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Manager, Network Engineering

Company:
Green Thumb Industries
Location:
Chicago, IL
Posted:
April 29, 2025
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Description:

The Role

We are a leading vertically integrated cannabis company, operating across multiple states with an expansive retail footprint and state-of-the-art cultivation and processing facilities. Our commitment to quality, compliance, and innovation drives our continued growth in a highly regulated and competitive industry. We are seeking a skilled and experienced Network Manager to join our IT team and support our rapidly scaling infrastructure.

The Network Manager is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, security, and maintenance of the company’s enterprise-wide network infrastructure across retail locations, production facilities, and corporate offices. This role will ensure optimal performance, reliability, and compliance of the network systems to support mission-critical business operations and strict regulatory requirements specific to the cannabis industry.

Responsibilities

Network Architecture & Operations

Design, deploy, and maintain secure and scalable LAN/WAN infrastructure across multiple sites.

Oversee installation, configuration, and optimization of network hardware and software (e.g., routers, switches, firewalls, wireless controllers).

Monitor network performance and availability and implement improvements as necessary.

Security & Compliance

Ensure networks comply with state and federal cannabis industry regulations, including data privacy and security mandates.

Manage network security infrastructure, including firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and endpoint protection.

Conduct regular audits, vulnerability assessments, and patch management.

Project & Vendor Management

Lead network-related projects such as site expansions, M&A integrations, and infrastructure upgrades.

Manage relationships with ISPs, cloud providers, and hardware/software vendors.

Develop and enforce service level agreements (SLAs) with external partners.

Team Leadership

Manage a team of network engineers and technicians, including hiring, training, and performance management.

Provide technical mentorship and escalation support for troubleshooting complex issues.

Disaster Recovery & Documentation

Develop and maintain network disaster recovery and business continuity plans.

Maintain accurate and up-to-date network diagrams, inventories, and SOPs.

Qualifications

Required:

Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, or a related field.

7+ years of experience in network administration, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.

Experience with Cisco, Meraki, Fortinet, or similar enterprise network platforms.

Strong understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN, VLAN, and routing protocols.

Proven experience managing networks in multi-site environments.

Expertise in network security best practices and tools.

Preferred:

Experience in cannabis, pharmaceutical, or other regulated industries.

Certifications such as CCNP, CCNA, CompTIA Network+, or CISSP.

Familiarity with ITIL practices and cloud networking (e.g., AWS, Azure).

Competencies

Strategic thinking and analytical problem-solving

Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Strong project management and organizational skills

High attention to detail and a proactive mindset

Physical Requirements

Ability to travel to retail and production facilities (10–20% travel expected).

Must be able to lift 25 pounds occasionally.

May require after-hours or on-call availability during emergencies.

Additional Requirements

Must pass any and all required background checks

Must be and remain compliant with all legal or company regulations for working in the industry

Must possess valid driver’s license

Must be a minimum of 21 years of age

Must be approved by state badging agency to work in cannabis industry

The pay range is competitive and based on experience, qualifications, and/or location of the role. Positions may be eligible for a discretionary annual incentive program driven by organization and individual performance.

Green Thumb Pay Range

$140,000—$160,000 USD

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