Network Engineer

Acara Solutions is looking for a Network Engineer to work with our partner onsite out in Tolleson, AZ who specializes in manufacturing.

Here is what you will get:

Pay Rate: $65/hr

Duration: 6 month Contract, possibility of getting extended.

Here is what you will do:

Summary

We are seeking a skilled Network Engineer to manage and optimize the IT infrastructure supporting our solar panel manufacturing operations. This role is critical to ensuring high availability, security, and performance of the company's network systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with Aruba and Fortinet network equipment, as well as a strong understanding of industrial networking in energy or manufacturing environments.

Duties and Responsibilities

Design, implement, and maintain robust wired and wireless network infrastructure, including switches, firewalls, access points, and VPN solutions, with a focus on Aruba and Fortinet systems

Ensure network performance, availability, and security through proactive monitoring, system tuning, and capacity planning.

Lead or support the deployment and configuration of Aruba wireless networks, including ClearPass, AirWave, and related solutions.

Manage Fortinet firewall policies, VPN tunnels, and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to ensure secure connectivity across corporate and production environments.

Collaborate with the energy systems and operations teams to ensure reliable connectivity for energy monitoring platforms and industrial control systems (ICS).

Develop and maintain network documentation, including topologies, configurations, and change management records.

Conduct root cause analysis of network issues, coordinate incident responses, and implement long-term solutions to avoid recurrence.

Participate in annual IT budgeting and forecasting for network infrastructure and associated services.

Ensure compliance with cybersecurity standards and contribute to internal audits and government inspections related to data and network security.

Analyze network traffic and logs to identify performance bottlenecks, security risks, or inefficiencies.

Coordinate and track monthly and annual training plans for IT/network staff, including certification and compliance requirements.

Oversee network asset management, including hardware inventory, lifecycle management, and procurement of spare parts and consumables.

Required Skills / Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Network Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

Hands-on experience with Aruba and Fortinet network equipment (required).

Strong understanding of network security best practices, VLANs, routing, VPNs, and wireless technologies.

Experience supporting networks in manufacturing or industrial environments, preferably in the renewable energy sector.

Proficient in network monitoring tools, SNMP, syslog analysis, and log correlation platforms.

Effective bilingual communication skills in English and Mandarin, both written and verbal.

Familiarity with SCADA systems, industrial Ethernet, or OT networks is a plus.

Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.

Understanding of regulatory compliance related to IT infrastructure, energy systems, or cybersecurity.