Careers at Virginia Tech

The Network Engineer Assistant contributes to the installation, configuration, administration, and support of Virginia Tech residential and campus networks and associated services. Virginia Tech networks utilize multiple vendor routing, switching, and wireless technologies. The campus core and border consist of a sophisticated architecture that serves as the high-speed backbone for network services that meet the operational, academic, social, and research needs of over 33,000 students and 8,000 faculty/staff. The position reports to a Network Engineering and Operations (NEO) manager and works closely with members of NEO and often interacts with other programs within Virginia Tech’s Network Infrastructure and Services (NI&S) and other units of the University. The Network Engineer Assistant is expected to:
● Assist in day-to-day operational activities necessary for deployment, maintenance, and
management of networking systems and technologies, including equipment installation,
configuration changes, and software updates.
● Assist with technical support: diagnosing, troubleshooting, and resolving network issues
related to routing, switching, wireless, and other network services.
● Utilize network monitoring applications and tools to monitor network performance and
other metrics.
● Contribute to projects and tasks as directed.

Please note: Sponsorship is not available for this position. 

● Limited experience as a network analyst or network engineer
● Basic knowledge of fundamental LAN/WAN technologies and protocols
● Self-motivated with the ability to work independently under close supervision, as well as
the ability to work in a team environment
● Working knowledge of network management applications and protocols
● Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose routine problems in areas of proficiency using
established procedures, paying close attention to detail, and to communicate effectively
and professionally with customers.
● Strong listening, verbal, and written communication skills
● Willing and able to learn new technologies and skillsets, to accept increasingly difficult
assignments, and to grow professionally

● Demonstrated domain knowledge of network technologies through one or more of the
following certifications: CompTIA Network+, CCNA, JNCIA, or equivalent
● Familiarity with common network scripting languages such as Python, Perl, and Ansible.

4

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Regular

$16.00 per hour

up to 29

9/26/25

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.