Role: Network Engineer – Level 1
Location: San Francisco, CA (Onsite)
Duration: 2–3 months
Pay Rate: $40 to $50
Overview: We are seeking Level 1 Network Engineers for a tactical, hands-on hardware refresh project. This role is centered on the physical “rip and replace” of legacy networking gear and the installation of new enterprise infrastructure. The ideal candidate has experience in rack-and-stack operations, structured cabling, and transitioning environments from Cisco Catalyst to Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise (ALE) platforms.
Key Responsibilities
- Hardware Migration: Perform the physical removal of legacy Cisco switches/routers and the installation of new ALE OmniSwitch
- Rack & Stack: Securely mount switches, routers, and UPS units into MDF/IDF racks, ensuring proper airflow and power redundancy.
- Structured Cabling: Dress and label copper and fiber optic patch cables. Ensure clean cable management using Velcro and horizontal/vertical managers.
- Physical Cutover: Execute 1-for-1 equipment swaps, mirroring port connectivity from legacy devices to new hardware.
- Asset Tracking: Meticulously record serial numbers and MAC addresses for all decommissioned and newly installed equipment.
- Basic Provisioning: Assist with initial console connectivity and loading “Golden Images” onto new ALE devices under supervision.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Layer 1 Expertise: Minimum 1 year of hands-on experience in a datacenter or enterprise IDF/MDF environment.
- Hardware Familiarity: Proven ability to handle rack-mount kits and hand tools. Familiarity with Cisco and/or ALE hardware form factors is a plus.
- Cabling Standards: Strong understanding of fiber types (LC/SC, Multimode/Singlemode) and Category 6 copper patching.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to lift-up to 50 lbs and navigate campus wiring closets.
- Reliability: Local to San Francisco and available for 100% onsite work.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Detail Oriented: High standards for “clean” rack installs (no cable “spaghetti”).
- Technical Prep: Experience using console cables/adapters and terminal emulation software (PuTTY/TeraTerm).
