Network Technologist

(Formerly: Computer Network Technologist)

NATURE AND SCOPE OF WORK

A Network Technologist provides technical expertise to the department on matters relating to network planning, selection of equipment and system operations including troubleshooting system faults, analysing problems and correcting malfunctions.

An employee in this classification also installs or oversees the installation of mini-micro computer systems and associated hardware and software. The work involves discussing proposals with users, vendors and telephone personnel and coordinating activities to ensure a minimum of disruption to systems operations. Work also includes monitoring local and wide area networks for link or node failures and for potential communications problems, and taking appropriate remedial action to prevent network shutdown.

A Network Technologist reports to Management.

TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Plans, designs and implements new local and wide area networks for both administrative and educational uses, including planning and coordinating the projects involving the installation and system administration of leased analog and digital data circuits for WAN use.

Researches, tests and makes recommendations for hardware and software for installation and utilization on District networks.

Installs cables, loads and configures system network software.

Monitors local and wide area networks for link or node failures and potential communications problems; takes appropriate measures to rectify potential problem situations.

Maintains detailed documentation on the District's network configurations and the nodes on networks, including pertinent information on the configuration of all nodes.

Installs or assists systems staff with the installation and maintenance of computer hardware or software.

Explains and exchanges information with users to resolve systems problems.

Performs related duties, as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Knowledge concerning established computer systems and associated current practices and procedures.

Knowledge of and demonstrated expertise in Ethernet and Decnet/VMS in a digital VAX and micro-computer environment, plus a knowledge of other network operating systems such as Pathworks, Novell, Microsoft NT, etc.

Knowledge of structural network design practices.

Current knowledge of office and school organization, system practices and procedures governing a distributed computer network.

Knowledge of data, voice and image communications technology in a multivendor, multimedia local and wide area network environment.

Knowledge of current characteristics and capabilities of telecommunications hardware and software.

Ability to maintain sustained attention to detail in planning and designing structural computer networks.

Oral and written communication skills and the ability to transfer system knowledge to others.

Computer network troubleshooting and analytical and systems problem-solving skills.

Ability to direct others when leading projects.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Two year Diploma in Computer Information Systems from a recognized community college or technical institute.

Four years' previous experience in a VAX/VMS operational environment including network administration and management.

           or

Combination of training and experience where the experience is extensive and directly related to the work.

LICENCES, CERTIFICATES AND REGISTRATION

Valid B.C. Driver's Licence.