Network Specialist

Network Specialist

Full‑Time, Permanent Position – 100% FTE

Department: Information Technology

Reports to: Director of Information Technology

Role Overview

The Network Specialist is responsible for the design, administration, security, and continuous operation of the school’s technology infrastructure, ensuring reliable access to critical systems and services that support teaching, learning, and daily operations. The role manages and maintains the school’s wired and wireless networks, servers, storage systems, telecommunications, cloud services, cybersecurity tools, backup and disaster recovery solutions, and data‑centre operations. Acting as a senior technical resource, the specialist diagnoses and resolves complex infrastructure issues, provides second‑ and third‑level technical support, collaborates with vendors and service providers, and leads the planning and implementation of technology enhancements. The incumbent also oversees system documentation, hardware and software procurement, security compliance activities, and business continuity initiatives, while ensuring the availability, performance, and integrity of the IT environment on a 24/7 basis. This posting is to replace the previous incumbent.

Who You Are

You are a highly skilled IT professional with a deep understanding of network infrastructure, computer systems, and emerging technologies, combined with exceptional organizational, project management, and problem‑solving abilities. You thrive in a dynamic environment where balancing multiple priorities, managing complex technical initiatives, and responding to critical issues are part of everyday work. Known for your attention to detail, drive, and determination, you take pride in delivering reliable, secure, and high‑performing technology solutions. Equally important, you are a collaborative and service‑oriented partner who builds strong relationships with colleagues, vendors, and end users. As an advocate for girls’ education, you understand that a dependable and seamlessly functioning IT environment is essential to supporting student learning, empowering educators, and enabling the school to achieve its mission. You keep current with emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and new systems, and are committed to ongoing professional growth.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Administration, Information Systems, or a related field.
• Equivalent combinations of education, technical certifications, and directly related experience may be considered.
• Knowledge or training in emerging technologies including artificial intelligence and their responsible use in an education setting is considered an asset.
• Industry certifications would be considered a strong asset, such as:
• Fortinet NSE/Fortinet Certified Professional (FCP) or equivalent
• Cisco CCNA or CCNP
• VMware VCP
• Microsoft specialization certifications (Azure, Windows Server, Active Directory)
• CompTIA Network+ and/or Security+
• ITIL Foundation

Experience

• 7+ years of progressively responsible experience supporting and administering enterprise‑level network and server infrastructure.
• Experience with virtualization technologies, storage area networks, Microsoft server environments, cybersecurity, backup and disaster recovery systems, and complex wired and wireless network environments is required. Relevant industry certifications (e.g., Fortinet, Cisco, VMware, Microsoft, CompTIA) are considered strong assets.
• Experience supporting technology operations within an educational environment is an asset.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Create, build, maintain and monitor wired/wireless IP LAN/WAN network, HP/KM/Canon network printing, Fortinet VoIP system/phones, Microsoft AD/DNS/DHCP/SMB, VMware/Workstation Pro/vSphere ESXi, DELL EMC SAN/SAN Brocade‑DS switching network, file/Papercut‑MF print/(MS‑SQL) application servers/desktops, desktop/server Sophos Endpoint protections, Fortinet Mid‑range (Campus) series NGFW/AI/ML firewall, Alcatel/SAS routers & Meraki/Fortinet networking switch systems.
• Google Workspace Education Admin console access for domain, OU, device application management.
• Ensure 24/7/365 datacentre/systems/network/applications uptime; on‑call 24/7/365 with supplied iPhone, working with vendor maintenance/support staff onsite/offsite as required.
• Datacentre/UPS units (GE‑LP33‑30kVA, CyberPower‑1500VA) physical facility operations and maintenance, monitoring, scheduled servicing, including outsourced maintenance vendors.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, evaluate, and resolve server/network hardware and software connectivity/performance issues.
• Maintain system integrity/security & participate in scheduled cybersecurity audits of systems.
• Assist with the overall functioning of the Help Desk in the absence of the Help Desk Supervisor and Director.
• Provide training/hand‑off for alert handling procedures to Help Desk via Service Desk Ticketing system.
• Manage all backup (Retrospect/AWS S3/AWS console) and file recovery systems/software, initiating major/minor restores/recovery as required, and evaluate disaster recovery planning/implementation.
• Provide second‑ and third‑level Help Desk support via Service Desk Ticketing system.
• Design, develop, test, evaluate, implement and plan future IP/VoIP/SAN/AD server/network infrastructure & enhancements, while coordinating with vendors.
• Prepare and maintain all server/network system‑related documentation.
• Responsible for overall server/network hardware and software procurement.
• Order server/network supplies necessary and complete expense requisitions.

Compensation & Terms

The expected salary range for this position is $84,000 to $105,000 (target hiring range $90,000 – $100,000). Final salary placement may exceed this range in accordance with the school’s compensation structure.

Benefits

• Health, vision, and dental care.
• Life insurance, AD&D insurance, and long‑term disability insurance.
• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP).
• Mental health & wellbeing resources.
• Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan / RRSP program with up to 5% employer match.
• A healthy lunch program during the school year.
• On‑site fitness facilities.
• On‑site parking.
• Time off during Winter Break and March Break.
• Summer hours and extra long weekends in line with the school calendar.

Note: Job responsibilities may be adjusted from time to time to align with the needs of our students and the school. Any such changes will be made reasonably, and every effort will be made to provide advance notice and appropriate training where required.

SMLS is an equal‑opportunity employer and we accommodate any needs under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment within our community. Please contact Human Resources with any requirements or questions.