W2 Position: Sr. Network Engineer - Houston, TX (Need Locals)

Job Title: Sr. Network Engineer

Location: Houston, Tx (On-Site)

Duration: Long Term

Job Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Sr. Network Engineer to design, implement, and maintain mission-critical networking infrastructure supporting our oil and gas operations. The ideal candidate will possess strong expertise in RF backhaul technologies, enterprise networking, cloud (Azure) networking, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), and robust experience with both Fortinet and Cisco IOS platforms. You will ensure high availability, security, and performance for both office and field networking environments, often in remote or challenging locations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, deploy, and support enterprise network solutions across diverse operational environments (offices, remote field sites, drilling rigs, processing plants, etc.).
• Implement and maintain RF backhaul networks (point-to-point/multipoint microwave, licensed/unlicensed links) ensuring reliable connectivity in remote oilfield locations.
• Configure, manage, and troubleshoot Fortinet security appliances (firewalls, VPNs, SD-WAN, etc.) and Cisco IOS-based network devices (routers, switches, wireless controllers).
• Plan and deploy Azure networking solutions: VPN gateways, virtual networks, ExpressRoute, network security groups, and hybrid cloud architectures.
• Develop and maintain Infrastructure as Code (IaC) scripts for network and cloud resource provisioning using Terraform and related tools.
• Maintain and optimize LANs/WANs, wireless networks, and remote access infrastructure to support industrial IoT, operational technology, and business applications.
• Collaborate with SCADA, IT, and OT teams, ensuring secure segmentation between corporate and critical infrastructure networks.
• Monitor network performance and perform proactive maintenance, troubleshooting issues to resolution (including after-hours emergencies, if needed).
• Document network designs, configurations, and policies for auditing, handover, and regulatory compliance.
• Implement network security best practices to protect sensitive operational data and prevent cyber threats.
• Coordinate with vendors, service providers, and field technicians for deployment and support of network services.
• Participate in network architecture reviews, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 4 7 years experience as a network engineer, preferably in the oil & gas sector or comparable industrial environment.
• Proven expertise in RF backhauls technologies: path alignment, link budgeting, interference analysis, installation, and maintenance.
• In-depth experience with Cisco IOS routers/switches (configuration, troubleshooting, upgrades).
• Hands-on experience with Fortinet security appliances (FortiGate firewalls, FortiManager, FortiAnalyzer, VPN configuration).
• Azure networking experience, including vNets, VPN/ExpressRoute, security/network policies, and hybrid solutions.
• Experience with Infrastructure as Code, specifically Terraform for networking and cloud automation; experience with other IaC tools (such as Ansible, ARM templates, or CloudFormation) is a plus.
• Strong grasp of routing (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), VLANs, QoS, MPLS, NAT, and VPN technologies.
• Solid understanding of enterprise networking and security concepts: 802.1x, wireless (Wi-Fi), IP addressing, subnetting, DNS/DHCP, firewalls, IDS/IPS.
• Ability to work safely and independently in remote or challenging locations (occasional field travel required).

Preferred:

• Industry certifications (ex: CCNP, Fortinet NSE, Azure Network Engineer, Terraform, HashiCorp Certified: Terraform Associate).
• Prior experience with industrial networking, SCADA, and OT environments.
• Experience with point-to-multipoint or LTE/private 5G/CBRS technologies for oilfield connectivity.
• Experience with network automation and monitoring tools (ex: Auvik, SolarWinds, PRTG, etc.).

Key Skills:

• RF Backhaul (microwave, wireless links)
• Cisco IOS (routing, switching)
• Fortinet Security (firewall, VPN, SD-WAN)
• Azure Cloud Networking
• Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, ARM, etc.)
• LAN/WAN/Wi-Fi design & troubleshooting
• Network security best practices
• Documentation & compliance
• Analytical & troubleshooting skills
• Communication & teamwork

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Primarily office-based with occasional travel to field offices and operational sites as needed.
• Potential exposure to remote and high-risk environments, requiring adherence to safety protocols.
• May involve walking, climbing, bending, or handling equipment during site visits.
• Possible exposure to varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain) while on-site at the field offices.
• Availability for emergency response and incident management, including after-hours support when required.