligned with organizational needs.
• Work independently with the flexibility to adapt to changing technologies while mentoring peers through knowledge-sharing.
• Maintain clear documentation of network design, standards, and procedures while effectively communicating technical information to peers and leadership.
• Provide on-site support and project implementation with up to 25% travel as required.
• Administer network and telecommunications systems to ensure availability and reliability for all authorized users.
• Offer technical assistance by responding to inquiries from staff, administrators, service providers, and vendors, and troubleshoot issues with network hardware/software, telephones, and security systems to restore service.
• Maintain the Company’s telecommunications infrastructure including PBXs, call accounting, Automatic Call Distribution (ACD), voicemail, interactive voice response, video conferencing systems, and MS Teams.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications, Network Engineering, Information Technology Management, or a related field, with 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Current Cisco CCNA and/or Cisco CCDA certification required.
• Experience supporting cloud migrations and maintaining network security through effective VPN and firewall configuration.
• Strong technical, analytical, and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic business environment.
• Availability to respond to customer needs including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of equipment issues.
• A team-oriented mindset with the ability to build strong relationships and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional certifications such as Cisco CCNP are preferred.