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What does a Cisco network engineer do?

Cisco network engineers design, implement, and maintain Cisco-based network infrastructure. They ensure secure, high-performance, scalable connectivity to support an organisation’s IT infrastructure.

The primary role of Cisco network engineers is to ensure the efficient and secure operation of a company’s network infrastructure. These professionals handle routers, switches, firewalls, and VPNs while managing LAN, WAN, and wireless networks. Their work also includes troubleshooting network issues, optimising performance, and securing communication protocols.

Cisco Network Engineers often work with CCNA/CCNP-certified networking technologies and ensure compliance with network security best practices. In industries such as telecommunications, finance, healthcare, and enterprise IT, they play a vital role in ensuring seamless connectivity, minimal downtime, and robust cybersecurity defences.

Note that while a Cisco network engineer designs and implements network solutions, a network administrator focuses more on the day-to-day operations and maintenance of the IT network. Similarly, while systems engineers work in a broader range of IT infrastructure, including servers and storage, Cisco network engineers specialise in networking.

Job Description: Template

We’re seeking a highly skilled Cisco network engineer to join our team at [Company X].

In this role, you will configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Cisco-based network infrastructures. You will also ensure the availability, security, and efficiency of network operations in the organisation. The ideal candidate has strong expertise in Cisco networking technologies, including routing, switching, firewalls, and VPN configurations. If you have a passion for network operations and security, we encourage you to apply.

We offer an attractive remuneration package with a collaborative work environment, professional growth opportunities, and employee benefits like health insurance, flexible work arrangements, and continuous learning programs.

Objectives of the role:

  • Designing, implementing, and managing Cisco network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points.
  • Configuring and maintaining Cisco ASA, Firepower, or Meraki firewalls for network security.
  • Performing network monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance tuning to ensure high availability.
  • Implementing and managing WAN/LAN, VLANs, quality of service (QoS), and VPN connectivity.
  • Configuring and maintaining Cisco IOS, NX-OS, and SD-WAN technologies.
  • Troubleshooting and resolving network outages, security breaches, and connectivity issues.
  • Maintaining network security policies by implementing firewalls, IDS/IPS, and access control lists (ACLs).
  • Automating network configurations and management tasks using Python, Ansible, or Cisco DNA Centre.
  • Performing disaster recovery planning, network documentation, and compliance audits.

Your tasks:

  • Ensure 24/7 network uptime and monitor performance using tools like SolarWinds, Wireshark, or Cisco Prime.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot Cisco ASA firewalls, VPN concentrators, and security appliances.
  • Optimise Quality of Service (QoS) settings to enhance VoIP and video traffic.
  • Identify and resolve network bottlenecks, packet loss, and connectivity issues.
  • Manage network security configurations, including VPN tunnels, firewalls, and IPS rules.
  • Implement redundancy mechanisms like HSRP, VRRP, or BGP routing protocols.
  • Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to enforce security best practices.
  • Maintain network documentation, including topology diagrams and security protocols.
  • Support network migration, infrastructure upgrades, and cloud networking (AWS, Azure, or Cisco Meraki).
  • Work with IT teams to ensure network scalability, compliance, and performance.

Required skills and qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
  • 3-5 years of experience as a Cisco Network Engineer or a similar role in network administration, Cisco networking, or IT infrastructure.
  • Strong knowledge of networking technologies with certifications, like Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP). 
  • Hands-on experience with Cisco switches (Catalyst, Nexus), routers (ISR, ASR), and firewalls (ASA, Firepower, Meraki).
  • Working expertise in network and routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, STP, HSRP, VRRP, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP).
  • Experience with LAN/WAN architectures, MPLS, VPNs, and network security best practices.
  • Ability to troubleshoot network issues using Wireshark, packet captures, and CLI tools.
  • Familiarity with Cisco DNA Center, SD-WAN, software-defined networking (SDN), and network virtualisation.
  • Knowledge of firewalls, security appliances, and network access control (NAC).
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to handle high-pressure network incidents and troubleshoot efficiently.
  • Excellent communication skills to work with cross-functional teams.

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Experience with cloud networking solutions (AWS VPC, Azure Virtual Network, Google Cloud Interconnect).
  • Strong scripting skills and knowledge of network automation tools like Python, Bash, Ansible, or PowerShell.
  • Familiarity with VoIP, SIP, Cisco Unified Communication, and network integration for telephony systems.
  • Experience with multi-vendor network environments and data centre networking.
  • Previous experience working in enterprise or data centre environments.